Cleo

Overview

Cleo is a modular seating system, produced by Molteni&C and designed by the architect Vincent Van Duysen. It combines rectilinear, angular and self-standing elements, and its fluid curvilinear shell envelops the seat and back. The page says it balances elegance with warmth and relaxation, from intimate corners to open-plan arrangements.

Construction

The datasheet lists an external structure of plywood panels and wood cellulose fibreboard panels with thermosetting synthetic resin, covered in velveteen bonded with polyurethane. The padded back has a plywood and Polimex frame, the seat cushion is polyurethane foam with polyester fibre, and the back cushions are polyester fibre; cushion covers are 100% cotton. The feet are pewter-colour metal, 8 or 10 cm high.

Specifications

• Representative sofa SDI21 (210 cm): W 210 × D 100 × H 67 cm (67: unmarked on the sheet)
• Other sofa widths: 240 and 280 cm
• Seat depth: 85 cm for the structure alone, about 65 cm with the back cushion
• Back cushions: CCS45 (40 × 40 cm), CCS55 (55 × 50 cm) and CCS75 (75 × 50 cm)

A frame that embraces

The datasheet places the frame at the heart of the project: it is used for each individual component, and its curvilinear shell, recalling a cosy place, embraces seat and back without a break. The shell and the seat cushions are upholstered in textiles or leather, and combining two materials can either contrast or emphasise the harmony of the two parts.

Floating in the room

According to the datasheet the thin varnished steel feet are designed to make the sofa look like an object floating in the living area, so that it can stand at the centre of the room. The page speaks of a light, floating presence, whether Cleo is against a wall or in the middle of a living area.