How does one define opulence in the world of furniture? Its definition is open to taste and interpretation. Gone are the days of gaudy, gilded pieces intended to flaunt one’s wealth. Today, it is all about craft, artisanal quality, appreciating the value of limited editions, and using expensive materials in a tasteful, selective way. Here are our selections of furniture and lighting pieces that celebrate the spirit of lavish extravagance.
Cabinet of Curiosities
Armani Casa “Royal Bar Cabinet”. Image: Armani Casa.
From the fashion maestro himself, Giorgio Armani’s interior-focused brand Armani Casa is the name to know when it comes to owning luxury furniture. Since its inception in the early 2000s, Armani Casa has come a long way. The Royal Bar Cabinet is sheer luxury because this hand-crafted cabinet only has 88 pieces made worldwide. The striking cabinet is a show-stopping piece with so many remarkable details found on this reimagined sécretaire with shutter closure. You can even use it as a compact office if you wish to. However, it is designed for the use of libation aficionados.
Shine, shimmer and luxurious details. Image: Armani Casa.
The bar unit is closed by two flexible doors that slide horizontally into the main structure, unveiling the working area replete with stylish shelves and a large drawer to hold preparation tools. The chic cabinet’s aesthetics are informed by some Oriental nuances and fashion inspirations. The cabinet is clad in a special weave made from paper and cotton, drawing references from Japanese tatami and textured fabrics so synonymous with the Giorgio Armani brand. Peer inside and you’ll notice the back-lit panels of gold-toned methacrylate adding movement thanks to their unique motifs, recalling marble veins and Mother of Pearl. Metal details are in light brass with a satin finish. What a way to serve cocktails to your guests and pique their curiosity to explore the stunning details of this cabinet.
www.armanicasa.com
Gator-clad Luxury
The “Zensational” croc-clad sofa. Image: Versace Home.
The Versace Home brand is renowned for its elegant pieces that provide a sophisticated ambiance and setting. One of the fashion house’s latest offerings is the “Zensational” modular sofa which is imbued with details drawn from mythology and classicism. The sofa’s exquisite crocodile-embossed leather is paired with Baroque prints and jacquard patterns, making the material the star of the show. The sofa also displays a tangram of shapes, patterns and other unique materials. Combined with decorative panels symbolic of the fashion house, this remarkable piece of modular sofa was a scene-stealer at the recent Salone del Mobile 2023 in Milan, Italy.
www.versace.com
Starry Night
Knoll “Spectrolite Blue” Saarinen Table. Image: Knoll.
To celebrate Knoll’s 85 years in the furniture design business, the American furniture brand unveiled a special series of Saarinen Tables in exclusive natural stones. Since it was designed in 1957, this enduring design now comes with an exclusive Spectrolite Blue Top: a magnificent granite that serves as a deep, black infinite space where specks of blue symbolising bright stars pepper the surface. Saarinen’s revolutionary collection of pedestal-based tables and chairs are still considered as one of the most iconic and memorable examples of post-war design. The new natural stone Spectrolite Blue Saarinen Tables are no doubt in a class of their own.
www.knoll.com
Furry Finest
The “Groove & Groovy” chair and ottoman. Image: Fendi Casa.
The “Groove & Groovy” chair designed by Toan Nguyen for Fendi Casa is visually pleasing to look at thanks to its inviting form. It beckons one to sit or lounge on it and be invited to partake in moments of solitude, reading or relaxation. The chair’s sheepskin upholstery — which can be opted in vibrant orange or yellow — gives the seat a visual lustre. But once you’re seated, the textural comfort will prime you to rest immediately. The stylish chair comes with a matching ottoman to elevate the experience as you put up your feet. The Groove & Groovy chair comes with a matt gunmetal base in a dual finish with a swivel mechanism in the footrest. Coming back from work and lounging in this chair is a luxe moment in itself.
www.fendicasa.com
Drama & Elegance
“Perseus” chandelier made by Barovier&Toso. Image: Barovier&Toso.
Renowned for their Venetian glass objects since 1295, Barovier&Toso is one of the most reputable brands for opulence when you’re looking for dramatic lighting for your home. The “Perseus” chandelier designed by Dutch creator Marcel Wanders is an explosive masterpiece. Made from many crystal elements and set in an asymmetrical game of arms, the construction is complex and requires meticulous work from the glass artisans.
“Perseus” chandelier will add opulence and drama to any space. Image: Barovier&Toso.
The Murano glass construction requires a compendium of glassmaking techniques which has been studied and researched by the brand for many centuries. This time-honoured process and the steps that go into creating this modern glass chandelier is no easy feat. The luxurious suspension light not only creates a spectacle in your space, it adds a touch of classy opulence that can withstand the test of time and trends.
https://barovier.com/en