With "Design Your Own Eames Shell Chair," Vitra is taking the next step in its circular vision: not replacing products, but extending their lifespan, adapting them, and reusing them. Give Your Eames Shell Chair a Second Life is a new concept that allows design enthusiasts to create their own Eames Shell Chair or upgrade their existing chair through circularity. After a successful pop-up during the GLUE Amsterdam design festival in 2025, the initiative will now have a permanent home in the Vitra Circle Store in Zaandam.

How it works

Starting Friday, March 13, 2026, the Vitra Circle Store in Zaandam will offer an extensive and changing collection of Eames Shell Chair shells and bases in various designs, colors, and materials.

Choose your favorite seat and decide which base to place underneath. While you enjoy a delicious cup of coffee, your chair will be assembled on-site – ready to take home!

Do you already have an Eames Shell Chair but are you ready for something different?

Then turn in your old chair and receive an attractive compensation, which we'll immediately apply towards the purchase of your new Eames Shell Chair . This way, you'll give your old chair a new life and contribute to circular design.

Would you rather upgrade your existing chair?

Are you happy with your chair but would like to change the design? Choose to return just the shell or base. You'll receive a nice refund for that too, which we'll immediately apply towards the purchase of a new shell or base. A small change with a big impact – your chair will look like new again!

FAQ

Does the seat, shell or base that I trade in have to be in perfect condition?

No, it certainly doesn't have to be perfect! As long as the seat, shell, or base is still usable, you can return it.

How many chairs can I return?

A maximum of 8 chairs can be returned per customer.

If I trade in my chair, shell, or base, will I receive a voucher for the trade-in amount, or do I have to buy something new right away?

You purchase a new chair, seat, or base right there and then. The value of your old chair is immediately deducted from the purchase price.

Can I also have just the (felt) glides of my chair replaced?

Yes, you can also go to the Vitra Circle Store to have the (felt) glides replaced.

Does the promotion also apply to B2B customers?

This promotion is specifically designed for private customers. Are you a B2B customer? Feel free to contact us, and we'll explore the possibilities together.

Where can I go if I have any questions?

Please contact the Vitra Circle Store at amsterdam.vitracircle@vitra.com