Tobia Scarpa Bastiano sofa

This three-seat sofa from the ‘Bastiano’ series was designed by Italian architect and designer Tobia Scarpa and produced by Haimi in Finland. The design dates from the mid-century period and represents a fusion of Italian modernist sophistication with Nordic functionalism and craftsmanship.

The sofa is composed of a black lacquered wooden frame combined with loose cushions upholstered in the original red leather. The leather cushions display a soft, patinated surface with visible creasing and wear that correspond to the sofa’s age and use. The vibrant red of the leather contrasts sharply with the matte black frame, highlighting the modular design and structural clarity. The wear on the leather adds a layer of authenticity and texture, revealing its history while maintaining functional integrity.

The rectangular frame is built with clean, architectural lines, utilizing thick solid wood components connected by visible metal hardware. This construction underlines the separation between the load-bearing frame and the cushioning, a hallmark of Scarpa’s approach during this period. The vertical end posts extend above the backrest and rest on squared block feet, giving the sofa a grounded and stable profile.

Tobia Scarpa, born in 1935, is a leading figure in Italian post-war design, recognized for his collaborations with companies such as Cassina, B\&B Italia, and Flos. The Bastiano series was initially designed in the late 1960s for Gavina and later produced under license in several countries, including this Finnish edition by Haimi. Production by Haimi is relatively rare, making this version particularly noteworthy for collectors and those studying mid-century design.

Haimi was a respected Finnish furniture manufacturer known for its partnerships with avant-garde designers and dedication to meticulous woodworking and upholstery craftsmanship during the mid-20th century.

The sofa measures 210 cm in width, 80 cm in depth, and 67 cm in height, with a seat height of 35 cm. In imperial units, these dimensions correspond to approximately 82.7 inches wide, 31.5 inches deep, 26.4 inches high, and a seat height of 13.8 inches. The proportions are balanced, providing an architectural presence without overwhelming the space, and offering comfortable seating.