Emeco
ActiveOverview
Emeco is a furniture manufacturer specializing in durable chairs, stools, tables, and sofas designed for indoor and outdoor use. It originated from producing the Navy Chair for the US Navy during World War II and now collaborates with architects like Philippe Starck, Norman Foster, and Frank Gehry. The company emphasizes sustainability, with about 90% of products made from recycled materials, primarily aluminum, and maintains production in the United States.
History
Emeco was founded in 1944 by Wilton Carlyle Dinges as the Electrical Machine and Equipment Company in Hanover, Pennsylvania, initially commissioned to produce a durable chair for the US Navy. The Emeco 1006 Navy Chair has remained in continuous production since the 1940s. In later years, under family ownership for three generations, the company expanded into designer furniture while preserving its American manufacturing base. Gregg Buchbinder played a key role in revitalizing the brand by entering new markets and enhancing sustainability focus.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Navy Chairs | Iconic durable aluminum seating | $500 - $1,200 |
| Designer Chairs | Architect collaborations | $800 - $2,500 |
| Stools | Indoor/outdoor bar seating | $400 - $1,000 |
| Tables | Matching durable furniture | $1,000 - $3,000 |
| Sofas | Sustainable lounge seating | $2,000 - $5,000 |
Manufacturing
All products are manufactured in-house at the company's factory in Hanover, Pennsylvania, USA, since 1944. The facility uses recycled aluminum and focuses on durable, sustainable production methods.
Notable Products
- Emeco 1006 Navy Chair - Aluminum chair in continuous production since 1940s, designed to withstand naval conditions.
- Philippe Starck Chair - Modern reinterpretation by noted designer using Emeco's aluminum expertise.
- Norman Foster Stool - Architect-designed stool for indoor/outdoor use.
- Frank Gehry Table - Collaborative furniture piece emphasizing durability and design.
Reputation
Emeco is respected among design professionals for its heritage Navy Chair and collaborations with renowned architects, valued for exceptional durability and American-made quality. Enthusiasts praise its sustainability practices and use of recycled materials. Some note higher price points compared to mass-produced alternatives, though justified by longevity and craftsmanship.