Gogan Sofa by Patricia Urquiola takes its name from nature and in particular from Japanese stones rendered smooth by time and water, which provided the inspiration for this project. This is the name given to the Japanese stones placed to protect and embellish the banks of rivers and lakes. The sofa’s form, as much as the armchair’s form, in fact, reminds us of flat stones sculpted by wind and water, solid yet smooth enough that you can lie on them.
Just like in rock sculptures, where stones maintain their balance by being carefully positioned and interlocked, it is the shape that maintains the balance between the elements on the Gogan sofa and armchair, which is not overly regular. By playing around with gravity and balance, we can make normally heavy shapes lightweight.
The seats are soft and irregular with the centre of gravity being slightly inclined towards the rear. This gives exceptional comfort and allows the backrest to be kept lower. The backrest and seat are joined by abutments, which lend the sofa a sense of lightness so that it appears as if it was suspended above the ground.
The Gogan Sofa is can be upholstered in a range of Moroso fabric options, please enquire to view the full library of available options.
Patricia Urquiola was born in Oviedo (Spain) and now lives and works in Milan. She attended the faculty of architecture of Madrid Polytechnic were she graduated in 1989 having done a thesis with Achille Castiglioni. From 1990 to 1992 she was assistant lecturer on the courses held by Achille Castiglioni and Eugenio Bettinelli both at Milan Polytechnic and E.N.S.C.I. in Paris. Between 1990 and 1996 she worked for the new product development office of De Padova and with Vico Magistretti signed the products: “Flower”, “Loom sofa”, “Chaise” and “Chaise Longue”.
In 2001 she was chair of the jury for the 19th CDIM Design Award and was lecturer in the Domus Academy. She is currently conducting her professional activity in her own studio in Milan in the field of design, exhibitions, art direction, and architecture.
With over 30 years of experience in dealing with the international furniture and interior fit-out supply sector, Alan and Jeanne Bertenshaw, the co-owners of Matisse, have forged a reputation unique in New Zealand with the world’s leading manufacturers and designers of quality contemporary furniture for the home and office as well as kitchens, wardrobes, and bathrooms.
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