paola navone's artistic experimenting expands gervasoni collections

for over 130 years, the gervasoni brand has been driven by the dedication to beauty, versatility, craftsmanship, and, above all else, experimentation when creating furniture collections. paola navone has guided their artistic direction for 20 years, creating magical and rarefied designs with a non-conventional twist. this was highlighted at salone del mobile 2018 as the designer imagined settings of surprising connections between four different materials – wood, ceramic, marble and aluminum – where new products blended in naturally. this totalled four living and three dining areas, where gray palettes were broken with apparent intersperses of blue, acid green, purple and orange colors.

in an exclusive visit to paola navone’s studio, designboom interviewed the italian designer who explored topics from the start of the partnership with gervasoni, transitioning their furniture from outdoor to indoor settings as well, and how important original designs are to the expansion of collections.

MORE modular system

during salone del mobile 2018, the main novelties of gervasoni included armchairs and sofas. to start, the ‘MORE’ collection details a modular system dedicated to relaxation in the way in which it offers infinite configurations to suit any need. including an armchair, corner element, pouf and dormeuse, the design benefits from generous dimensions and comfortable cushions. this is finished with a pair of separate armchairs that, with soft lines and a light worn look charm, completes the appearance of leisure.

MIK sofa

characterized by delicate and understated shapes, the ‘MIK’ sofa is distinguished by its contrast between the classicism of the structure and the soft part as represented by the seat and backrest. these are made from large cushions with a cosy consistency. the design, available in 200 cm or 240 cm sizes, is complete with a special saddle stitch finishing that gives it a décor touch.

NEWS coffee table and NUVOLA armchair

the ‘swollen’ shape of ‘NUVOLA’ has made the armchair an iconic item to gervasoni. the ‘05’ model features smaller dimensions – 80 x 90 cm – but remains equally as comfortable. this re-edit aims to met consumers’ desires for relaxation regardless of the space available.

CARVE wooden chair

the ‘CARVE 07’ is a small wooden chair, also distinguishable as a sculpture, with a tribal charm that evokes feelings of distant places. the irregularly hand-carved, curved backrest allows light to pass through the wood in a way that gives the chair an unexpected light character. these details ensure the design looks good even in the most simple and minimal spaces.

NEXT 18 sofa and CROSS small tables

finally in terms of seats, a new version of the ‘NEXT’ sofa, the ‘NEXT 18’, positions a higher backrest in two sizes (180 cm and 220 cm). original features of the design remains, particularly the sinuous line of the armrest, whilst the proportions provide a more composed and rigorous feeling. added to the backrest, comfortable cushions make the furniture even more comfortable.

CROSS 45 s table

the ‘CROSS’ collection of small tables are most notably thanks to their natural copper mesh rod. like a sheet of paper, the mesh is folded and shaped into four different configurations, each one intended for different uses. the design also features two bookcase elements: a single bookcase with shelves in copper, and the other composed of two uprights with copper and wooden shelves, which are available in all gervasoni finishes, as well as the new bleached oak option.

MOON round table and BRICK chairs

with a very particular character, the ‘MOON’ collection is a new family of tables round, square and rectangular – and side tables. their ceramic bases are characterized by the material’s irregular texture, which recalls the lunar surface, created by a special hand-finishing process. whilst the round tables feature a central base of large sculptural amphora to support an aluminum or marble top, the square and rectangular versions includes legs that are positioned at the corners. these, shaped like vases with classic curves, support a thin top available in bleached oak, marble or cast aluminum.

NEWS cofee table and MOON table options

composed of blue china paper and a black top, the ‘NEWS 108’ is a coffee table/pouf that illustrates its historic and exotic craft technique. in doing so, the design evokes the feelings of far away places and, in turn, decorates any corner of an interior with its colorful presence.

BRICK cupboards

concluding the company’s novelties for salone del mobile 2018, the ‘BRICK’ collection of open furniture, cupboards and drawers unveils a new and surprising aesthetic. its doors have become mirrored surfaces with the edge decorated with a sanded graphic pattern. the result creates a facade that resembles an icy effect, where reflections seem obscure and distant.

BRICK cupboards and drawers