In the 1970s Hans Hopfer created the Mah Jong lounge sofa, Roche Bobois’s most recognized and iconic design. The freedom of form that this fully modular low seating system allows broke the design mould and encouraged a completely new way of organizing living spaces. Upholstered in simple plain fabrics at the beginning, today it is ‘dressed’ by some of the world’s finest couturiers.

This spectacular modular sofa model named 'Mah Jong' is composed of twelve cushions arranged into six modules, three corner modules, two straight modules, and a separate module that can be used in a number of ways, such as an ottoman, a table or foot rest. Hopfer is regarded as the inventor of "seating landscapes", and looking at this sofa gives meaning to that title. This sofa’s ingenious and versatile design offers basic elements that can be stacked, aligned and grouped in different ways, allowing for a variety of layouts. This Roche Bobois edition model has a unique upholstery with brown short velvet which lends a stylish, modern look to the modules that is remains reminiscent of the 1970s. The tufted, futon-like elements assure great comfort and cosiness and the absence of legs adds to this character. However, the individual modules are arranged, this model commands the space it is placed in, and is sure to draw attention.

In 1970, Hans Hopfer met the Roche Bobois management team. The collaboration began, and less than a year later, the Mah Jong Sofa was born, and it quickly became a benchmark of creativity that has strongly influenced interior design professionals. Since 1990, the Mah Jong sofa has been the number one seller for the Roche Bobois company, and the brand has a workshop specializing in the manufacture of Mah Jong. Hans Hopfer worked as a designer, painter and sculptor in Buenos Aires, in Nuremberg, and in Paris. He has received various international awards for his work as a designer and is considered one of the greatest interior design professionals of the 20th century.

SOLD

Condition:

In medium vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Fabric looks thin in some parts, some discoloration, some small stains (although they are not that noticeable). Although the fabric is still good, please also don’t hesitate to each out to us for the possibilities for re-upholstery.

Dimensions:

Sofa:

149.6 in W x 76.37 in D x 25.19 in H; Seat height 14.96 in

380 cm W x 194 cm D x 64 cm H; Seat height 38 cm

Stool:

35.43 in W x 38.18 in D x 14.96 in H

90 cm W x 97 cm D x 38 cm H

About the designer:

Hans Hopfer was born in 1931 in Germany. He began his career in 1964, when he joined the growing company, Mabiliar-Basar in Nuremberg at Fleeischbrücke. Part of his contract with Mabiliar-Basar stated Hopfer would only design and develop products under his own name. Therefore, the brand name Hans Hopfer was born.

During Hans Hopfer's first year as a designer with Mabiliar-Basar, he started developing his line and materializing his concepts. Hopfer knew he wanted to produce a clean, modern, and streamlined variety of products that would also be useful and comfortable. He wanted to design a line for longevity.

His first release under his self-titled brand name was the Bausystem in 1965. To enhance Hopfer's goal of a streamlined appearance, the design contained no seams or gaps. This design set the stage for what was to come. The Mobiliante, created in 1967, was the first sofa collection offering a sofa, love seat as well as an ottoman. Customers were able to purchase one or all three. In keeping with Hopfer's vision, the final construction contained minimal details while providing comfort for the modern consumer.

In 1969, Hopfer released “The Lounge”, a 3-piece matching collection providing extra room for the consumer to fully relax. After the release of The Lounge, Hopfer took a much-needed break. It is believed that during this time, his life changed dramatically with the birth of his daughter, Patricia. According to co-workers and friends, Hopfer decided consumers needed a family-friendly product that could still be considered a work of art. It has been said the birth of his daughter was the reason Hopfer decided to adjust his product line. Hopfer returned to his designs in 1971 with this sentiment.

The variety of products Hans Hopfer gifted to the world is wide and spectacular. Regardless of what style will be popular in years to come, the designs Hopfer offers will stay in style. Consumers are focusing more on functional, comfortable, and art-like items, and less on the frills of highly decorative pieces. This is exactly what a person can expect from Hans Hopfer. He had a style that will never grow old. ~H.