Genius or Bizarre
Bottega Veneta has always pushed boundaries when it comes to merging fashion with design, but their latest runway show for Spring/Summer 2025 took things to an unexpectedly whimsical level. Under the creative direction of Matthieu Blazy, the brand unveiled a delightful twist on classic seating, transforming the iconic Zanotta Sacco chair into an animal-filled spectacle.
Originally crafted in 1968, the Sacco chair revolutionized casual comfort and was awarded the prestigious Compasso d’Oro Lifetime Achievement award in 2020. Blazy, however, saw a unique connection between this legendary design and Bottega Veneta’s signature bags—both share softness, flexibility, and a malleable form. He was particularly drawn to how sitting low to the ground in these bean bag-like chairs gave viewers a different perspective on the world around them.
Blazy described the collection as a “sense of wonder” that transports people into a playful realm of comfort and charm. “These chairs aren’t just for sitting—they’re companions,” he noted. And true to the theme of Noah’s Ark, each animal design was created in pairs, symbolizing the famous “two by two” procession.
For those looking to bring this imaginative world into their homes, the first pieces from “The Ark” collection became available on Bottega Veneta’s website in September 2024, with the next launch set for Design Miami in December. But the question remains: Will these chairs, which at first glance may seem bizarre or genius, actually reshape the way we interact with our living spaces?
Ultimately, Blazy’s animal bean bags are more than just quirky decor—they represent a call to reimagine our spaces with lightheartedness and joy, blending art, design, and a touch of nostalgia. After all, what could be more luxurious than reconnecting with the playful spirit we so often forget in our pursuit of sophistication?