Polish-American architect and artist Daniel Libeskind has designed the Gemma collection for Italian furniture company Moroso. Inspired by natural crystals, gems and rock formations, the seating range is characterised by multifaceted forms. An interesting contrast can be observed as sharp angles juxtapose the ergonomic comfort and softness associated with upholstery.

The line is composed of a chair and sofa for the home or office, as well as an upholstered bench for public spaces. Described as “an exercise in architecture on a small scale,” the design process revolved around the consideration of space, proportions, texture, colour and comfort – not unlike the thought Libeskind injects into his buildings.

“It is as difficult to design a sofa as it is to design a big building, because the same intensity, passion, talent and love has to go into it, as a large-scale and complex piece of architecture,” he said.

Developed in close collaboration with Patrizia Moroso, whom Libeskind described as a business woman with a creative mind, Gemma merges the exploration of geometry seen in Libeskind’s buildings, and Moroso’s artistry and expertise.

The line is cushioned and upholstered on a steel frame. Several fabric options are available for the upholstery, including Blur, a soft knit fabric with an ombre effect. Moroso developed the steel frame in partnership with fellow Italian company Feruglio Engineering.

Moroso is available in Australia at HUB Furniture.