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The return of the Bambole, Soriana, and Togo Sofas

That ’70s Sofa

By Wava Carpenter

One of my weekly tasks is analyzing the merchandise that Pamono sells, which gives me a front row seat to emerging patterns in the vintage market. Among the most blazingly hot trends of the last year is the return of 1970s-era sofas. Sharing is caring, so here’s a rundown on Pamono’s most-wanted couches from the era of pioneering space travel and “follow your bliss” super-relaxation.

 

The Togo Sofa by Michel Ducaroy for Ligne Roset (1973)

Quilted, structureless, and set low to the ground, French designer Michel Ducaroy’s iconic Togo Sofa exemplifies the 1970s, when the modernist mainstream intersected and absorbed the counter-culture’s interest in alternative lifestyles. In spite of (or perhaps because of) its laissez-fair vibe, this organic, breviloquent seating system became a favorite of the international chic-oisie. Today, it looks particularly stunning in spaces defined by rich or voluminous architecture.  The Togo Sofa featured in an interior by Handelsmann Khaw Photo © Justin Alexander

 

The Soriana Sofa by Tobia & Afra Scarpa for Cassina (1969)

Yes, it was technically designed in the 1960s, but the Soriana Sofa by Italian husband and wife duo Tobia and Afra Scarpa is associated more with the following decade, when its popularity took off. Like the Togo, it’s low and soft, inviting the sitter to really sink in. But its standout feature is the minimalist chromed wire structure that cinch the plush cushions in place and add a glint of glamour to the otherwise nearly amorphous design. Lately it's often found in high-profile and high-style boho modern interiors. The Soriana Sofa at the center of a Kelly Wearstler interior Photo © Kelly Wearstler

 

Le Bambole Sofa by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia (1972)

Looking like an oversized pillow with armrests, Le Bambole by Italian design guru Mario Bellini was made famous by its provocative ad campaign, which featured ’70s it girl Donna Jordan sprawled across it topless. But its success was no gimmick, and Le Bambole seats and sofas have been acquired by museum collections around the world. In the 21st century, it’s found a new generation of admirers, especially among those who favor edgy minimalism and industrial-style interiors. Le Bambole in the home of designer Frederic Hooft Photo © Frederic Hooft

 

Bonus: Camaleonda Sofa by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia (1970) and Maralunga Sofa by Vico Magistretti for Cassina (1973)

In addition to the Bambole, Soriana, and Togo Sofas, there are a few more notable ’70s sofas on the rise: Bellini’s Camaleonda and Vico Magistretti’s Maralunga, both of which feature that groovy, hippie modern vibe while maintaining an undeniable upscale elegance. They’re both stylistically flexible and look great within a variety of interior contexts—from sophisticated office spaces to fashionably low-key urban lofts. Camaleonda Sofa by Mario Bellini (1970) and Maralunga Sofa by Vico Magistretti (1973) Photo © Designgut; Photo © Cassina

 

 * With special thanks to Handelsmann Khaw, Kelly Wearstler, Frederic Hooft, Designgut, and Cassina for images.

  • Text by

    • Wava Carpenter

      Wava Carpenter

      After studying Design History, Wava has worn many hats in support of design culture: teaching design studies, curating exhibitions, overseeing commissions, organizing talks, writing articles—all of which informs her work now as Pamono’s Editor-in-Chief.

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