Domenico Parisi, nicknamed Ico, is one of the most famous architects and interior designers from the Italian mid-century period. The 1950s saw brilliant Italian designers working to create furniture of the highest quality that explored truly modern shapes and innovative techniques. Designers, like Parisi, experimented with new materials and construction methods but, most importantly, they kept the elegance inherent in Italian design.

As such, this individualistic sofa reflects the mid-century Italian furniture style that was defined by unique solutions, perfect execution, and exclusivity. This delightfully eccentric model is simplistic in its design, featuring a combination of a curved, shell-like body and wooden legs. The curves that define its shape evoke a sense of inviting comfort, making it the perfect spot to lounge.

The curved body embraces the sitter comfortably with its sloping, pointy armrests, which creates a cosy feel and look. The angular look is artistic and stylish, and establishes the unmistakeable Italian design expression. The shape is further supported by the light upholstery that is elegantly restrained while having enough textural variety to enhance the rounded edges. Thanks to Ico Parisi’s innovative talent and attention to detail, there is no doubt that this sofa will elevate any interior style.

SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa has been reupholstered recently in a premium alpaca blend fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.

Dimensions:

90.16 in W x 46.85 in D x 33.66 in H; Seat height 16.54 in; Seat depth 20.08 in; Arm height 23.82 in

229 cm W x 119 cm D x 85.5 cm H; Seat height 42 cm; Seat depth 51 cm; Arm height 60.5 cm

About the Designer:

Domenico Parisi, nicknamed Ico, was born in Palermo in 1916 to Sicilian parents. In 1925 the Parisi family moved to Como where Ico earned his diploma as a building inspector in 1936 and completed an apprenticeship at Studio Terragni. The studio gave him the opportunity to get to know and interact with prominent figures of Como's architecture and art world such as Cattaneo, Lingeri, Radice, Rho, Persico and Sartoris.

In 1947, Ico Parisi married Luisia Aiana. She was an architect and an apprentice of Gio Ponti. In 1948 they opened their own design studio, La Ruota, a place of design but also a place of art, exhibitions and culture. Parisi's work became more and more prolific from the 1950s, in both the architectural and design fields. He designed furniture, firstly unique pieces with craftsmen from Brianza and later for industrial production with companies such as Cassina, as well as numerous decorative art objects using materials such as ceramics and glass.

Together with his wife, Luisa, he designed amazing furniture that is still very popular amongst collectors and design-lovers. In 1955 Parisi was nominated for the Compasso d’Oro with Model 691 and Model 839 chairs for Сassina. The Parisis worked as a team and relied on experimentation in style and material for many of their designs. Ico Parisi died in Como in 1996. ~ H