Experimentation without excess – this is the mandate of Saba Italia, a Padova-based Italian furniture brand established in 1987. And for the child of a decade associated most strongly with exactly that (excess), the restraint that’s tied to Saba Italia’s direction of exploration and invention is worth paying attention to.

Being considerably more youthful than many of its competitors, Saba Italia operates without the deep historic gravity that’s carried by the more longstanding Italian furniture companies. A bold style emanates from the brand’s furniture (sofas, chairs, tables and bookcases), as well as from its marketing campaigns.

Shapes cut unapologetic and energetic outlines, but always with reverence to the poetry of colour and the particular quality of the material. Backdrops and objects contribute to the product’s expression, building a bigger story about currents of design.

Stirring the emotions while feeling comfortable and ‘right’ – this is at the heart of the brand. So too is satisfying real consumer needs.

Philo three-seat sofa

One of Saba Italia’s latest product families is Philo – consisting of two- and three-seat sofas and an armchair, each with a lean and grounded form yet a friendly character. Philo is a prefix of Greek origin that refers to love, propensity and empathy toward people and things. The Philo furniture entices with friendly and distinctly expressed shapes and a slant that promises relaxation and calm.

The Philo three-seat sofa and armchair photographed (by Beppe Brancato with art direction by Studio MILO) against the striking backdrop of an empty pool.

Marco Zito’s design sees a slim metal frame tracing a gentle outline in support of broad, comforting upholstered surfaces. The latter can be read as clearly defined planes of colour that entice engagement with their hospitable curvature.

Philo three-seat sofa

Philo’s welcoming character and openness give it suitability to various types of spaces – from social spaces to homes to offices.

In Singapore, Saba Italia is available from P5.