Operative architectures

Eleven pieces of furniture that epitomise a contemporary approach to workplace design. Productivity and well-being go hand in hand

Catifa (RE) 53 by Arper, design Lievore Altherr Molina - Photo © Alberto Sinigaglia
Catifa (RE) 53 by Arper, design Lievore Altherr Molina - Photo © Alberto Sinigaglia

Reconfigurable systems, recycled materials, advanced acoustics, and ergonomic design are redefining the relationship between form and function in the workplace. New solutions for office environments go beyond simply meeting static needs; they are becoming active tools for organization, connection, and well-being.

Catifa (RE) 53 | Lievore Altherr Molina | Arper
Catifa (RE) 53 by Arper (designed by Lievore Altherr Molina, 2001 – updated 2025) focuses on material innovation. A new shell made from 100% recycled plastic has been introduced. Thanks to the absence of adhesives, the upholstery can be easily separated and replaced, improving both sustainability and practicality. The seat is available with a fully upholstered shell in three variations: seamless, with tone-on-tone striped stitching, or with star stitching, in white or black.

Oba by Dieffebi, design Altherr Désile Park
Oba by Dieffebi, design Altherr Désile Park

Oba | Altherr Désile Park | Dieffebi
Oba, designed by Altherr Désile Park for Dieffebi, is a modular table system (for meetings, high tables, and lounges) where a wide range of shapes and sizes allows for 20 different models. The vertices of the orthogonal tops rest on the center of the cylindrical leg’s circular section, leaving a sliver visible. Similarly, the rounded edges of the round and oval tops cross through the center of the leg, creating an intersection made more harmonious by the curved lines.

Super Random by Manerba, design Gio Tirotto - Photo © Federica Bottoli
Super Random by Manerba, design Gio Tirotto – Photo © Federica Bottoli
Lisse by laCividina, design Sabine Marcelis - Photo © Titia Hahne
Lisse by laCividina, design Sabine Marcelis – Photo © Titia Hahne

Super Random | Gio Tirotto | Manerba
Super Random, a system of single and modular seats designed by Gio Tirotto for Manerba, features a wraparound sail-shaped backrest. Functional and decorative, the structure supports and isolates the user without visually closing off the space. Composed of fabric-covered upholstered benches, the system is reconfigurable, movable, and stackable, allowing for the design of environments through straight and curved lines.

Lisse | Sabine Marcelis | laCividina
Lisse is the new sculptural collection of upholstered furniture designed by Sabine Marcelis for laCividina. It is a flexible system without predefined modules. An island positioned in front of the backrest defines its function as a sofa, which can evolve into more articulated configurations with the addition of poufs or seats that can be freely placed in the space. Lisse is upholstered with Mylla, the first monomaterial fabric in fully recycled polyester, developed by the Dutch brand Febrik.

Trame by Isolspace, design Odeon Studi
Trame by Isolspace, design Odeon Studi

Trame | Odeon Studi | Isolspace
Isolspace, a brand of Tecnasfalti, expands its range of acoustic comfort solutions with Alma and Trame (pictured), 60×60 cm square sound-absorbing tiles designed by Cristina Zanni and Sara Belletti of Odeon Studi. Designed for direct wall application, Trame features a vertical element design, ideal for boiserie applications. Textile coverings include a velvet version and two 100% recycled fabric variations.

Typo Lounge by Mara, design AMDL CIRCLE
Typo Lounge by Mara, design AMDL CIRCLE

Typo Lounge | AMDL CIRCLE | Mara
Typo Lounge is the new seat from Mara, designed by AMDL CIRCLE, the studio founded by Michele De Lucchi. A distinctive element is the metal tubing: starting from the study of steel bending techniques, a process has been developed that generates a unique effect. By bending a square-section tube along the diagonal, the material deforms, creating sharp folds with a curled and draped appearance. The collection is completed by the Typo Ottoman pouf, also available in an upholstered version.

Clover by Caimi, design Design King & Miranda
Clover by Caimi, design Design King & Miranda
Folda by Milani, design Alessandro Stabile - Photo © Alessandro Di Bon
Folda by Milani, design Alessandro Stabile – Photo © Alessandro Di Bon

Clover | Design King & Miranda | Caimi
Clover, designed by Design King & Miranda for Caimi, is a three-dimensional sound-absorbing element made of polyester with differentiated density. It consists of three concave panels that intersect at the ends, joined by a central joint that forms a cloverleaf structure. It can be installed on the wall using magnets or on the ceiling using three steel cables adjustable in height.

Folda | Alessandro Stabile | Milani
Milani presents Folda, a lounge collection designed by Alessandro Stabile. The project is based on rectangular cushions that define the seat, backrest, armrests, and headrest. The seat, wider than the backrest, breaks canonical proportions, while the armrests extend beyond the structure. All models have a swivel base with four aluminum spokes. The collection is completed by a pouf with a single cushion, also serving as a footrest.

Dorik by Actiu, design Odosdesign
Dorik by Actiu, design Odosdesign

Dorik | Odosdesign | Actiu
Dorik is a collection of tables designed by Odosdesign for Actiu, inspired by the Doric columns of Greek architecture. Made with rotational molding, the tables are distinguished by their monolithic base, essential lines, and formal balance. Available in various heights and sizes, with porcelain or melamine tops, they adapt to indoor and outdoor spaces.

Harvey by Et al., design Francesco Faccin
Harvey by Et al., design Francesco Faccin

Harvey | Francesco Faccin | Et al.
Francesco Faccin designs Harvey for Et al., a project that pays homage to tradition: an electrified three-legged trestle that, in pairs, supports the tabletop. The integrated electrification allows the entire surface to be used and the furniture to be experienced flexibly throughout the day. The Schuko and USB sockets power PCs, cameras, telephones, but also a coffee machine or a toaster during lunch break.

TL System by Fantoni, design Studio Marco Piva
TL System by Fantoni, design Studio Marco Piva

TL System | Studio Marco Piva | Fantoni
Proposed by Fantoni, the TL bookcase is a versatile system for both home and work environments. It offers customizable configurations for storage, display, and operational spaces. Linear, elegant, and available in wall-mounted or free-standing versions, it seamlessly integrates into any setting. Maximum compositional freedom with an essential and timeless design.