modular proportions define natuzzi dominio and oblò by maurizio manzoni

natuzzi italia‘s the circle of harmony collection is a search for balance and perfection. it seeks to define an ecosystem of design that displays a homage to beauty, inclusiveness, and the comparison between different creative interpretations of the renowned made-in-puglia brand. as such, the theme welcomes eight designers including marcantonio, claudio bellini, nika zupanc, maurizio manzoni, BYBORRE, mauro lipparini, paola navone, and fabio novembre. the designs blend the character of their designer with ethics, aesthetics, style, function, colors and materials true to natuzzi italia. these range from sofas to modular seating systems and from beds to table, lamps, and even a specific upholstery textile.

as a long time collaborator, maurizio manzoni’s affinity with the DNA of the brand has evolved once more with the natuzzi italia dominio and oblò sofas. designboom travelled to the brand’s home in puglia to find our more about the designs, process, and its relationship in the circle of harmony.

two configurations of the natuzzi italia ‘dominio’ sofa
all images courtesy of natuzzi italia

‘in terms of the connection with puglia, I was inspired by the forms of federician castles in the area. these shapes can be found on the sofa with its supporting backrest and also on its feet,’ maurizio manzoni tells designboom.

the natuzzi italia ‘dominio’ sofa is generously sized to distinguish a strong, reassuring image. the lines of its square, linear shapes are highlighted by a fabric border that surrounds its outer edges. at closer glance, its hexagonally-inspired forms become apparent on the metal tubular feet as well as the padded rollers on the rear of the back cushions.

hexagonal forms define the metal feet and padded rollers on the rear of the back cushions

‘domino [the predecessor] was one of the first sofas I created for natuzzi italia, and it still is a popular one. there was a need to revise it to add an even more contemporary touch. this was by updating the sofa’s proportions, creating a new lower seating position and adding more softness. it then became the dominio’ explains the designer. in the details of its new proportions, the sofa’s armrests are now available in two different sizes in both height and width. these wrap highly around the sitter to create a deep, cocooning seat.

its differently sized armrests creates a deep sitting position

thanks to its revised proportions, the sofa becomes the epicenter of the living space, your home. this is aided by its variety modules which can be endlessly configured to be used in a wide range of purpose and styles. whether in fabric or leather coverings, its high density polyurethane padding ensures maximum comfort. the resulting sofa harmoniously pairs functionality with aesthetics.

its modular elements enable the design to be adapted to fit different needs

‘I always stress the importance to stay true to the brand’s DNA, even when evolving a design,’ shares the designer. natuzzi italia’s furnishings blend artisanal yet innovative craftsmanship with timeless aesthetics. this is all in the aim to create pieces that are as warm, welcoming and comforting as the spaces they occupy – our own homes.

the sofa’s countless configurations help it to become the epicenter of your living space

the natuzzi italia ‘oblò’ sofa achieves this balanced appearance thanks to its highly organic shape. the curves of its backrest wraps around the user before abruptly and smartly finishing with sheer front surfaces. it defines a slender, modern look that entices you to sit. whether upholstered in leather or fabric, the design comfortably caters for different uses, whether formal or casual.

exampled with two configurations, the ‘oblò’ sofa appears with a highly organic form

its embracing design is achieved by the seamless union of its back and armrests, which come together to form a single rounded sofa. the soft, padded form is cradled by a metal tubular structure that appears as if a casket. it surrounds the back and armrests before concluding with slim feet. like the ‘dominio’, the ‘oblò’ features modular elements to offer many different configurations to match contemporary and classic domestic needs.

its soft padded form is supported by a thin metal frame

‘once again, I have been inspired by places which are the symbols of the culture and the traditions of this unique land,’ concludes maurizio manzoni on his latest collaboration with natuzzi italia, the ‘dominio’ and the ‘oblò’, for the circle of harmony.

its modular parts ensure the sofa can be adapted to fit different living spaces and needs