He is often celebrated for his innovative use of industrial materials, particularly metal, in the design of both functional furniture and architectural structures. Prouvé was an influential figure in the development of mid-20th-century design and is known for his strong belief in the relationship between industrial production and craftsmanship.

Prouvé’s design philosophy was rooted in a pragmatic, utilitarian approach to form and function. He focused on creating pieces that were not only aesthetically modern but also highly functional, using materials in ways that were both innovative and cost-effective. His works are known for their simplicity, structural integrity, and technical excellence, often highlighting the beauty of raw materials like steel and aluminum.

Among his most famous designs are his Chaise Pivotante, a swivel chair from the 1930s, and the Standard Chair, which epitomizes his industrial aesthetic. Prouvé’s architectural works include prefabricated houses and buildings designed with modular, metal-based construction techniques, which were ahead of their time. He also designed large-scale public buildings, including the Maison Tropicale, a lightweight, prefabricated structure built in Africa.

Prouvé was part of a broader movement of designers, including Charles and Ray Eames and Le Corbusier, who sought to blend functionality with modern design principles. His work is now highly regarded and held in collections at major museums, such as the Centre Pompidou in Paris.

He left his mark on architectural history again in 1971, when he played a major role in selecting the design of Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers for the Centre Pompidou as chairman of the competition jury. Prouvé's work encompasses a wide range of objects, from a letter opener to door and window fittings, from lighting and furniture to façade elements and prefabricated houses, from modular building systems to large exhibition structures – essentially, almost anything that is suited to industrial production methods.