Pitti Uomo Firenze, Florence Fashion Trade Fair, Communal Seating Design

Archetto, Pitti Uomo, Italy : Fashion Trade Fair Florence

Communal Seating, Italy – design by Sybarite

14 Jan 2012

Communal Seating Design

Location: Pitti Uomo, a large fashion trade fair held in Florence, Italy

Design: Sybarite

Archetto, Pitti Uomo seating design

Concept

Presenting a solution for communal seating which is adaptable on many levels, the Archetto was initially designed for the Buyer’s Club at the 2011 Pitti Uomo, a large fashion trade fair held in Florence, Italy. The brief was to make the best use of a small temporary space, to give substance and luxury to what could otherwise be boring and nondescript. The fluid ‘bow’ shape is both aesthetic and functional: it maximises seating capacity while gathering people together, encouraging conversation and sociability. The back of the structure sweeps up from seating height to form a screen, allowing a degree of privacy without creating a barrier. Avoiding abrupt edges which might make it feel closed off, the seat wraps around itself, inviting newcomers to sit down and join the conversation.

Archetto Pitti Uomo Pitti Uomo Firenze Archetto Firenze

Its lightweight structure and modular construction makes it simple to transport and reutilise in new locations, making it ideal for trade fairs and temporary show rooms. The design would readily transfer to more permanent usage in bars, restaurants or residential projects as well as breakout spaces or meeting rooms in offices. It’s scale and sculptural form make it well-suited to any setting, from a Medici palazza to the Guggenheim in New York to a modern office environment.

The Archetto also featured in Interni Magazine’s Mutant Architecture exhibition at the 2011 Salone del Mobile design festival in Milan. The sleek and slightly futuristic style contrasted particularly well against the historic courtyard of L’Ospedale Maggiore which housed the exhibition.

Communal Seating Design Communal Seating Design Florence Communal Seating Design Firenze Communal Seating Design Pitti Uomo

Construction

Archetto is constructed of high density foam which is CNC milled from a CAD-CAM file to ensure precision cutting. It’s finished in white flowcoat, a GRP lacquer similar to that used in yachts, ensuring the structure is suitable for external use. It’s lightweight and constructed in five pieces, making it easy to both assemble and transport. Practical for a showroom or office setting, connectivity is ensured by multiple power points set into the stainless steel skirting. Optional PVC-upholstered cushioning maintains a sleek look while enhancing comfort in a lounging situation. Archetto measures 5 m x 3.5 m x 1.5.

Seating Design at Pitti Uomo – Information

Client: Pitti Uomo Buyer’s Club, Firenze, Italy
Architect: Sybarite London, UK
Manufacturer: Marzorati Ronchetti Cantù, Italy (www.marzoratironchetti.it)
Completed: Jan 2011
Photographs: Federico Ambrosi (at Pitti Uomo); Cristiano Corte (outside photos at Salone del Mobile)

Pitti Uomo Firenze images / information from Sybarite

Sybarite

Location:Firenze, Italy

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