Zanotta opens a new chapter in its history with a series of collaborations that broaden the brand’s creative horizons while remaining true to its founding mission: combining innovation, design culture, and Italian artisanal quality.
Among the key new contributors is Vincent Van Duysen, the renowned Belgian architect and designer known for his sensory and refi ned approach, capable of transforming design into an intimate, measured experience. The result of this encounter is Fedrigo —a system of modular and monobloc sofas and poufs—that expresses the synthesis of two worlds: on one hand Van Duysen’s classical and enveloping vision; on the other Zanotta’s radical and intellectual spirit.
“Clearly, Zanotta's formal and linguistic heritage is a rich one. The brand has collaborated with the greatest masters of Italian design, and some of its iconic pieces have crossed the ages to the point of becoming an integral part of our cultural landscape. As I often say, it's all about synergy. I approach each collaboration as a relationship, in which I immerse myself deeply to capture the essence of the brand I'm working with. This first collection for Zanotta represents a precious opportunity for me. To contribute, in my own way, to the history of this iconic house.”— said Vincent Van Duysen
Fedrigo stems from a design concept that places comfort at its core: the fluid lines of the backrest merge seamlessly into the armrests, while the generous proportions and the visual lightness of the ensemble evoke an immediate sense of welcome. The cushions, designed to ensure maximum ergonomics, complete a system where every detail is crafted to promote wellbeing.
The Fedrigo project involved Zanotta’s Research & Development team, with the goal of achieving the ideal balance between form, function, and sustainability.
The sofa’s supporting structure in plywood is filled with CIRCULARREFOAM® — a polyurethane foam made using recycled polyols. This choice, reflecting a responsible production ethos, is complemented by a cover in recycled PET fibre secured with velcro, as is the final fabric upholstery, which is divided between the seat and the backrest. The entire modular system is fully disassemblable, making it easier to recycle or recover materials at the end of its life cycle, and avoiding the use of industrial adhesives. Additionally, the fully removable upholstery facilitates easy maintenance and enables replacement over time.
“The main challenge was how to integrate Zanotta's DNA while proposing a concept that made sense to them and to me. Right from the briefing, which was very clear, our proposal found a favorable echo, which reinforced our confidence. However, in any creative process, you have to remain flexible, and know how to trust in the expertise of craftsmen and in your personal intuition. I approached this collection as a real challenge from the outset, because it meant exploring a sofa system that was totally new to my design practice.” — Vincent Van Duysen
With Fedrigo, Zanotta refreshes its design language while remaining firmly aligned with the brand’s heritage values. A collection that speaks of elegance, intelligent design, and a commitment to sustainability—projecting the brand’s identity towards new and meaningful directions.
Lifestyle photo: Luca Caizzi