"S1" Sofa by Percival Lafer, Brazilian Mid-Century Modern

The S1 sofa is a distinctive example of the work of Brazilian designer Percival Lafer, who is celebrated for his innovative use of local materials and modern design principles that characterized Brazilian furniture design in the mid-20th century. Lafer's designs are often recognized for their combination of traditional and contemporary elements. The sofa presented here, with their clear modernist lines and rich wooden frames, typify this blend. The wood, native Brazilian hardwood, is dark and lustrous, giving the sofa a solid and grounded appearance. The frame showcases the beauty of the wood grain, a signature element in Lafer's work, reflecting his appreciation for natural materials and their aesthetic qualities. The sofa is still in his original mustard fabric.

About the designer: Percival Lafer is a renowned Brazilian furniture designer whose work significantly contributed to the modernist movement in Brazil. Born in 1936, Lafer was originally trained as an architect at São Paulo's Universidade Mackenzie. However, the unexpected passing of his father led him to take over the family furniture business with his brothers, which catalyzed his shift to furniture design in 1961. His first notable design, the MP-1 Armchair, was launched the same year and became a hit for its innovative use of materials and design. This chair featured a steel base wrapped in rosewood and was upholstered with foam rather than traditional springs. This design approach epitomized Lafer's principle of creating fine design that was accessible and affordable. Lafer also pioneered in the mechanical furniture movements, creating the MP-7 sofa in 1965, which could transform into a twin bed-the first of its kind on the market. Beyond furniture, he even ventured into automotive design with the MP Lafer, a fiberglass roadster inspired by British sports cars. His work has enjoyed international success, with his designs being exported globally, making him one of Brazil's leading furniture exporters. A retrospective of his work was featured in the São Paulo Design Weekend in 2017, celebrating his long-standing influence in the field of design. Percival Lafer's legacy continues, with his seating designs remaining highly sought after for their unique blend of modern shapes and local Brazilian materials​

Literature: Percival Lafer "Design, industria e mercado", Olhares, Renata Golombek, 2018