Set of Three "Calida" Lounge Chairs by Giudici for Coim, Italy 1970s (sold)
Set of Three "Calida" Lounge Chairs by Giudici for Coim, Italy 1970s (sold)
Throughout the 20th century, and particularly in the 1960s and 1970s, Italian design reached its pinnacle of stylishness. By that point, the phrases "Bel Design" and "Linea Italiana" entered the lexicon of furniture design. The 1970s was a decade of mass production and innovation that signalled the end of the post-war rebuilding programme. However, unique designs and the overflow of creativity were still just as present, giving birth to outstanding pieces such as this set of 'Calida' lounge chairs.
Following the economic boom of the 1950s, the motto “design dictates, users follow” was the matrix of mass consumption society in Italy. Against this idea, the artists and designers of the coming decades defended a conception of design as an ecosystem that stressed the notion of play within everyday life. As a result, now-iconic design were created, such as the 'Sacco Bean Bag Chair' by Piero Gatti, Cesare Paolini, and Franco Teodoro in 1968, and Joe Colombo’s 'Tube Chair'. These upholstered 'Calida' chairs are much in the vein of these models, showcasing a break from the strictly functional, often rigid forms of the era. The defining feature of this model are the large upholstered bodies, with the design expressing stylish playfulness and comfort. This set is in perfect visual balance thanks to the carefully measured proportions of the plush seat and backrest. In the absence of arms, the chairs remain very open and light, despite the dark upholstery. Without any ornamentation, the focus remains on the curved, flowing lines of the bodies. From the muted colour scheme to the material choices, this streamlined set is essentially mid-century modern and can add that cosy charm into any space.
These 'Calida' lounge chairs effortlessly showcase a design philosophy that was rooted in the principles of functionality, comfort, and Italian elegance. Though many mid-century Italian designers may not have the same recognition as some of their Scandinavian counterparts, they were integral to developing a modern aesthetic in Europe. The appreciation for their contribution is still growing today, making outstanding Italian pieces like these lounge chairs highly sought after.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. These chairs come with their original upholstery or have been reupholstered by a previous owner. 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:
28.35 in W x 36.22 in D x 26.77 in H; Seat height 16.54 in; Seat depth 24.61 in
72 cm W x 92 cm D x 68 cm H; Seat height 42 cm; Seat depth 62.5 cm
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Price category: 15,000 - 20,000 usd / eur
Italian Modern furniture is defined by unique design, precise execution and a strong relationship with Italy’s tradition of craftsmanship. This pair of “Bergamo” lounge chairs with matching ottomans by Paolo Buffa is a testament to the distinctive character of mid-century modernism in Italy. Buffa’s design language remains coherent with contemporary developments while retaining a clear connection to traditional furniture making, combining measured proportions, refined decorative details and carefully worked wooden structures.
This pair is focused on elegant proportions, balanced compositions and a rich interplay between geometric and flowing lines. The solid wooden frames are shaped with curved upper edges, slender tapered legs and open sides. The front legs rise effortlessly to form the sweeping armrests, creating a continuous line around the upholstered seats. Two crosses on each side introduce a sharper geometric rhythm, while the backs are formed from a sequence of slender vertical and diagonal wooden elements that give the chairs a striking open appearance both when viewed from behind and from the side. Thick upholstered seat cushions are paired with distinctive round back pillows, leaving much of the wooden back structure visible and enhancing the airy character of the design. The warm, light fabric contrasts with the darker wood and softens the architectural quality of the frames. Each chair is accompanied by a matching ottoman, constructed with the same tapered legs, shaped wooden frame and generously upholstered cushion. Placed together, the ottomans extend the composition of the chairs and reinforce the dialogue between solid upholstery and finely worked wood. The crossed panels, curved armrests, slender back elements and rounded cushions gives the set a dynamic appearance while retaining the elegance inherent in Buffa’s work.
Paolo Buffa was passionate about furniture and product design, an area in which he remained faithful to a figurative repertoire rooted in classicism while embracing impulses of modernity. He was highly active within the Milanese design scene, where traditional craftsmanship and modern ideas were continually brought into dialogue. The “Bergamo” chairs capture that combination particularly well, and the presence of their matching ottomans makes the pair especially complete, creating two inviting lounge settings with a strong decorative presence from every angle.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The set has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items have marks, scratches, dents and discolouration. The chair and ottoman have been reupholstered recently in premium lambswool. 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:
Chair
25.59 in W x 33.66 in D x 31.10 in H; Seat height 16.73 in; Seat depth 18.11 in; Arm height 22.83 in
65 cm W x 85.5 cm D x 79 cm H; Seat height 42.5 cm; Seat depth 46 cm; Arm height 58 cm
Footstool
20.66 in W x 16.92 in D x 16.53 in H
52.5 cm W x 43 cm D x 42 cm H