German industrial designer Dieter Rams is revered for the pared-down, intuitive electronics and consumer goods he created for Braun — where he worked from 1955 to 1997, most of that time as chief design officer — and his timeless furniture for Vitsœ, a company with which he continues to collaborate today.
Less well known are Rams’s longstanding focus on sustainability and uneasy relationship with contemporary technology, even as Silicon Valley designers like Apple’s Jonathan Ive follow in his rational footsteps.
During Germany’s postwar rebuilding period, Rams and his team of designers at Braun, inspired by the Bauhaus and the Ulm School of Design, focused on extreme simplicity and usability while conceiving products with a modern, forward-looking appearance.
Among Rams’s most iconic designs is the SK 4 phonograph and radio, created in 1956, which had a compact white metal case topped by a revolutionary-at-the-time transparent Plexiglas lid that revealed simple gray controls inside (it was nicknamed Snow White’s Coffin). But it is the T3 portable radio, from 1958, that gets design aficionados most excited today: A white rectangular box with a perforated square for the speaker and a circular-dial control, it bears an unmistakable resemblance to Apple’s original iPod. (Many people also note that the iPhone’s calculator app looks remarkably similar to the Braun ET 66 calculator, with its circular color-coded buttons.)
In the late 1970s, Rams laid out his widely studied 10 principles for good design: It is innovative, makes a product useful, is aesthetic, makes a product understandable, is unobtrusive, is honest, is long lasting, is thorough down to the last detail, is environmentally friendly and is as little design as possible.
One of Rams’s principles that hasn’t translated to our contemporary era is his emphasis on longevity. “The time of thoughtless design and thoughtless consumption is over,” he said in 1976, stressing the need to conserve natural resources — even as he was busy designing plastic products.
Rams has also expressed reservations about how electronics have evolved in recent decades from tools for improving life to time-sucking obsessions. “Every time he crosses a street and sees people glued to their phones, he just can’t conceive of how we got to this point,” says filmmaker Gary Hustwit, whose feature-length documentary on Rams debuted in 2018. “I think he’s a little bit saddened by all this work they did in the fifties and sixties, which had a very idealistic point of view, being a stepping stone to where we are now, and the current lust for technology.”
If digital devices sometimes seem to be making life more complicated, Rams’s precept remains the same as always: “Back to purity, back to simplicity.”
Find vintage Dieter Rams furniture on 1stDibs.
606 Shelving system, Dieter Rams for Vitsœ
By Vitsoe, Dieter Rams
Located in Neuss, NW
Modular 606 shelving system by Dieter Rams for Vitsœ from the 1960s. High-quality construction consisting of two aluminium E Tracks, four shelves and one container with up and over d...
Aluminum
$3,007
606 by Rams for DePadova
By Dieter Rams, DePadova 1
Located in Milano, IT
Designed by the iconic Dieter Rams in 1960 and produced under license by De Padova, this wall-mounted 606 Universal Shelving System drawer unit is a paragon of functionalist purity. ...
Aluminum
Architectural Italian Wall-Mounted Shelving System
Located in North Miami, FL
Rare Industrial Italian wall-mounted library or shelving system that is completely customize-able to your design needs. A long shelving unit fitted with seven powder coated metal posts...
Metal, Brass
Tomado modular shelving system Teak 1950s Holland
By Adriaan Dekker, Tomado
Located in Den Haag, NL
Tomado wall shelf from the 50s, it is made up of 2 black metal uprights dyed in the mass and stamped + 3 teak wood shelves with fixings included. The whole is in very good condition ...
Teak
Parchment Nightstands by Aldo Tura for Tura Milano
By Aldo Tura
Located in Conversano, IT
Experience the refinement of Italian design with this extraordinary pair of parchment nightstands, the result of Aldo Tura's brilliant creativity for the acclaimed company Tura Milan...
