Franco Albini Fiorenza chairs Arflex Italy 1956

Franco Albini

Italy 1905 – 1977
Architect, designer

Rare early versions of Fiorenza lounge chairs designed by Franco Albini and manufactured by Arflex in Italy in 1956. These chairs are made of solid walnut and show a unique square architectural design with slightly angled feet and horizontal supports. The front feet support the angles armrests. The wingback seat gives the chairs their iconic character while the subtle distance between the wings and arms are a nice detail. The chairs are upholstered in an elegant off-white linen fabric. The structure and the bolts still show their original patina. This particular version of the chairs represents Albini’s second design for the Fiorenza chair featuring the external wooden structure that not only adds stability but also becomes an integral and visually striking part of the chair’s design. A perfect blend of form and function and icons in Italian design history. They resemble Japanese simplicity and display a precision bordering on being obsessive.

Franco Albini (1905-1977) was an influential Italian architect and designer renowned for his modernist approach and innovative contributions to the fields of architecture, furniture, and industrial design. Born in Robbiate, Italy, Albini’s creative journey began with his studies in architecture at the Politecnico di Milano, where he graduated in 1929. Albini’s design philosophy was deeply rooted in functionalism, emphasizing simplicity, practicality, and a harmonious integration of form and function. Throughout his career, he explored a wide range of design disciplines, including architecture, interior design, product design, and furniture design.

One of Albini’s notable contributions was his work with materials such as rattan, which he creatively incorporated into his furniture designs, challenging traditional notions of structure and aesthetics. His iconic “Margherita” and “Gala” chairs, characterized by their intricate woven patterns, are celebrated examples of his groundbreaking use of this natural material. Beyond furniture design, Albini also made significant architectural contributions, collaborating on projects such as the renowned “La Rinascente” department store in Milan and the iconic “Palazzo Rosso” in Genoa. His architectural designs showcased his ability to combine modernist principles with a deep respect for historical context and cultural heritage.

Throughout his illustrious career, Franco Albini received numerous awards and honours, including the prestigious Compasso d’Oro award for his outstanding contributions to the field of design. His timeless designs continue to inspire and influence generations of designers, cementing his legacy as one of the pioneers of modern Italian design.

Like all our upholstered pieces these can also be newly upholstered to your admiration. Ask our experienced upholstery department for an affordable quote for the item you want customized. We only use the best quality fabrics, foam, and materials for all our items. With the reupholstery we will always keep the originality in mind so the piece doesn’t lose its value and will be ready for years of use again.