Star designers like Claesson Koivisto Rune, Barber Osgerby and Scholten & Baijings have collaborated with major manufacturers on vibrant and patterned soft seating that punches up corporate and hospitality environments. (See our Neocon preview for more great office chairs.)
1 Scholten & Baijings for Herman Miller
Herman Miller has applied the pastel and neutral Grid fabrics that Dutch design studio Scholten & Baijings created for Maharam to several of its classic office chairs, including Landmark, Sled and Bumper Lounge.
2 Polder Compact by Vitra
The Swiss manufacturer updated Hella Jongerius’s 2005 sofa with this compact version that suits hospitality spaces. Asymmetrical and buttoned, the modular system can be covered in fabrics in palettes of green, red, yellow or blue, coordinated by Jongerius herself.
3 Notch by Lema
These poufs by young Swedish designer Johan Lindstén is his first collaboration with Italian manufacturer Lema. Available in two sizes, they feature straps in aged natural leather for easy transport in home or office environments.
4 2002 by Thonet
Christian Werner’s plump two-seater consists of Thonet’s signature bent wood – in stained or lacquered beech, or oiled, lacquered or stained ash – wrapped around a one-piece seat cushion. The compact 2002 comes with large and small cushions that act as back and armrests which when removed, convert the sofa into a daybed.
5 KT-221 by De Sede
The Swiss manufacturer relaunched Kurt Thut’s iconic quilted bench from 1956 which is suitable for lobbies and waiting areas. Other variations are available such as single seats, with or without backrests, and a separate table.
6 Gate by Offecct
Claesson Koivisto Rune’s modular seating system is defined by its thick back and slim seat atop skinny legs. Available in bold shades from red to electric blue, Gate also features electrical outlets in its backrest to recharge devices and is ideal for public waiting spaces.
7 Oculus by Coalesse
Coalesse reintroduced Hans J. Wegner’s CH468 armchair designed to provide comfort in different postures. Supporting the head, neck and upper back, Oculus is available in leather or fabric atop stainless steel legs.
8 Throw Away by Zanotta
Armchairs, sofas and poufs comprise this collection of goose feather-filled seating with removable covers in fabric or leather, that suits hospitality or office environments.
9 Eleven High Back by Alias
Italy’s Alias called on British duo PearsonLloyd for an extension of their existing Eleven collection. The new high back is available on the two or three-seater sofas and features side and rear panels fixed to the aluminium legs for added privacy. Covered in Kvadrat or Camira fabric, it’s ideal for working environments.
10 Thea by MDF Italia
This modular line features six types of upholstered modules – including a chaise longue and inclined pouf – plus coordinating accessories such as headrest cushions, back cushions, quilts, blankets, and aluminum trays. It’s available in white, dove grey and dark grey, with special colours upon request.
For more stylish seating, check out Design File in the June 2015 issue of Azure, on newsstands now.