Carlo Hauner and Martin Eisler: Pioneers of Brazilian Modernist Design
Carlo Hauner and Martin Eisler were two of the most influential figures in the development of Brazilian modernist design during the mid-20th century. Their collaborative efforts and individual contributions left an indelible mark on the country’s design landscape, shaping the way we perceive and appreciate the unique aesthetic that emerged from Brazil during this pivotal era.
Born in 1927 in São Paulo, Carlo Hauner was a visionary designer who possessed a keen eye for form, function, and materiality. After studying architecture at the Mackenzie University, Hauner’s passion for design led him to co-found the renowned furniture company Forma in 1948, which would become a driving force in the Brazilian modernist movement.
Hauner’s design philosophy was rooted in a deep understanding of the local context, drawing inspiration from the rich cultural heritage and natural resources of Brazil. He sought to create pieces that were not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical and responsive to the needs of the modern Brazilian lifestyle. His furniture designs, characterized by clean lines, organic shapes, and the innovative use of materials such as jacaranda wood and woven cane, quickly gained recognition both within Brazil and on the international stage.
Alongside Hauner, Martin Eisler, an Austrian-born designer who had settled in Brazil in the 1940s, emerged as a key figure in the country’s design revolution. Eisler’s background in architecture and his exposure to the European modernist movement informed his approach to design, which he seamlessly blended with the distinct Brazilian aesthetic.
Eisler’s collaborations with Hauner at Forma resulted in some of the most iconic pieces of Brazilian modernist design, including the Costela armchair and the Reversível sofa. These designs, characterized by their sculptural forms, organic curves, and the integration of local materials, became emblematic of the Brazilian modernist style and were widely celebrated both at home and abroad.
Beyond their work at Forma, Hauner and Eisler also made significant contributions to the broader design landscape in Brazil. They were instrumental in the establishment of the Museu de Arte de São Paulo (MASP), one of the country’s most prestigious art institutions, where they curated groundbreaking exhibitions that showcased the work of Brazilian designers and artists.
Hauner and Eisler’s impact extended beyond the realm of furniture design, as they also made significant contributions to the fields of architecture and interior design. Their collaborative projects, such as the design of the iconic Palácio Quitandinha in Petrópolis, demonstrated their ability to seamlessly integrate their modernist aesthetic into large-scale architectural endeavors.
The legacy of Carlo Hauner and Martin Eisler continues to resonate in the design world today. Their pioneering work not only elevated the status of Brazilian design on the global stage but also inspired generations of designers to come. By championing the use of local materials, embracing the country’s rich cultural heritage, and pushing the boundaries of modernist design, Hauner and Eisler paved the way for a distinctly Brazilian design aesthetic that continues to captivate and inspire design enthusiasts around the world.
