The Design Icon of the week is Maralunga, a chair designed by architect and designer Vico Magistretti and winner of the Compasso d’Oro in 1979.

The winners of that year’s prestigious award are innovative and experimental projects on a formal, conceptual and structural level.
It should be remembered the cockpit of Munari, in which the man – or the user – gives character and personalizes everything.

Another project awarded that year and worthy of note is the Partentesi lamp by Achille Castiglioni and Pio Manzù (about which we wrote here).
In this case shape = function is the key concept: it is in fact the parenthetical shape of the structure that allows the suspended lamp to stay in place on a cable.

Maralunga is not far behind, it has in fact distinguished itself as a proposal of great structural interest.

This seat, available in armchair version, two- or three-seater sofa or pouf, is characterized by the idea of transformability: the backrest is bent inwards but with a simple movement it can be straightened by decisively increasing its height and making it an ergonomic headrest.

The movement is made possible thanks to the insertion of a simple bike chain in the structure that creates a fluid mechanism.

With the backrest lowered, this seat rejuvenates, gives the environment an informal and friendly tone. Raising the backrest instead transforms: the style of this version is decidedly relaxed and homely, with the back that is supported entirely and you can even rest your head.

Maralunga is entirely covered in fabric, the legs going up bend in the same style as the backrest becoming the armrest (without the possibility of transformation).

This formal continuity of lines and volumes gives the seat a sparkling but at the same time relaxed tone.

In addition, its transformability makes it a piece of furniture suitable for different situations and needs. Whether it’s a party with friends or a relaxed moment of reading, Maralunga will meet your needs.