Bernhardt Design recently launched the Bombom collection by Francesco Favaretto - marking the Italian designer's American debut. The plush barrel chair was previewed at ICFF 2019 with much fanfare because it's incredibly comfortable - inspired by a German pastry similar to a donut, called a Kraphen.
Bombom is a distinctive lounge chair as comfortable as it is functional. Although function is nowadays often forgotten for the sake of aesthetic Favaretto has insisted on focusing on both. "It should be beautiful but also perfect for a nap and to rest our arms," he said.
"The chair is deceiving as it looks like a typical barrel chair and then you sit in it and you are shocked by how comfortable it is," stated Jerry Helling, President of Bernhardt Design. Bombom is a game of contrasts. "I liked the juxtaposition of having a very thin structural shell and a very generous interior. It is hard where it should be hard and soft when you are in it," Helling added.
This achievement is due to the absence of a metal structure inside a cushion made in injection molded polyurethane foam. The lower base is, on the other hand, supported by an angular swivel, build from a 25mm steel tubing. Very sturdy. From the stylistic tension between the informal and imposant soft organic cushion, justified by the formal precise nature of the structural frame, the chair seems to be held in levitation.
The softness goes hand in hand with the rounded shape of the cushions. Thus, Favaretto moves forward with the ongoing trend of sharp, rigorous, and dry lines. He emphasizes the absence of angles allowing Bombom's exterior and interior cushions to gracefully merge; creating a harmonious and playful form. On a whole, by focusing on its softness, Favaretto created a timeless seat that easily blends into any environment.
Photography: Courtesy of Bernhardt Design