Array

From a shared ambition, Italian furniture manufacturer MDF Italia and Norwegian architecture and design studio Snøhetta have collaborated to design and develop Array – a modular sofa system designed to offer maximum flexibility without compromising comfort in a more responsible way. The project started with the question, “How can we design a sofa for the future, while maintaining comfort?”. The system comprises four coffee tables and seven slim, interconnected modules that seamlessly adapt to various contexts, allowing unique configurations and spatial possibilities. Array’s structure consists of a layered approach, starting in the core with an injection moulded base in recycled polypropylene. Within the center of the base, a hollow cavity minimizes the product weight and use of material and foam as much possible. The seat and backrest are moulded in bio polyurethane foam composed of 51% recycled material, and designed to maximise comfort. A key thought stemming from that initial question is that comfort is a broader topic and does not only concern softness or ergonomic comfort, but includes the entire usage, including modularity and flexibility in planning the modules in an intuitive manner, being able to easily move and reconfigure compositions, and having the possibility to reupholster and repair modules if needed. That’s why the upholstery is fixed with a fastening system at the bottom of the module, using elastic bands to easily disassemble and repair, replace or recycle parts. Each element of Array has been thoughtfully designed with the aim of promoting longevity, reducing the material usage over time and consequently limiting the CO2 footprint. The linear and curved modules can be used for both domestic and contract environments, allowing to create high visual impact compositions. Array reimagines the conventional sofa, embodying a progressive approach towards more conscious furniture design and innovation.