Modello 09: A Celebration of Brazilian Modernism

Designer Cass Saldanha Marries Geometry and Tropicalism in Award-Winning Chair Design

Modello 09 draws inspiration from the works of renowned designers like Isay Winfield, Carlos Motta, and Lina Bo Bardi. The chair's design is rooted in a philosophy of environmental respect and a love for handcrafting. The materials and manufacturing process embrace the natural aspects of the materials, including their marks and bruises, which are viewed as badges of honor. This approach results in a limited edition artwork that stands out in the realm of furniture design.

The unique properties of Modello 09 lie in its celebration of mobili brasiliani. The chair features straight lines and a geometric construction that creates an illusionary loop connecting the seat, legs, back, and arms in a unique manner. The selected material combination of solid Burmese hardwood teak, brass, and cane webbing results in a resistant and strong build.

The realization of Modello 09 involves a simple yet effective choice of materials. The teak wood forms the overall structure and character of the chair, with its angles and geometric shapes balancing the warmth of the wood. Brass bars add a technical bond to the structure and a nod to gold as a premium material. The cane webbing adds a natural, handmade personality to the composition, an aesthetic element borrowed from Mobiliario Brasileiro broadly used in Latin American furniture design.

The chair's construction is carefully built with epoxy glue, notches, and sockets, finished with a special mixture of Bees Wax and Teak Oil. The result is a curious straight-angled shape, without obvious structural support in the backend of the arms, yet still providing a solid contour with improved usability and ergonomics. All materials used in this project are sourced locally, further emphasizing Saldanha's commitment to sustainability.

Modello 09 measures 610mm in width, 787mm in depth, and 660mm in height. The seat height at the front is 355mm, while at the back, it is 255mm. These technical specifications, along with the chair's unique design and sustainable approach, have earned it the prestigious Silver A' Furniture Design Award in 2022. This award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation.