Gilda Armchair

Turin architect Carlo Mollino created the Gilda Armchair in 1954 for the furniture brand Zanotta. After more than 50 years, it has already become a 21st century classic.

In the design of this armchair the author resorts to the curve looking for lightness to such an extent that it seems to gravitate before touching the ground.

Carlo Mollino’s designs, self-defined as “aerodynamic surrealist” , have an influence on the world of cars and aviation and Gilda armchair is no exception.

The structure, legs and arms are made with oak wood stained with oak or Canaletto walnut stained.

The joint irons are made in brass brass and contrast with the woody structure.

Both the seat and the backrest are made with a Dacron Du Pont polyurethane that is lined in leather of various colors.

The seat backrest can be adjusted in four different positions to ensure maximum comfort and relaxation.

The padding and leather lining of the central parts contrast and provide a unique balance and an austere and at the same time attractive appearance.

At first glance, it draws attention to the cozy seat and very aerodynamic armrests.

It perfectly combines aesthetics and functionality and, in this way, we can say that it is a piece of furniture that not only has an attractive appearance , but is practical and comfortable < / strong>. Perhaps this is the key that has made this classic of the 50s reborn and has made it fashionable in the 21st century.

We have included it in one of our projects and we are lucky to have one in our studio. So we can give first hand accounts of its beauty and extreme comfort.

About the author Carlo Mollino

Carlo Mollino was born in Turin on May 6, 1905 and during his youth he became interested in disciplines as different as architecture, furniture design, photography, skiing, racing cars or aeronautics.

In his works the sinuous line predominates, almost aerodynamics and the modern reinterpretation of artisanal techniques.

The design has marked his career, whether designing houses, cars or furniture, such as the Gilda armchair of the Italian brand Zanotta . He has received several awards for his works. In 1930 he received the G.Pistono award for designing the Marmi Forte house. He participated in the 24 hours of Le Mans in 1954 with the Bisiluro race car, designed by himself. In the 60s he designed his famous works, the Chamber of Commerce and the Teatro Regio, both in Turin.

About Zanotta

It is an Italian furniture company founded in 1954 by Aurelio Zanotta who is known for having in his portfolio with iconic pieces of Italian design such as the Gilda armchair. Works produced in the 60s, 70s and 80s. Its headquarters are located in Nova Milanese, in the province of Monza and Brianza.

Zanotta products have been awarded the Compasso d’Oro awards in 1967, 1979 and 1987.

Since the founder’s death in 1991, the company has remained under the reins of his three children Eleonora, Francesca and Martino. In 2017, the furniture company Tekno bought 80% of Zanotta shares. However, the two companies maintain differentiated production and design.