Charles & Ray Eames Foundation presents groundbreaking research on the Eameses' human-centered vision for prefabricated homes–now finally being realized as a modular architectural system.

Charles and Ray Eames are best known for their furniture, their films and the Eames House in Pacific Palisades. An icon of Modern architecture open to all, Case Study House No. 8, its contents, and the surrounding landscape, have been preserved much as they were when Charles and Ray lived there.

Yet between 1945 and the mid-1950s, the pair pursued an ambitious investigation into prefabricated, modular architecture. From a proposed house for filmmaker Billy Wilder to experiments in low-cost timber construction, they developed eight residential projects. Together, their residential projects explored how Modern homes could be economical, adaptable and generous frameworks for living.

Introducing the book The Eames Houses (Phaidon, 2026), Eckart Maise and Eames Demetrios will share archival drawings, photographs, correspondence and newly made models that bring the lesser-known projects into view while also offering new insights into the iconic ones.

With only three of the houses built, what became of the Eameses’ larger ambition? That question has taken on new urgency through a partnership with Spanish manufacturer Kettal. Maise and Demetrios will introduce the Eames Pavilion System and reveal how ideas developed more than 75 years ago are finally being translated into an adaptable building system available to all.

Eckart Maise is the author of The Eames Houses and President of the Charles & Ray Eames Foundation. Eames Demetrios is a grandson of Charles and Ray Eames and Director of the Eames Office.

A book signing will follow the presentation. Visit eamesfoundation.org and follow @EamesFoundation.

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Photo Credits: © Eames Office, LLC, 2026, Phaidon

Location & Attendee Information

  • What are the appropriate ages for this activity?Person Ages 13 and older
  • Are pets, animals, or service animals permitted?Dog on a leash No pets, service animals permitted
  • Are food and drinks permitted?Food and drink No outside food or drinks
  • What are the mobility considerations for this activity?Person walking Seated activity
  • What type of parking is available?Car Parking & handicap parking available
  • Are restrooms available?Restroom sign Restrooms available
  • Is this an indoor or outdoor activity?Sun Indoor activity
  • What is the policy regarding smoking?Cigarette with smoke No smoking or e-cigarettes
  • What type of ADA accessibility is available?Wheelchair Wheelchair accessible
The organizer of this event is: Modernism Week Annenberg Theater Activity

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