Antonio Citterio sofa

The Diesis sofa, designed by Antonio Citterio in collaboration with Paolo Nava and introduced by B&B Italia in 1979, represents a foundational moment in the evolution of contemporary Italian furniture design. Characterized by a distinct fusion of technical rigor and visual clarity, this model is notable for its exposed structural frame, innovative material use, and modular configuration.

The frame is constructed from polished aluminum, providing both structural lightness and a refined industrial aesthetic. The legs and cross-beams are sharply engineered, revealing the mechanical logic of the piece while also contributing to its sculptural appearance. Resting on this base are soft, voluminous cushions upholstered in a neutral white fabric, offering comfort without compromising the formal clarity of the design. The cushions are designed to retain their shape, using high-resilience materials that support both function and form over time.

Leather elements—used along the seat backs and armrests—introduce warmth and contrast to the otherwise technical composition. These natural leather panels, aged gracefully over time, offer a tactile and visual counterbalance to the sleek metallic frame. The upholstery and detailing are executed with the precision characteristic of B&B Italia’s production standards, highlighting the firm’s commitment to innovation and quality.

Antonio Citterio’s design language in the Diesis sofa integrates a timeless approach to modernism, emphasizing adaptability, proportion, and comfort. This piece exemplifies the movement toward open structures in late 20th-century furniture, where the functional skeleton becomes a visible and celebrated part of the aesthetic experience.

The dimensions of the sofa are 210 cm in width, 95 cm in depth, 76 cm in overall height, and 37 cm in seat height. In imperial units, this translates approximately to 82.7 inches wide, 37.4 inches deep, 29.9 inches high, and 14.6 inches seat height.