J’sofa
JOUFFRE et JI
Identify a historical piece of furniture to update according to the brand characteristics and principles of Jouffre.
In 1987, having worked with the world’s most demanding decorators, Charles Jouffre established Jouffre in Lyon, birthplace of the silkstuffs industry. Since then, Ateliers Jouffre perpetuates the fine tradition of the upholsterer’s profession, blending know-how and French luxury across the world from their ateliers based in Lyon, Paris, Rabat and New York. Ranging from historical to contemporary, the Jouffre ethos yields an aesthetic of exquisite craft, clean tailored lines, and unexpected details. In the words of designer Maxime D'Angeac, “[Jouffre] has reinvented the chair and seating culture. [They] have given it a modern touch while maintaining an extremely assiduous savoir-faire.” (2023)
SCAD students enrolled in Soft Furnishings in winter 2024, have the unique opportunity to learn from the masters at Ateliers Jouffre, analyze the brand principles, study the design process through a one day visit to the New York atelier. Students are then invited to develop a design concept for Jouffre based on a historical form. This project requires research, analysis, creative development and professional-level delivery.
Pierre Paulin (1927-2009)
Pierre Paulin was a renowned French furniture designer and interior designer who gained international acclaim during the mid-20th century for his innovative and sculptural creations. His designs blended organic forms with functionality, showcasing a futuristic aesthetic that often utilized materials like foam, steel, and stretch fabrics. Paulin's pieces challenged traditional notions of furniture design, characterized by fluid and dynamic shapes.
Mushroom Chair (1963)
The Mushroom Chair, an emblematic symbol of 1960s modernism, embodies a distinctive organic shape reminiscent of a mushroom or half-sphere. Pierre Paulin aimed to challenge conventional furniture design by embracing soft, curvilinear forms over rigid geometries with this iconic piece. Its unique silhouette reflects Paulin's vision of sculptural furniture that blends seamlessly with its environment, exuding a playful yet sophisticated design. Reflecting the era's fascination with space-age aesthetics, the Mushroom Chair gained widespread presence in homes, offices, and public spaces, solidifying its iconic status as a furniture piece.
FIRST EXPLORATION
Surrounding Expanded Designs:
These designs reinterpret the core idea of the mushroom chair in diverse ways.
Sofa Forms: By extending the mushroom’s curves into elongated and broader shapes, these pieces cater to practical uses in family spaces or lounges.
Unique Chairs: Some variations incorporate creative backrests and leg designs, adding an artistic and experimental dimension.
The variety of curves and details explore how the organic mushroom shape can evolve into other furniture styles while retaining its essence.
Among the designs, one concept was selected for further development, focusing on enhancing its form, function, and aesthetic appeal.
fIRST DEVELOPMENT
final DEVELOPMENT
This design has evolved into a more realistic and practical form, emphasizing physical comfort and ergonomic suitability. Inspired by the organic curves of the mushroom chair, it has been reimagined as a unique yet functional modular sofa. The key features include:
Ergonomic Adjustments
Optimized seat height, backrest angle, and armrest positions provide comfort for users of various body types.
Smooth curves offer natural support, designed to help users relax and unwind.
Functional Modularity
The modular structure allows flexible combinations to adapt to different living room layouts.
The curved design is versatile, suitable for individual seating as well as accommodating multiple users.
Harmonious Design
Gentle, natural curves add warmth and an organic ambiance to the space.
The clean and uncluttered form reduces visual clutter while maintaining sophistication, emphasizing comfort and practicality.
User-Centric Design
Armrests and backrests are thoughtfully integrated to provide practical comfort without unnecessary bulk.
Smooth curves and seamless connections are not only visually appealing but also designed for ease of use.
This design focuses on ergonomic needs and practicality, successfully connecting artistic exploration with real-world functionality. It retains its original inspiration while evolving into a practical, market-ready piece of furniture.
