In the world of design, Eric Pfeiffer, 35, is a rising star. His new Oakland, California–based company, Pfeiffer Design Lab, creates contemporary furniture, housewares, toys, and lighting that build upon the work of Charles and Ray Eames, Alvar Aalto, and other icons. Sunset met with Eric and his wife, Melissa, a graphic designer, and their two young children at their home — which doubles as Eric's design laboratory — to learn about how he works.
Where are you from?
I'm from Los Gatos, California. I grew up surfing and windsurfing, eventually semiprofessionally, in Santa Cruz and on the San Mateo coast off Waddell Creek.
What got you started making things?
When I was in eighth grade, I designed and built a snowboard because I couldn't afford to buy one. My father helped me. It had layers of veneer and fiberglass, and I used windsurfing foot straps.
Why do you design?
Most of my pieces grow out of needs that I identify. For example, I designed the Perch lounge (a chair) out of a need for space-saving furniture. It's multifunctional — both seating and storage. I think almost every piece of furniture has to do double-duty.
What inspires or influences you?
California's laid-back, whimsical but practical approach — the casualness that makes it accessible — is important to me. Growing up surfing and wave-sailing is part of it. And the spirit of innovation that appears in Eames chairs, the aerospace industry, and the Silicon Valley.
What do you look for in a chair?
I look for longevity: Will the chair hold up? I look at the material and the construction. In 5 or 10 years, will it still be good? When we bought our Jasper Morrison Air Chairs for the dining table, we knew our children would be spilling food — the chairs had to be easy to clean, and if they got a little damaged, it wouldn't be a big issue.
What are you working on now?
A new compact desk and a variety of organically shaped kids' products, including a chair inspired by a horse and a table inspired by an elephant.
What does design mean to you?
For me, it's all about making beauty out of everyday objects, so that the little moments in your life — when you are doing ordinary things like using a can opener — have extra meaning.
INFO: For more about Pfeiffer Design Lab and Eric Pfeiffer furniture, call 415/350-1882. To find some of Eric's designs, or to check out children's furniture and fashion, visit www.modernseed.com, a company founded by Melissa Pfeiffer.
Eric's inspirations...
Eric Pfeiffer names a few of his favorite well-designed objects and tells why he likes them.
...and his own designs
All of Eric's furniture pieces — whether plastic, metal, or bent plywood — are multifunctional and easily portable.
