Poufs are synonymous with freedom and our ability to express ourselves. And the latest versions showcase huge amounts of creativity and experimentation, leaving them ready to surprise, entertain and serve. Some are a response to our dynamic world and promote a new and informal sense of conviviality.
Take Kiik, by Arper, for example, which was designed by Ichiro Iwasaki as “islands where we can meet up”. This modular collection is perfect for waiting rooms, university campuses, workspaces and meeting areas, with its varied materials, finishes and dimensions making it a versatile product suitable for any context. Minotti’s pouf is also about bringing people together: Damier, by Rodolfo Dordoni, is available in a number of different heights and square and rectangular shapes. They feel compact, sitting atop aluminium bases in the Shiny Bronze colour, and are available in a range of different leathers and fabrics.
Flou and Cornelio Cappellini, meanwhile, use style to revisit the past and pay tribute through the present. Flou rediscovers old vintage materials through Jil by Massimo Castagna, which combines a base and legs in eucalyptus with a seat pad covered in fabric or leather with removable lining. It’s indicative of the brand’s ethos on “rediscovering time”. Cornelio Cappellini puts a contemporary twist on capitonné, striking the perfect balance between aesthetics and practicality.
Vibrant brand Nanimarquina has opted for a 3D effect made up of colours, patterns and textures in the form of Kilim Poufs Collection, designed by Nani Marquina and Marcos Catalán for the café at the Barcelona Design Museum. Currently under production, the pouf features fireproof padding, a base made from birch wood and a Kilim covering with either geometric patterning or rough-effect full colour. Smania’s real strength lies in the leather used to cover Livingstone – available in 14 different versions and colours – and in the use of different densities of padding to accommodate the shape of the body.
There are some pieces that stand out from the crowd on account of their inclusion of additional functions. Etro Home’s Sharp, from the Pattern Overdose collection, does so thanks to a harmonious communion that evokes the Yin and Tang symbols, combining a soft seat pad in elegant Venezia, Dark Torquoise velvet with a side table featuring wooden structure with gold liquid metal glaze and Azul Bahia marble top.
Rodolfo Dordoni’s Euston for Molteni&C is another pouf combining a geometric table, available in two versions – one with a metal base, one floor version (both with a pewter finish).
Natuzzi also embraces their multi-functional ethos with its Agronomist Collection pouf, inspired by the shapes and colours of the Puglian countryside and designed by Marcel Wanders. The seat pad and table come together to create a compact, rounded pouf covered in terracotta leather and decorated with rope handles. Finally, Laurameroni’s Drapé collection by Bartoli Design takes the pouf from the living room to the bedroom with this particularly soft, fluid piece, featuring cascading velvety drapes created through expert craftsmanship. It’s another reminder that even in the private space of the home, there is space for individuality.
