DESIGN

“When a majestic Greek column falls and breaks into different pieces it transforms itself into a Gufram sitting room.” The Capitello chaise longue, the Attica armchair and Attica TL coffee table are contemporary archaeological finds that, just like the columns in the Erechtheion at the Acropolis in Athens – from which they find inspiration for aesthetics and dimensions – can be left out in the weather thanks to a particular finish which is suited also to outdoor use.

This project embodies the "tactile" concept, which is part of Gufram's DNA: the appearance that simulates the aspect of the Parthenon’s marble contrasts with the softness and lightness of polyurethane, which guarantees maximum ergonomics of the seats by supporting the body weight.

Created in 1971 and entirely finished by hand, Capitello is a faithful reproduction of an Ionic coil, that adds to its look the function of rest and relaxation. Its classical shapes make it a veritable domestic sculpture whose value is not limited to simple decoration. Like most design objects created by the Radical Design movement, they were controversial and provocative, aiming to destabilize expectations. As a marketing slogan, they used the statement "to sit on the past."

All the elements in this production are painted with Guflac, the special and unique finish patented by Gufram that enables polyurethane look like leather while keeping its flexibility and softness. In the case of Capitello, the Attica armchair and Attica TL coffee table was enriched and modified, to resist against bad weather, thus making the use possible also outdoor. The result is a harmonious balance between classical inspiration and modern design, creating a statement piece that transcends conventional seating. It was included in a series of luxury residential and commercial spaces (Mao Space; W.Dresses, China).

This pop and monumental triptyque is hosted in some of the most important museums: it stands side by side with the Nike of Samothrace at the Louvre, in the Decorative Arts section. It is part of the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum in New York, Vitra Design Museum, Centre Pompidou in Paris and the Denver Art Museum.‎