Cloche Sofa: Transforming Urban Life into Art

A Unique Blend of Sculpture, Ambient Light, and Modular Design

The Cloche Sofa, designed by Carlo Sampietro, is a remarkable piece of furniture that transcends its origins as a New York sewage pipe to become a work of art. This modular sofa represents the evolution of urban landscapes, challenging conventional structural standards and repurposing discarded materials into a sophisticated and meaningful design.

The Cloche Sofa is a testament to the power of transformation and reinvention. Carlo Sampietro drew inspiration from the old sewage pipes of New York, which have been under construction for the past three years, awaiting replacement. By repurposing these cylindrical structures, Sampietro has created a truly unique and innovative piece of furniture.

What sets the Cloche Sofa apart is its ability to seamlessly blend into any space. It can be used as a sculpture, an ambient light source, or a modular sofa. The design harnesses objects that have outlived their original purpose, giving them new life and meaning. The combination of reclaimed materials and meticulous craftsmanship results in a truly remarkable piece.

The realization of the Cloche Sofa involves a meticulous process. The New York sewage pipe is cut using a plasma cutter, and the structure of the back seat piece is welded to the body of the tube. A mechanical system allows for the rotation and locking of the back seat in position. LED side panels and conic footing accentuate the tube shape, creating a seamless integration of functionality and aesthetics.

The technical specifications of the Cloche Sofa are impressive, with a length of 4267mm and a diameter of 914mm. These dimensions make it suitable for various settings, from residential spaces to public areas.

Carlo Sampietro, the artist behind the Cloche Sofa, has been experimenting with different materials and sizes since 2013. The ongoing exploration includes variations such as an armchair and a sofa for three people. The project is a testament to Sampietro's dedication to pushing the boundaries of design and creating truly unique and captivating pieces.

The Cloche Sofa has garnered recognition and acclaim in the design world. In 2014, it was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Fine Arts and Art Installation Design category. This prestigious award recognizes designs that are well-designed, practical, and innovative, meeting professional and industrial requirements. The Cloche Sofa stands out for its integration of industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and its contribution to a better world.

The Cloche Sofa is not just a piece of furniture; it is a symbol of creativity, innovation, and the power of transformation. Through its unique blend of art, design, and functionality, it invites us to reimagine the possibilities of everyday objects and appreciate the beauty that can be found in unexpected places.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Carlo Sampietro
Image Credits: all picture copyright: Carlo Sampietro
Project Team Members: Artist: carlo Sampietro Production: hand made by Carlo Sampietro
Project Name: Cloche Sofa
Project Client: Carlo Sampietro


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