Wood, Parchment Paper
Alanda Dresser by Paolo Piva for B&B Italia
By B&B Italia, Paolo Piva
Located in Conversano, IT
Discover a true design masterpiece - the rare "Alanda" dresser by Paolo Piva for B&B Italia. This exclusive chest of drawers showcases a unique postmodern design, featuring four spacious drawers and two slimmer ones at the top, supported by elegant twin feet similar to those found on the sofas and beds from the same series. Crafted with white laminate over a wooden base and accented with black steel details, this piece is a true work of art for design enthusiasts. Currently a one-of-a-kind item on the market, this dresser is extremely rare and collectible, due to its high original production cost. In excellent condition, it shows only minor signs of wear consistent with age, as shown in the photographs. Matching nightstands and a queen-size bed from the same series are available upon request to complete the set. Bring a distinctive touch to your space with this extraordinary Alanda dresser. Product Name: "Alanda" Dresser by Paolo Piva for B&B Italia Designer: Paolo Piva Year of Design: 1970 Style: Postmodern Main Materials: White laminate, wood, black steel Distinctive Design: The "Alanda" dresser is defined by its postmodern silhouette, slender shape, and elegant twin feet. This design is a true icon of its era. Typical Dimensions: 170 x 60 x 68 cm Comfort: Designed with functionality in mind, the "Alanda" dresser offers generous and practical storage space. Typical Use: Ideal for organizing personal belongings with style in a variety of interiors, from living rooms to bedrooms. Design Icon: The "Alanda" dresser is considered a postmodern design icon and a major creation by Paolo Piva for B&B Italia. Versatility: Its sleek design allows it to adapt to different rooms and décor styles, adding elegance wherever placed. Current Condition: A unique piece on today's market, showcasing extreme rarity and collectibility. In excellent condition, with only light signs of wear. Additional Notes: Matching nightstands and a queen-size bed from the same series are available upon request to create a cohesive and refined interior. Paolo Piva (1933-2017) was a renowned Italian architect and designer, celebrated for his influential contributions to industrial design and architecture. Career Beginnings: Born in Adria, Italy, Piva studied architecture at the Academy of Fine Arts in Venice. His design career began in the 1960s and flourished through the 1970s. Iconic Designs: Paolo Piva gained fame for his work in furniture design, particularly for his collaboration with B&B Italia. One of his most iconic designs is the "Alanda" dresser, now considered a symbol of postmodern design. Distinctive Style: His work is characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes, and a strong sense of minimalist aesthetics-elements that helped shape the language of contemporary Italian design. Successful Collaborations: In addition to B&B Italia, Piva worked with several prestigious furniture and design companies, creating pieces that have become modern design classics. Lasting Influence: His approach to balancing aesthetics and functionality continues to influence contemporary design. Piva's works are highly desirable among collectors and design lovers alike. Architectural Work: Beyond furniture, Piva also worked in architecture, designing both residential and commercial buildings around the world. Prestige and Recognition: He received numerous accolades and honors throughout his career, highlighting his importance in the design world. Paolo Piva remains a key figure in Italian design history. His legacy is rich in innovation and elegance, and his creations continue to be internationally recognized and appreciated. B&B Italia, short for B&B Italia S.p.A., is a prestigious Italian furniture manufacturer known for producing high-quality, contemporary design pieces. History and Foundation: Founded in 1966 by Piero Ambrogio Busnelli in Novedrate, Lombardy, B&B Italia was created with the goal of producing cutting-edge designer furniture for the international market. Collaboration with Renowned Designers: B&B Italia is known for its partnerships with some of the world's most acclaimed designers, including Antonio Citterio, Patricia Urquiola, Naoto Fukasawa, Marcel Wanders, and more. These collaborations have resulted in a broad portfolio of iconic pieces. Innovation and Research: The company has always emphasized innovation and research, developing advanced materials and production techniques to craft highly functional, contemporary furniture. Quality and Craftsmanship: Each piece is made with top-quality materials and expert craftsmanship, ensuring durability, comfort, and visual appeal. Diverse Portfolio: B&B Italia offers a wide range of products-from sofas and chairs to beds...
Steel
Swedish Modern Bureau by Otto Schulz for Boet, 1940s
By Boet, Otto Schulz
Located in Karlstad, SE
Very rare bureau by Otto Schulz for Boet, circa 1940. This bureau is covered in cream white vinyl attached with pearl nails, significant for the designer. The skewed front is made o...
Wood
$1,400
H 40.5 in W 40.25 in D 8.25 in
BoConcept Como System Lacquered Charcoal Gray Contemporary Shelving Unit
By BoConcept
Located in Keego Harbor, MI
A BoConcept Como System shelving unit. The Como shelving system is designed by Morton Georgsen for BoConcept, and is designed to be a mix and match modular system. A variety of cabi...
Lacquer
$4,096
H 86.62 in W 68.51 in D 18.12 in
Modular Teak shelving system by Kai kristansen for FH Möbel , Denmark, 1960s
By Kai Kristiansen
Located in Gaggenau, DE
Danish modern modular Teak shelving system by Kai kristansen for FH Möbel , Denmark, 1960 Danish design by F.H Møbler Design year: 1960s Dimensions: : 46--25 D x 174 W x 220 H ...
Teak
$2,808
H 86.62 in W 70.48 in D 11.82 in
Modular Oak shelving system by Hansen & Guldborg Mobler, Denmark, 1960s
Located in Gaggenau, DE
Danish modern modular Oak shelving system by Hansen & Guldborg Mobler, Denmark, 1960s Danish design by H.G Møbler Design year: 1960s Dimensions: : 30--- 22 D x 179 W x 220 H c...
Oak
$5,851
H 74.81 in W 102.37 in D 18.9 in
Modular Teak shelving system by Kai kristansen for FH Möbel , Denmark, 1960s
By Kai Kristiansen
Located in Gaggenau, DE
Danish modern modular Teak shelving system by Kai kristansen for FH Möbel , Denmark, 1960 Danish design by F.H Møbler Design year: 1960s Dimensions: : 48 D x 260 W x 190 H cm ...
Glass, Teak
$6,656 / item
+ 3 moreH 71 in W 60 in D 15 in
Customizable Color USM Haller Shelving H2 Storage System
By Fritz Haller, Usm Haller, Paul Schaerer
Located in New York, NY
Designed by Swiss architect Fritz Haller and Paul Schaerer in 1963. Made from powder coated steel and chrome-plated steel tubes, the USM Haller system is built to last for generation...
Chrome, Steel
$3,511
H 86.62 in W 68.51 in D 9.85 in
Modular Teak shelving system by Kai kristansen for FH Möbel , Denmark, 1960s
By Kai Kristiansen
Located in Gaggenau, DE
Danish modern modular Teak shelving system by Kai kristansen for FH Möbel , Denmark, 1960 Danish design by F.H Møbler Design year: 1960s Dimensions: : 25 D x 174 W x 220 H cm ...
Teak
$4,700 / item
H 90 in W 101.5 in D 8 in
Shelving Storage Expandable Wall Unit Modular Custom Bookcase System
By Tim Byrne
Located in Oakville, CT
Custom modular shelving storage bookcase system by Get Back Inc. In the vintage Industrial style. System as shown includes ten 8″ shelves, three beams...
Metal, Steel
Dieter Rams 606 Series Floating Credenza for Vitsoe, 1960s Design
By Dieter Rams, Vitsoe
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This rare, iconic "606 Series" unit, designed by the legendary Dieter Rams in his signature minimalist style for Vitsoe, is a wall mounted floating credenza, consisting of two out o...
