How Le Corbusier Sofa by Cassina is made - BRANDMADE.TV

Summary

The LC2 sofa, designed by Le Corbusier in 1929, revolutionized modern furniture with its minimalist, functional design combining steel and leather. It broke away from the ornate Victorian styles, emphasizing simplicity and comfort with visible framework and plush cushions. Manufactured by the Italian company Cassina, the LC2 remains iconic for its innovative use of materials like chrome-plated steel and high-quality leather. Despite numerous imitations, only Cassina produces the authentic model, which continues to be a timeless symbol of sophistication and modern design.

Takeaways

• 😀 The LC2 sofa, designed by Le Corbusier in 1929, revolutionized modern furniture design by combining steel and leather for a new, minimalist aesthetic.
• 😀 The LC2 sofa is still considered one of the most iconic furniture designs of the 20th century, featured in architecture and design books worldwide.
• 😀 Le Corbusier's design philosophy was rooted in simplicity, rejecting the ornate Victorian style in favor of clean lines and basic forms.
• 😀 The LC2 sofa's design allowed for the framework to be visible, turning the sofa inside out, which was a bold departure from traditional furniture designs.
• 😀 Despite its initially provocative and bare design, the LC2 sofa quickly gained commercial success and became a symbol of modern design.
• 😀 The LC2 sofa is handcrafted by skilled metalworkers in Milan, Italy, where the chrome-plated steel frame is carefully bent and welded to precision.
• 😀 A unique welding process, called Fusion Welding, ensures the frame's strength by melting the ends of the tubes together while maintaining a consistent tube thickness.
• 😀 High-quality leather hides are meticulously inspected for defects, and digital laser cutting machines are used to efficiently cut the leather for the sofa.
• 😀 The leather is sewn by hand to maintain the LC2's clean and precise lines, demonstrating the importance of craftsmanship in the sofa's creation.
• 😀 Modern foam and polyester padding, including memory foam technology, enhance the comfort of the sofa, ensuring it retains its shape and remains fresh for years.
• 😀 The LC2 sofa's design has remained timeless and continues to be produced and shipped worldwide, symbolizing elegance and simplicity since its inception in 1929.

Q & A

What is the LC2 sofa known for in terms of design?

The LC2 sofa is known for combining steel and leather to create a modern and minimalist look. It was revolutionary when introduced in 1929, setting the standard for modern furniture design.

Why was the LC2 sofa considered provocative when it was first introduced?

The LC2 sofa was considered provocative because it was a complete departure from the ornate Victorian furniture popular at the time. It featured a minimalist design with exposed steel framework, which was seen as too simple and bare.

Who designed the LC2 sofa and what was his approach to architecture?

The LC2 sofa was designed by Swiss architect Le Corbusier. His approach to architecture involved using modern materials like glass, concrete, and steel, which he also incorporated into his furniture designs.

How does the LC2 sofa provide comfort despite its minimalist design?

The LC2 sofa is designed with a mechanically constructed frame that allows for sufficient space for foam, providing extreme comfort while maintaining its minimalist look.

What sets the LC2 sofa apart from other furniture designs of the time?

The LC2 sofa stands out because of its exposed framework, showcasing the steel tubing, and its sleek, simple design, which contrasted sharply with the highly decorative and elaborate furniture styles of the era.

What role does the Italian manufacturer 'Cina' play in the LC2 sofa production?

Cina, the renowned Italian manufacturer, is the only authorized company to produce the original LC2 sofa. They ensure that the sofa is made with the highest quality materials and craftsmanship.

What is the process for creating the steel frame of the LC2 sofa?

The steel frame is created through a detailed process, beginning with chrome-plated steel tubing that is bent into double curved elbows using a special machine. The pieces are then welded together using a fusion welding technique that ensures strong, precise connections.

How does Cina ensure the quality of the leather used in the LC2 sofa?

Cina carefully inspects each leather hide for imperfections, marking defects with different colors. A digital laser cutting machine is then used to efficiently cut the leather, ensuring that the highest quality materials are used in the sofa's production.

What materials are used for the cushions of the LC2 sofa?

The cushions of the LC2 sofa are stuffed with foam and a polyester batting. Additionally, memory foam technology is used to ensure the cushions retain their shape while providing optimal comfort.

How does Le Corbusier's design philosophy influence the LC2 sofa's enduring appeal?

Le Corbusier's design philosophy, focused on simplifying things to their basic truth, is reflected in the LC2 sofa's minimalist design. This timeless approach has made the sofa a lasting icon in modern furniture design.