Paolo Demel's "Gloria": A Tribute to Friendship and Innovation

Unveiling the Unique Properties of the Award-Winning Gloria Sofa

In the realm of design, where form and function intertwine, Paolo Demel's "Gloria" sofa stands out. This unique piece of furniture, named after a dear friend and collaborator tragically lost in the Grenfell Tower fire, is a testament to the power of design to evoke emotion, tell stories, and push boundaries.

Paolo Demel's inspiration for the Gloria sofa came from a desire to highlight the often overlooked internal structure of objects. The result is a sofa that is not only a functional piece of furniture but also a work of art. The sofa's visible steel structure, which continues inside the cushions, is a striking feature that sets it apart from conventional designs. The cut of the padding, exposing a part of the internal structure, is a bold design choice that gives the sofa its unique character.

Functionality is not compromised for the sake of aesthetics. The sofa's supporting structure is designed in one piece to distribute weight evenly and prevent structural failures. The adjustable glass shelf uses the sofa's steel structure as a track, allowing it to be positioned at the desired height. The use of magnets to add extra elements to the structure offers further customization options, making the Gloria sofa a versatile piece that can adapt to various settings and personal tastes.

The design process involved 3D modeling and technical drawings using 3D Rhinoceros, with renderings launched with Keyshot. The sketches were done entirely by hand, adding a personal touch to the project. The sofa measures 1800mm in width, 806mm in depth, 718mm in height, with a seat height of 406mm.

The Gloria sofa is not just a product, but a project with a deep emotional connection. The promise made to Gloria Trevisan, to see the project through to the end, was a significant driving force behind its completion. The design also represents a commitment to innovation and continuous improvement in the field of design.

Paolo Demel's efforts were recognized with a Silver A' Furniture Design Award in 2020, a prestigious accolade awarded to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation. The Gloria sofa, with its unique form and function, certainly fits this description. It is a testament to the power of design to evoke emotion, tell stories, and push boundaries.

In conclusion, the Gloria sofa is a unique piece of furniture that pushes the boundaries of design. It is a testament to the power of design to evoke emotion, tell stories, and push boundaries. The sofa's unique form and function, combined with its emotional backstory and commitment to innovation, make it a deserving recipient of the Silver A' Furniture Design Award.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Paolo Demel
Image Credits: Paolo Demel
Project Team Members: Designer: Paolo Demel Sketch: Gloria Trevisan
Project Name: Gloria
Project Client: Paolo Demel


Gloria IMG #2
Gloria IMG #3
Gloria IMG #4
Gloria IMG #5
Gloria IMG #5

Read More on Design Radiant