Celebrating the influence of furniture pioneer, Charlotte Perriand, Cassina seeks to reinterpret her iconic designs and give them a modern twist
During a difficult pregnancy that required bed rest, Charlotte Perriand found it challenging to locate a comfortable armchair that would allow her to continue reading, writing, and designing. Proving that necessity is indeed the mother of invention, the pioneering French architect and designer collaborated with Cassina S.p.A.—the Italian manufacturing company founded in 1927 in Meda, approximately 20 km from Milan—to create what would become the iconic chaise longue.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Charlotte Perriand Collection, a celebration of her signature concept art de vivre et d’habiter, or “the art of living and dwelling.” The philosophy champions a holistic design approach that enhances interiors, architecture and the overall ambiance of a space—balancing artistic expression with everyday functionality.
Perriand was a visionary well ahead of her time, known for integrating art with practical living. Her work consistently emphasised functionality and the thoughtful use of materials—key tenets of modernist design.
After studying at the Académie de la Grande Chaumière in Paris, she began her career in the 1920s, working alongside celebrated figures such as Le Corbusier and Pierre Jeanneret. In addition to developing the iconic chaise longue, she created furniture pieces defined by clean lines, ergonomic forms and a harmonious fusion of industrial materials and craftsmanship.
Her legacy remains a cornerstone of contemporary design. This year, Cassina honours her memory by collaborating with her daughter, Pernette Perriand-Barsac, to revive and reinterpret several of her most iconic works for today’s audience.
Reimagining Perriand
Leading the collection is the original 1943 chaise longue, now reimagined with a painted tubular metal frame and updated upholstery components crafted from innovative, circular materials. The design comprises three curved segments connected by fasteners, resulting in the aerodynamic, architectural silhouette of the Indochine chaise longue. Armrests seamlessly extend from the base, enhancing the visual and structural harmony. For added comfort, the cradle features elastic webbing that supports the seat, heightening its cocoon-like appeal.
Also updated is the 1938 Table Montparnasse, named after the Parisian district and part of Perriand’s famed en forme libre (freeform) series—tables designed to optimise space while accommodating more guests. Standing on just three legs, the table is impressively stable, topped with Perriand’s emblematic asymmetrical surface. In this latest edition, Cassina offers two matte-finished woods: natural Canaletto walnut and black-stained ash, each highlighting the table’s tactile charm and sculptural profile. Only seven original examples were made between the 1940s and 1950s; one now resides in the Centre Georges Pompidou, while the others are held in esteemed private collections.
Another highlight is the Ventaglio table, reissued as a limited edition of just 30 pieces as part of Cassina’s iMaestri collection. Crafted from 14 adjoining planks in natural Canaletto walnut, the design preserves Perriand’s original construction technique. The updated version features square legs and fine-edged tops with wooden joints that mirror the table’s structure—subtle details that speak to the sophistication of the craftsmanship.
Cassina also revisits the Rio low table, offering it in a fresh selection of finishes. The distinctive top is formed by six offset segments with varying radii, creating an articulated outer rim and a central aperture—conceived as a spatial focal point. Material options range from black-stained oak with natural Viennese cane to luxurious marble finishes in polished or matte Sahara Noir, polished black Marquina or white Carrara.
This story first appeared in the May 2025 issue. Purchase it as a print or digital copy, or consider subscribing to us here
