Space Makers: How to style luxury furniture and statement pieces, according to the head of interiors at Space Furniture

Over the years, the brand has developed longstanding partnerships with world-renowned designers and architects such as Antonio Citterio, Piero Lissoni, Patricia Urquiola, Naoto Fukasawa, Gaetano Pesce, and many others whose contributions have positioned it at the forefront of design.

What makes Italian furniture design so special?
Italian furniture design is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, the use of high-quality materials, and a dedication to longevity. What truly sets it apart is the ability to seamlessly blend timeless elegance with innovative design. Each piece is meticulously crafted, not only to be beautiful but also to stand the test of time in terms of both style and durability.

Please highlight some of your favourite pieces from the brand.
Two standout pieces from B&B Italia that I absolutely love are Tufty-Time and Eda-Mame. Tufty-Time, designed by Patricia Urquiola, is a modern classic. Its modular design allows incredible flexibility, making it perfect for both large, open spaces and more intimate settings. The quilted, tufted design gives it a distinctive appearance while the deep seats and plush cushions provide unmatched comfort. I love how it strikes the perfect balance between stylish and relaxed, making it a great centrepiece in any living room, including my own. It’s amazing that a design that has reached a 25-year milestone still plays such an important part in defining contemporary interiors.

Eda-Mame by Piero Lissoni is another favourite. Its organic, sculptural shape is inspired by the edamame bean, and it feels almost like a piece of art. The curves and asymmetry give it a bold, contemporary aesthetic. Whether used as a standalone lounge or paired with other seating, Eda-Mame brings a unique sense of fluidity and movement to any space.

How do you usually go about styling furniture from B&B Italia?
Styling pieces from B&B Italia is always a rewarding experience because each piece is designed with a distinct character and personality. Rather than following the direction of a single designer across a collection, every piece stands on its own, yet harmoniously complements the others. This allows for unique, curated interiors.

When styling, I start by assessing the key elements of the room, paying close attention to the architecture and understanding what the space requires. From there, I select the right pieces from B&B Italia’s collection, which offers enough diversity to ensure that each project feels unique. The result is always a thoughtful, cohesive design that responds to the space in a meaningful way.

Please share how you would incorporate some of these luxury furniture pieces throughout the home.
Functionality is essential when incorporating pieces from B&B Italia into different rooms, and it starts with understanding who the space is for. Knowing the homeowner or end-user informs the design direction and helps guide the selection of pieces from the collection. This initial question is key to ensuring that the fit-out aligns with their needs and lifestyle, making the design both practical and meaningful.

This approach applies across all types of interiors, be it residential, commercial, or hospitality, focusing on the specific use of each space and how designs and finishes can complement it.

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B&B Italia has some minimalist pieces as well as some more vibrant statement furniture. How would you go about styling the more maximalist pieces in a home?
When styling more maximalist pieces in a home, it’s essential to let those bold designs take centre stage without overwhelming the space. A strong statement piece can bring energy and character to a room, but the rest of the interior mustn’t compete with it.

Start by anchoring the space with the strongest piece, and then take a step back to balance the surrounding elements. Keep the rest of the décor more pared-back, allowing the maximalist piece to shine. I always think of Coco Chanel’s advice: “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.” This applies to interiors as well. When you have a bold, eye-catching piece, sometimes less is more in the rest of the room to ensure harmony and flow.

What's one piece in the collection that isn't usually the most popular but you personally really love?
Great question! Two pieces come to mind. First, although it’s now archived, the Frank Sofa was a personal favourite. Its comfort was unmatched, with a simple, approachable form that made it incredibly inviting.

The second is still in the collection: Terminal 1 by Jean-Marie Massaud. I love its sleek lines and defined shape. It’s a versatile piece that can either be a bold centrepiece or quietly complement a space as a sculptural element. Whether it’s front and centre or off to the side, Terminal 1 adds a unique, artistic touch to the interior.

What would you say makes B&B Italia stand out from other luxury furniture brands?
B&B Italia is committed to research and technology, and every product is the result of ongoing and intensive work with the best designers.

It’s also worth noting that the pieces designed over its 53 years of history have marked the evolution of the furniture sector on a global scale, with many of these becoming design icons that hold a spot in museums and prestigious public locations, serving as inspiration for future generations of designers.

Please tell us about a few key interior design projects that have incorporated pieces from B&B Italia.
I would like to share two standout residential projects in which B&B Italia’s collection played a crucial role in elevating the design and creating a cohesive interior. The first project is a remarkable residence in Sydney, situated near the harbour and Opera House. The objective was to maintain an open-plan layout while subtly dividing the living areas without building walls or heavy structures.

We used Piero Lissoni’s Dock Sofa as a strategic divider, perfectly positioned to enhance the harbour views while subtly defining the living space. To complement it, we installed the Jack shelving system, a minimalist floor-to-ceiling solution that added functionality without obstructing the views or the open feel of the room. This combination of B&B Italia pieces, alongside other curated items, allowed us to maintain the light and airy ambience while adding thoughtful spatial boundaries.

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The second project I wish to highlight is a contemporary five-bedroom home in Noosa, Australia, designed with a brutalist slant. The front of the house presents a discreet façade with no visible windows, while the private rear side is framed with glass, offering sweeping views from the hinterland to the coast. Here, it was essential to let the architecture shine, with the interiors serving as a harmonious complement.

One memorable feature is a long, gallery-like hallway that runs from the central spine of the home to the farthest living quarters. At the end of this hall, glimpses of a striped Series Up 2000 armchair draw you toward the games room, offering just a tease of its curves and form. This playful transition leads into a space anchored by the large Tufty-Time sofa and daybed, positioned to maximise the view. Designed for relaxation and fun, this area intentionally stands apart from the rest of the home, reflecting its distinct purpose.

In both projects, B&B Italia’s pieces not only enhanced the design but also helped define the overall experience of each space.

Drop by Space Furniture this month to browse these timeless pieces and more from B&B Italia, now on sale until 26 October 2024.

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