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Expanding Operations
In 1956, the Basel-based company relocated to a newly built office and factory in the suburb of Birsfelden. To support the growth of production in Weil am Rhein, Erika Fehlbaum purchased adjoining plots from relatives and neighbouring landowners, transforming the site into Vitra’s principal manufacturing hub. Beginning in the early 1980s, the area gradually evolved into what is now known as the Vitra Campus – a destination that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
Willi Fehlbaum Meets Ray & Charles Eames
During a visit to New York in 1953, Willi Fehlbaum discovered a chair designed by the American duo Charles and Ray Eames. Captivated by its originality, he was eager to bring this ground breaking design to Europe. He soon reached out to the Eameses, and negotiated with Herman Miller so that Vitra could produce their furniture for the European market. Over time, Fehlbaum’s professional connection with Ray and Charles blossomed into a close friendship, creating a lasting bond between their families.
A Partnership with Herman Miller
From 1957 onwards, Vitra’s agreement with Herman Miller meant that they could manufacture products from Herman Miller’s collaborations with designers as an official licensee for continental Europe. This didn’t just include the works of Ray & Charles Eames, but George Nelson and Alexander Girard.
Success of this initiative lead to Herman Miller and Vitra creating a joint venture in Herman Miller AG; a partnership which lasted for over two decades.
Although the partnership was dissolved in 1984, Herman Miller agreed for Vitra to continue production of their designers’ furniture for distribution across Europe and the Middle-East moving forwards. Herman Miller would continue production for the US market, with Vitra handling these territories ‘across the pond’.
In addition to Eames, Nelson and Girard, this includes ranges designed by Isamu Noguchi, Jean Prouve, Jasper Morrison, Verner Panton and Konstantin Grcic.
Vitra Campus & Vitra Design Museum
The Vitra Campus, located in Weil am Rhein, Germany, is an architectural and cultural landmark that showcases the intersection of design, innovation, and creativity. Originally established as Vitra’s main production site, the campus evolved from a manufacturing facility into a world-renowned destination for architecture and design enthusiasts. Following a devastating fire in 1981, the site was rebuilt with a visionary approach, inviting leading architects from around the world to contribute to its transformation. Today, the campus features iconic buildings by celebrated architects such as Frank Gehry, Zaha Hadid, Tadao Ando, Herzog & de Meuron, and Álvaro Siza.
Beyond its striking architecture, the Vitra Campus serves as a hub for design research, education, and inspiration. It houses the Vitra Design Museum, one of the most important design museums globally, alongside exhibitions, workshops, and installations that explore the past, present, and future of design. The campus’s open and inviting landscape encourages exploration, blending art, architecture, and industry in a unique environment. Attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, the Vitra Campus stands as a testament to Vitra’s enduring commitment to creativity, collaboration, and the power of design to shape how people live, work, and connect with the world.
Vitra Products from Office Chairs UK
Explore the ranges produced by Vitra below:
