Description
The Allen sofa is a perfect example of what Minotti means by “sofa”: an object defined by its smooth lines and proportions, its added height from the floor, and the functionality of its dimensions, without sacrificing soft lines and rounded shapes, especially where the arms are concerned. Even though it’s a product of design, Allen is certainly not lacking in comfort, thanks to the high back that offers total support for the back and the head. Internal padding of the arms and back is molded, while the reversible seat cushion is covered in goose down. The feet, made of molded, die cast aluminium, describe a sinuous line, proof that the classical concept is inherent to Minotti’s DNA.
Spotlight on feet: made of die cast aluminium, in Pewter colour (a shade created by Minotti Studio) they have sinuous lines and classic structure, in both proportions and materials. Molded, they are the result of technological research and reinforce the association between Minotti and uniqueness. In terms of foot placement, they’re seen in profile when the sofa is viewed from the front, while the flat surface is visible when the sofa is viewed from the back or side. A totally new design concept: unlike traditional chaise longues that form the end unit of a seating composition, this element already possesses a “hint” of the sofa in its shape. Thanks to its “L-shaped” design, it foreshadows the sofa and carries it forward. Minotti also solves the problem of overlapping feet in the corner, and preserves the purity of design. A sense of clarity enhances the value of this piece in a key area of home living - the place for socializing with friends and enjoying family companionship.
Designer
Rodolfo Dordoni
The strategic collaboration between Minotti and Rodolfo Dordoni, architect and designer from Milan, began back in 1997.
Rationalist architect and professional with a multi-faceted personality, Rodolfo Dordoni met Renato and Roberto Minotti towards the end of the nineties. The Minotti brothers immediately considered Rodolfo Dordoni’s cultural background, professional experience and sensitivity as an interior decorator the ideal basis for forging a strong relationship. The challenge that faced them was to create a new vision of the company.
So, in 1997, Rodolfo Dordoni presented his first collection of seats, tables and coffee tables, including Suitcase, the iconic cubic armchair freely inspired by the world of fashion and luggage-making. A successful design, rigorous and non-conventional, which marked the beginning of a consolidated relationship that has spanned more than twenty years and shows no signs of slowing down.
The next year, in 1998, he was nominated Art Director and coordinator of all the company’s collections. This marked a turning point that launched him on a pathway of continuous research, guided by the values of coherence, determination, passion and enthusiasm. Over the years, it led to the definition of a full range for the home, designed for both indoor and outdoor environments and for Hospitality spaces, fully interpreting the concept of “collection” and “lifestyle”.
Year after year, collection after collection, this collaboration has played a part in reinforcing the brand identity and in giving the collections a feel of exclusivity, carrying a strong message of quality and fine Italian craftsmanship all round the world, by innovating and creating continuity.
The collaboration has also extended to designing the stands for the various editions of the Salone del Mobile in Milan and Shanghai and the fair in Cologne, as well as the creation of spaces such as the Minotti New York flagship store, opened in 2010, and the company showroom installed in the headquarters in Meda in 2012.
His many iconic indoor and outdoor furniture designs created since he began working with the company over 20 years ago have recently been joined by some new additions - the Connery and Blazer indoor and the Sunray outdoor seating systems - all characterised by pure volumes, sharp geometries and a haute couture approach to sartorial craftsmanship - along with a myriad of furnishing solutions, small furniture and accessories.