Photography and Architecture in Charlotte Perriand (Part 2) : Photography as ‘Equipment’

This paper aims to examine the use of photography in the work of decorator and architect Charlotte Perriand (1903–1999), with a particular focus on the evolution of photographic techniques in interior decoration(mainly tables and cabinets). Although Le Corbusier was the originator of both photographic walls and furniture, Perriand developed these techniques independently and realized them in interior decoration. A significant element is the tapestry pattern of children's drawings hung on the wall. This was realized in an exhibition in 1941, and the transfer technique evolved into cloud-like shelves/partition walls. For Perriand, these ‘equipments’ were ‘architectural acts.’