Kensington

Overview

Kensington is an armchair by Rodolfo Dordoni, listed under 2018 on the maker's datasheet. According to the page, Dordoni reinterprets the tradition of the classic Bergère through the lens of contemporary Italian design, in a high and a low version, with a footrest.

Image source: Molteni&C — Kensington · © Molteni&C and the respective rights holders. Quoted to accompany INTEBEE's independent design commentary and research. · View official product page ↗ · Image use & copyright policy

Construction

Per the page, the gently sloping frame sits on a central four-spoke metal base, an enveloping outer shell gives a sense of privacy, and inside a softly foamed frame provides the comfort. The datasheet gives the base as laser-cut, welded and painted steel in a glossy pewter colour, with non-slip plastic feet tips.

Specifications

• High-back armchair (KPA codes): 83 cm wide and 84 cm deep; the drawing's tallest vertical value is 109 cm, which is not labelled on the drawing
• Low-back armchair (KPB codes): 83 cm wide and 84 cm deep, tallest vertical value 78 cm
• KPF1 pouf: 61 x 46 cm in plan; the vertical value 42 cm is not labelled on the drawing

A relaxing armchair with enveloping lines

The datasheet introduces Kensington as a relaxing armchair with enveloping lines and calibrated proportions that one can simply sink into. An all-in-one frame with generous armrests supports an ergonomic seat, and the central four spokes hold up the frame, which slopes slightly, for extra comfort.

Leather shell, leather or fabric inside

The sheet describes a high degree of personalisation: the leather-clad outer shell can be combined with an inner frame also clad in leather, for a mono material effect, or with an inner frame covered in one of the fabrics of the Molteni&C collection for contrast.