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A leading manufacturer of modern Italian furniture since the late 20th century, B&B Italia has distinguished itself through an industrial approach focused on high-tech production, new materials, and the reinvention of tradition. Its early experiments with rattan would later influence the Canasta series by Patricia Urquiola in 2007, marking the official launch of the B&B Italia Outdoor collection. What followed was a deeper exploration of B&B Italia’s design legacy and a curated expansion of pieces to complement the growing outdoor line.
For instance, classics like Tobi-Ishi by Barber Osgerby were re-engineered for outdoor use, joining new designs in stone, aluminium, leather, and sculpted wood. The Tobi-Ishi Outdoor collection draws inspiration from the smooth ornamental stones of Japanese gardens, balancing sculptural form and serene functionality.
Softcage, meanwhile, revisits Mario Bellini’s visionary 1975 concept that redefined rattan as a luxury material. In this modern reinterpretation, handcrafted rattan is paired with contemporary proportions, preserving Bellini’s timeless elegance while reflecting B&B Italia’s forward-looking innovation.
Softcage
Other standouts include the Borea collection by Piero Lissoni. The range features a lightweight tubular aluminium frame that is both durable and endlessly recyclable, with upholstery made from polyester fibre derived from recycled PET bottles. Each armchair uses 280 bottles (1,500 ml), while the two-seater and three-seater sofas use 390 and 510 bottles respectively.
The development of the outdoor collection has also sharpened B&B Italia’s focus on circular materials and processes—enhancing longevity and recyclability in every product.
Another Italian design house bridging the indoors and out, Edra introduced its vision for open-air living with the Every Stone upholstery collection at Milan Design Week this year. The result of ongoing research into material innovation, the project was led by vice-president Monica Mazzei.
The collection features nine materials inspired by the brilliance of precious stones, with colour infused directly into the yarn for lasting vibrancy. Shades such as Alpine Green, Nero Marquinia veined with silver, Carrara Statuary White, and Royal Yellow were unveiled in the courtyard of Palazzo Durini Caproni di Taliedo in Milan. The richly textured palette enhances the sculptural lines and softness of sofas such as On the Rocks, Sherazade, and Standard—signalling, in true Edra style, a bold new chapter for outdoor lounging.
B&B Italia Outdoor and Edra are available exclusively from Space Furniture in Australia, Singapore, and Malaysia.
