To coincide with the significant milestone of 60 years of Salone del Mobile, the world’s most important furniture fair,
Produced in partnership with
An instant success, Le Bambole continued to be popular for many decades, eventually becoming a collector’s item by the start of the new millennium. In 2007 at the age of 35, the collection was re-launched as
Rather than the brightly coloured stretch knits of the 2007 version, Stella’s interpretation brings a quintessentially French look to the collection with large format floral fabrics and delicate Toile de Jouy.
The vitality of the contemporary form is cheekily enveloped in modern takes on traditional botanical fabrics, allowing
But it didn’t stop there. Rather than just delivering a visual makeover, B&B Italia’s ongoing commitment to innovation and the reduction of environmental impact led to the collection being completely re-designed from the ground up using the latest technologies and recycled materials.
The sustainability improvements are staggering comparing the original design with its 2022 counterpart. The original Le Bambole had a 17 per cent product circularity (product circularity meaning it could serve as raw materials for new products once it reached the end of its lifespan). This year’s version has a 77 per cent product circularity; all parts were re-designed to aid in disassembly, repair and end-of-life recycling of materials.
Despite all of these radical changes in the interests of sustainability, the overall comfort of the collection has been improved–particularly the
Although it perhaps hasn’t quite achieved the levels of fame of Mario’s classic,
Inspired by the flat rounded stepping-stones found in Japanese gardens, the Tobi-Ishi table has always had a strength implied by the simplicity of its three-part form. The latest iteration of the table takes a two-tone approach that recalls Romanesque and Italian Gothic buildings such as the Orvieto Cathedral in Umbria. Strips of white Carrara and green Alpi marble are stacked in layers and then carved to create the design’s beautifully soft curves. The result is more luxurious and decorative, but the quiet power of the shape comes through regardless.
Embracing timeless appeal and craftsmanship,
By contrast, the
Described as embodying Nordic precision with an oriental spirit, the
With its presentation during Milan Design Week in June, B&B Italia deftly balanced the art of maintaining and improving historically important designs while developing exciting new products that keep the brand fresh and inspiring. Their commitment to innovation is unwavering, and sustainability, perhaps today’s biggest challenge, is now a permanent part of this ongoing process.
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