Metal
Dieter Rams Wall unit for Vitsoe, 1970's
By Dieter Rams
Located in LYON, FR
The 606 universal shelving system is truly timeless. The bookcase is made of black satin laminate. Each element, whether a shelf or module, is screwed to aluminum plates that hold ...
Aluminum
Dieter Rams Black '606' Wall Mount Shelving Unit for Vitsoe
By Dieter Rams, Vitsoe
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A large, wall-mounted '606' shelving system by visionary German designer Dieter Rams for Vitsoe. This legendary system is known for its timeless minimalism and flawless functionality...
Aluminum
Dieter Rams Wall Mount 606 Shelving Unit for Vitsoe in Black
By Vitsoe, Dieter Rams
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Large black "606" wall mount shelving system by the incomparable and highly influential Dieter Rams for Vitsoe, Germany. Stunning, timeless design features black laminate shelves wit...
Aluminum
Sold
H 78.75 in W 72.05 in D 15.75 in
Mid-Century Black Shelf System 2 By Dieter Rams Vitsoe, Model 606, 1960s
By Vitsoe, Dieter Rams
Located in Rosendahl, DE
The modular shelving system "606", designed by Dieter Rams in 1960 and manufactured by Vitsœ. This iconic design is in good vintage condition with light, age-appropriate signs of wea...
Aluminum
Sold
H 78.75 in W 72.05 in D 15.75 in
Mid-Century Black Shelf System By Dieter Rams Vitsoe, Model 606, 1960s
By Vitsoe, Dieter Rams
Located in Rosendahl, DE
The modular shelving system "606", designed by Dieter Rams in 1960 and manufactured by Vitsœ. This iconic design is in good vintage condition with light, age-appropriate signs of wea...
Aluminum
Dieter Rams Wandregal 606 Vitsoe Holz schmal Design Bauhaus
By Dieter Rams, Vitsoe
Located in Berlin, DE
Wir beiten ein wunderschönes modulares Wandregalsystem von Vitsoe aus den 1960er Jahren zum Verkauf an. Das Design stammt von Dieter Rams, einem der einflussreichsten Möbeldesigner d...
Aluminum
Original Dieter Rams Wandregal 606 Vitsoe Holz Design Bauhaus
By Dieter Rams, Vitsoe
Located in Berlin, DE
Wir bieten ein wunderschönes modulares Wandregalsystem von Vitsoe aus den 1960er Jahren zum Verkauf an. Das Design stammt von Dieter Rams, einem der einflussreichsten Möbeldesigner d...
Aluminum
Original Dieter Rams Wandregal 606 Vitsoe weiß Design Bauhaus
By Dieter Rams, Vitsoe
Located in Berlin, DE
Wir bieten ein wunderschönes modulares Wandregalsystem von Vitsoe aus den 1960er Jahren zum Verkauf an. Das Design stammt von Dieter Rams, einem der einflussreichsten Möbeldesigner d...
Aluminum
Sold
H 15.75 in W 107.88 in D 14.97 in
midcentury 606 modular wall shelving by Dieter Rams for Vitsoe 1960s
By Vitsoe, Dieter Rams
Located in Antwerpen, Antwerp
The 606 modular system was designed by Dieter Rams for Vitsoe in the early 1960s. Vitsœ was founded in 1959 by Niels Wiese Vitsø and Otto Zapf. Zapf introduced Rams to Vitsø, making ...
Metal
Dieter Rams ‘606 Series’ Two Section Shelving System
By Dieter Rams, Vitsoe
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This iconic "606 Series" unit, designed by the legendary Dieter Rams in his signature minimalist style, is a two-section shelving system with off-white and brushed aluminum, a double...
Aluminum
Wall Shelf System By Dieter Rams Vitsoe, Model 606, 1960s
By Vitsoe, Dieter Rams
Located in Rosendahl, DE
The modular shelving system "606", designed by Dieter Rams in 1960 and produced by Vitsœ. This setup is in good condition with light, age-appropriate signs of wear. It includes four ...
Aluminum