Italy 1935 – 2011
Italy 1937 –
Architects, designers
The Renowned design and architect couple Afra and Tobia Scarpa have created a legacy of great work which are still popular today,
Afra (b. 1937) is a skilled architect and designer, while Tobia (b. 1935) excels in both architecture and furniture design. Together, they crafted a distinctive style that balanced elegance with practicality.
Afra e Tobia Scarpa: Iconic Italian Designers Shaping Timeless Furniture
Afra (1937-2011) & Tobia (1935) Scarpa both studied at the Venice Institute of Architecture. Tobia first worked for the Italian glass manufacturer Venini. From 1960 on the couple opened their own design studio. Their work includes architecture and everyday items like furniture and clothing. Tobia & Afra Scarpa designed for numerous major Italian and international companies like Flos, Gavina, B&B Italia, Cassina and Knoll International.
Materiality and Craftsmanship: The Scarpa designs are known for their exceptional craftsmanship and the use of high-quality materials, including wood, leather, and glass. Each piece reflects a deep respect for both form and function.
Sculptural & Functional: Their furniture combines sculptural beauty with practicality, ensuring that each piece is not only a visual statement but also functional for everyday use.
Bold Geometry and Color: While embracing mid-century modern simplicity, the Scarpas experimented with angular shapes, bold colors, and contrasts, pushing the boundaries of traditional furniture design.
Iconic Pieces by Afra e Tobia Scarpa
Soriana Sofa (1969)
Designed for Cassina, the Soriana Sofa is a masterpiece of sculptural design, featuring soft, enveloping lines made of leather or fabric held by a metal frame. It revolutionized the idea of comfort and luxury in modern furniture.
Monk Chair (1979)
A prime example of the Scarpas’ minimalist approach, the Monk Chair features a simple wooden frame with leather straps, showcasing their skill in combining traditional materials with modern aesthetics.
The Artona collection for Maxalto (B&B Italia) (1975)
The Artona line by the Scarpa duo was the first line ever produced by Maxalto, the specialist division of B&B Italia. Maxalto was originally set up in 1975 as a high-end division of B&B Italia to focus exclusively on the production of artisanal, mostly wood furniture. The ‘Artona’ was their first project and also functions as a counter-message against the common prevailing use of plastics in furniture design during the postwar period.
Why Their Designs Are Still Relevant Today
Afra e Tobia Scarpa’s work remains highly coveted for its timeless elegance and functionality. Today, some of their iconic pieces are still in production, and many can be found in design museums and luxury collections. Their ability to merge bold design with durability makes their furniture adaptable to modern interiors.
Incorporating Scarpa Designs in Your Home
- Statement Pieces: Add iconic items like the Soriana Sofa or Artona table to serve as focal points in your space.
- Blend Modern and Vintage: Pair a Monk Chair with contemporary decor to create an eclectic yet harmonious look.
- Embrace Quality Materials: Opt for natural materials like wood and leather, as the Scarpas did, to bring warmth and sophistication into your home, and create a timeless ambience.
Afra e Tobia Scarpa’s legacy is a blend of art, function, and Italian craftsmanship. Whether for collectors or design enthusiasts, their timeless creations continue to inspire and elevate spaces around the world. Explore their work and experience the perfect harmony of beauty and practicality.