Can an Eames Lounge Chair be Reupholstered?

The Eames Lounge Chair is one of the most iconic pieces of mid-century modern design—valued for its sleek silhouette, luxurious materials, and ergonomic comfort. But even the best-made furniture doesn’t last forever without a little TLC. Over time, you might notice cracking leather, sagging cushions, or faded fabric. That’s when many owners start asking: Can you reupholster an Eames Lounge Chair?

The answer is a definitive yes—and reupholstering is one of the best ways to preserve the chair’s legacy while restoring its beauty and comfort.

Why Reupholster an Eames Lounge Chair?

Reupholstering isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about preserving an investment. The Eames Lounge Chair was designed to last, and its modular construction makes it uniquely well-suited for restoration. Instead of replacing the entire chair, reupholstery lets you retain the original shell and structure while giving the cushions and leather a fresh start.

Whether you’re restoring a vintage model or refreshing a more recent one, reupholstering your Eames Lounge Chair can extend its life by decades.

What Makes Reupholstery Possible?

One of the most thoughtful aspects of the Eames Lounge Chair’s design is its modularity. The cushions are individually constructed and affixed using zippers, making them relatively simple to remove and replace. That’s good news for owners because it means both the leather (or fabric) and the foam padding inside can be updated without compromising the chair’s original form.

Just keep in mind that authentic Herman Miller and Vitra models are easier to reupholster than many replicas, which may be glued or stapled together without replaceable parts.

Choosing the Right Upholstery Materials

When you reupholster an Eames Lounge Chair, the material you choose matters. Most original chairs used high-quality aniline leather, which is known for its softness and natural patina. Replacing it with similar material maintains the chair’s original look and feel.

There’s also a growing demand for plant-based or vegan leathers like Banbū, which offer a more sustainable option without sacrificing quality. Whatever direction you go in, the goal should be to respect the chair’s timeless design and comfort.

How Much Does It Cost to Reupholster an Eames Lounge Chair?

Costs can vary depending on condition and customization.

Pricing can increase if structural work, shock mount replacement, or veneer repair is needed. But even at the higher end, it’s often more affordable—and more sustainable—than buying a new chair of similar quality.

Trust Olek Restoration with Your Eames Lounge Chair

At Olek Restoration, we specialize in the meticulous reupholstery and restoration of Eames Lounge Chairs. Our skilled craftsmen understand the nuances of mid-century design and treat every chair with the care and precision it deserves.

We offer:

• Authentic material sourcing (including aniline and eco-conscious leathers)

• Structural repairs and refinishing

• Cushion and foam replacement

• Color matching and patina preservation

No shortcuts. No guesswork. Just careful, expert restoration that respects the integrity of your chair.

Contact Olek today for a free no-obligation quote.