First presented at Salone del Mobile Milan in 2024, followed up with a sneak peek for Australian audiences at Saturday Indesign, Arper’s new furniture releases balance timeless aesthetics with a forward-thinking approach.

As a leader in commercial furniture, Arper continues its journey toward sustainable design, a commitment that began in 2005. The launch of these latest creations showcases a significant step forward in its journey towards a more sustainable future, a sentiment that resonates deeply in every detail of these new releases.

At its heart are four standout pieces: Catifa Carta, Lepal, Kata, and Ghia 74 – each showcasing craftsmanship and environmental consideration.

Revolutionary materials in Catifa Carta

At the centre of the collection is Catifa Carta, a reinterpretation of Arper’s iconic Catifa 53, first designed in 2001. This evolution introduces PaperShell, a groundbreaking composite material made from layers of paper bonded with natural resin. The result? A bi-curved shell that is both robust and lightweight, offering the same graceful silhouette that has made Catifa a design classic.

PaperShell sequesters carbon dioxide during production, which aligns with Arper’s commitment to addressing climate challenges. At the end of its life, the material can be transformed into biochar, locking in CO2 for good. Available in a rich coffee hue with a choice of bases and removable cushions, Catifa Carta is a beautiful fusion of sustainability and elegance.

It’s an innovation that embraces pioneering materials and conscientious practices, inspiring change and setting a standard for responsible business in the industry.

Lepal is where comfort meets sculptural elegance

Designed by the iconic design duo Doshi Levien, the Lepal Lounge Chair combines ergonomic comfort with sculptural presence. Its soft, cushioned seat contrasts with a high, curved back, making for an inviting yet commanding piece. The chair’s modularity offers endless possibilities: from single- or bi-material upholstery to a choice of metal or wood bases.

Lepal is also designed for longevity. Its FSC-certified components can be fully disassembled for reupholstery or recycling, reflecting a careful approach to material use. Whether in monochromatic tones or contrasting finishes, Lepal speaks to spaces that value both form and function.

Timeless tradition is reimagined in Kata

The Kata Chair by Studio Altherr Désile Park takes inspiration from traditional handcrafted wood and woven straw chairs and reinterprets it for contemporary living. With options for a wooden or upholstered shell, Kata is both lightweight and durable, marrying sustainability with artisanal beauty.

This new edition celebrates natural materials with a palette that includes black, rust, and natural oak finishes. The FSC-certified construction allows for disassembly, ensuring the chair’s lifecycle can continue in new forms. Optional cushions with decorative stitching provide added comfort, further enhancing its appeal.

Organic connections with Ghia 74

Rounding out the collection is the Ghia 74 table, a piece designed to foster connection and collaboration. With its organic, flowing forms and range of sizes, Ghia 74 is equally at home in dining or meeting spaces. Its FSC-certified construction and clean lines reflect Arper’s dedication to sustainable design without compromising versatility or style.

The table’s design incorporates practical features like cable management for office settings, blending functionality with understated sophistication. Its geometric base pairs seamlessly with a wide array of Arper chairs, creating environments that encourage togetherness.

At the heart of Arper’s new collection is a vision that goes beyond the aesthetic. Each piece is a response to urgent global challenges, demonstrating that beauty and responsibility can coexist. Arper’s highly aligned collaborative partners such as PaperShell is cultivating innovative developments, which is crucial for delivering impactful solutions and staying ahead in today’s ever-evolving landscape.

Through Catifa Carta, Lepal, Kata, and Ghia 74, Arper offers a glimpse into the future of design – one where elegance and sustainability co-exist with ease.

Stylecraft
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