The Lina Armchair's design was inspired by the iconic tubular chairs developed in the Bauhaus. The designers sought to bring a Brazilian touch to this classic form by incorporating locally favored materials such as wood and linen. The result is a chair that not only pays homage to design history but also reflects the vibrant and diverse culture of Brazil.
What sets the Lina Armchair apart is its unique combination of materials. The chair's structure is primarily made of wood, with metal connections that not only provide structural benefits but also create an interesting contrast. The seat and backrest are upholstered with feathers, resulting in a product that is visually lightweight yet extremely comfortable and cozy.
The Lina Armchair was realized using solid Brazilian-walnut wood and molten metal, with different surface treatment options. The cushion holder is made of cut and sewn leather or fabric, along with buttons to attach firmly to the structure. The seat and backrest cushion are upholstered with feathers and coated with fabric or leather, adding to the chair's comfort and aesthetic appeal.
The Lina Armchair's design process was marked by a series of challenges. The designers aimed to create a product that was not only visually light and robust but also genuinely Brazilian, without resorting to traditional cultural stereotypes. The balance between lightness and strength proved to be the most difficult part of the process. However, the final product, with its sophisticated design and elegant combination of materials, successfully overcame these challenges.
The Lina Armchair has been recognized for its innovative design and exceptional quality. It won the first prize in the Professional Category of Salão Design 2018, the largest design award in Latin America. It was also awarded Silver in the A' Furniture Design Award in 2019, a prestigious accolade given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation.
In conclusion, the Lina Armchair is a testament to the power of design to bridge cultures and eras. By blending Brazilian warmth with Bauhaus structure, Fernanda and Leo Mangiavacchi have created a piece of furniture that is not only comfortable and elegant but also deeply rooted in design history.
Project Designers: Fernanda and Leo Mangiavacchi
Image Credits: Divulgação Elon
Project Team Members: Leo Mangiavacchi
Fernanda Mangiavacchi
Project Name: Lina
Project Client: Fernanda and Leo Mangiavacchi