In the vibrant era of 1960s Italian modernism, Tobia Scarpa and Afra Scarpa crafted a seating masterpiece that would redefine relaxation: the Cassina Soriana Lounge Chair. Rejecting the rigid frames and formal lines of mid-century seating, the Sorians emerged as a radical celebration of softness—an oversized, cloud-like chair wrapped in plush fabric, held together by sleek stainless steel rings. Today, Vintara Design’s faithful replica honors this iconic legacy, blending the Scarpa’s original organic charm with modern craftsmanship and sustainable materials. More than just a chair, the Soriana is a sanctuary of comfort, a piece of design history, and a statement of laid-back Italian luxury for contemporary homes.
The Design Legacy: Tobia & Afra Scarpa’s 1969 Masterpiece
In 1969, husband-and-wife design duo Tobia and Afra Scarpa collaborated with Cassina to create the Soriana Lounge Chair—a piece that embodied the free-spirited, experimental energy of 1960s Italy. Rejecting the constraints of traditional chair design, they envisioned a seat that felt like a “soft sculpture”: no hard edges, no wooden frames, just a voluminous cushion structure anchored by minimalist stainless steel rings.
The Soriana’s genius lies in its contrast: the soft, tufted fabric of the seat and back wraps around the body, while the polished metal rings provide structural integrity and a sleek industrial edge. This balance of warmth and rigidity made it an instant classic, beloved by design enthusiasts for its ability to feel both approachable and avant-garde.
Nearly 55 years later, the Soriana remains a cornerstone of Italian modernism. At Vintara Design, our replica meticulously recreates every iconic detail—from the Scarpa’s signature ring system to the plush tufted cushions—ensuring this timeless piece feels as revolutionary today as it did in 1969.
Iconic Design Features: Softness Meets Industrial Precision
The Cassina Soriana Lounge Chair is defined by two revolutionary design choices that set it apart from every other seat of its era:
1. Signature Stainless Steel Ring System
The Soriana’s most recognizable feature is its polished stainless steel ring hardware, which anchors the plush seat and back cushions together. Unlike traditional chairs that rely on wooden or metal frames, the Soriana uses these sleek rings to hold the cushion structure in place, creating a visual lightness that makes the chair appear to float. This system is not just decorative—it’s functional: the rings provide sturdy support while preserving the chair’s soft, organic shape.
2. Plush Tufted Cushion Design
The chair’s voluminous, tufted seat and back cushions are a masterclass in comfort. The deep button tufting (a nod to classic Capitonné design) creates a playful, sculptural silhouette while offering unparalleled enveloping softness:
- Sink-In Comfort: Filled with a blend of high-density polyurethane foam and down-alternative fiber, the cushions cradle your body, offering a “sink-in” sensation that feels like resting on a cloud.
- Ergonomic Support: The dense foam core prevents sagging, ensuring the chair retains its shape even after years of use, while the tufted pattern distributes weight evenly to support your back and hips.
- Sculptural Aesthetic: The rounded, oversized cushions turn the chair into a functional work of art, commanding attention without overwhelming the space.
Premium Materials: Softness That Lasts
At Vintara Design, we’ve crafted our Soriana replicas with premium materials that honor the Scarpa’s original vision while prioritizing durability and sustainability:
Fabric Options
We offer a range of tactile, high-quality fabrics to suit your style, all OEKO-TEX certified for safety and eco-friendliness:
- Bouclé (Lamb Fleece): The classic choice for the Soriana, this soft, fuzzy fabric amplifies the chair’s cloud-like feel, adding warmth and texture to any space.
- Performance Velvet: Buttery-soft and lustrous, velvet offers a sleek, luxurious look while being stain-resistant—ideal for families or pet owners.
- Organic Linen: Breathable and textured, linen brings a light, airy vibe to the chair, perfect for warmer climates or minimalist interiors.
Filling & Frame
- Cushion Filling: A blend of high-density recycled polyurethane foam and GRS-certified down-alternative fiber, balancing support and cloud-like softness while reducing environmental impact.
- Structural Frame: The internal support structure is crafted from FSC-certified solid wood and recycled stainless steel, ensuring the chair is built to last and fully recyclable at the end of its life.
Dimensions: Perfectly Proportioned for Modern Living
The Cassina Soriana Lounge Chair is designed to fit seamlessly into any space, with dimensions that balance comfort and versatility:
- Width: 100 cm (39.4 in)
- Depth: 110 cm (43.3 in)
- Height: 75 cm (29.5 in)
- Seat Height: ~35 cm (13.8 in)
The low seat height and deep depth make it ideal for lounging, while the compact footprint (100x110 cm) fits perfectly in:
- Reading Nooks: A single Soriana chair paired with a floor lamp creates a cozy spot to unwind.
- Living Rooms: Use two chairs to flank a coffee table, or combine multiple chairs to form a modular sofa.
- Bedrooms: Place at the foot of the bed for a luxurious spot to dress or relax.
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Home Offices: Add a touch of Italian luxury to your workspace, blending style and comfort.
Care & Maintenance: Preserving Your Soriana Chair
To keep your Cassina Soriana Lounge Chair looking and feeling its best for years to come:
Fabric Care
- Bouclé: Use a lint roller to remove pet hair or debris. Spot-clean spills with a dry cloth; professional cleaning is recommended for deep stains.
- Velvet: Vacuum regularly with a soft brush attachment. Blot spills immediately with a dry cloth; use a velvet-specific cleaner to restore the fabric’s nap.
- Organic Linen: Spot-clean with a mild detergent and damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals, and air-dry to prevent shrinkage.
Hardware Care
- Wipe the stainless steel rings with a dry cloth to prevent tarnish. Avoid water or harsh cleaners, as these can damage the metal’s finish.
General Care
- Fluff cushions weekly to maintain their plump shape.
- Rotate the chair every 3–6 months to ensure even wear.
- Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause fading.
FAQs
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Is the Cassina Soriana Lounge Chair a replica?Yes! This is a Vintara Design faithful replica of Tobia and Afra Scarpa’s 1969 original design for Cassina, crafted with premium materials and meticulous attention to detail.
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Can I customize the fabric or color?Absolutely! We offer a range of OEKO-TEX certified fabrics (bouclé, velvet, linen) and neutral colors to match your decor. Contact us to explore swatches and customization options.
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How long does production take?Our Soriana chairs are made to order, with a production lead time of 14–18 weeks. White-glove delivery is included, ensuring your chair arrives fully assembled and ready to enjoy.
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Is the chair suitable for families with kids or pets?Yes! Our performance velvet and bouclé fabrics are stain-resistant and durable, making them ideal for high-traffic spaces. The compact size also makes it easy to move if needed.
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What is the warranty?We offer a 10-year structural warranty on the frame and a 2-year warranty on the fabric and filling, ensuring your Soriana chair is built to last.
Final Thoughts
The Cassina Soriana Lounge Chair is more than just furniture—it’s a celebration of 1960s Italian modernism, of softness, and of the idea that comfort and style can coexist seamlessly. Tobia and Afra Scarpa’s 1969 vision remains as revolutionary today as it was half a century ago, and Vintara Design’s sustainable replica carries that vision into the 21st century.
Whether you’re a design enthusiast, a lover of cozy comfort, or someone who values timeless pieces that grow with you, the Soriana is more than a chair—it’s a sanctuary. It’s where you curl up with a book, where you chat with friends, and where you slow down and savor the quiet moments.
Ready to bring a piece of Italian design history into your home? Contact Vintara Design today to customize your Cassina Soriana Lounge Chair and experience cloud-like comfort reimagined.
