September in the Philippines can be politically contentious largely due to former President Ferdinand Marcos’s declaration of Martial law on September 21. And this turmoil was reflected in many of the art exhibits BluPrint covered for the month. But for this round-up of art exhibits in September, BluPrint highlights artworks that explore the artists’ inner […]
Why Togo Sofas Remain a Unique and Timeless Classic
Beyond their practical functions, certain pieces of furniture are capable of embodying the cultural and aesthetic values of their era. But the classic vintage favorite Togo sofas did more than that. Among their revolutionary qualities, their distinctive playful silhouette changed the way we think about comfort and style in our homes.
Crafted From a Whimsical Idea
One morning in the bathroom, French designer Michel Ducaroy noticed the curvature form of his aluminum toothpaste tube. As he described, the object was “folded back on itself like a stovepipe and closed at both ends.” Who would’ve thought that this seemingly random observation would give way for the creation of the iconic Togo sofa?
Mirroring the toothpaste tube’s malleable shape, this sofa breaks several expectations of typical seating furniture. Aside from its plush, creased, and low-profile design, it features a ground-hugging base, eliminating the need for traditional legs. Ducaroy instead opted for an anti-slip blue and white striped fabric bottom to achieve a cleaner look.
Another signature detail is its organic, rounded shape, deviating from the more common square or rectangular forms. Three layers of pure polyurethane foam with varying densities make up its frameless structure. The hand-stitched seams and corners further define its unique blobby appearance. This makes it more relaxing and cushy, capable of molding to the body’s contours, compared to those with rigid, upright seating.
The Togo sofa made its debut in 1973 at the Salon des Arts Ménagers in Paris, introduced by the French manufacturer Ligne Roset. However, such an unconventional design was initially viewed with disbelief and suspicion. Even so, this Ducaroy classic received the prestigious Prix René-Gabriel design award for its excellent quality and affordability.
The Enduring Appeal of Togo Sofas
With its funky design and unparalleled coziness, Togo sofas have captivated the interest of design enthusiasts and comfort-seekers alike. And today, these furniture pieces have become an icon of vintage interior styles.
Made in large and small settees, footstools, fireside chairs, and corner seats, they quickly evolved into a cult item. Hippie groups, in particular, made them a symbol of their free-spirited lifestyle, leaving a significant cultural mark during the 70s. With the help of this patronage from the counterculture movement, Togo sofas turned into an icon of a laid-back living.
In addition to their recognizable shape and durability, they’re now available in different fabric and leather coverings and modular components. This allows them to be configured in various ways, adaptable to changing lifestyles and preferences.
Moreover, such versatility allows them to blend effortlessly not just with mid-century modern interiors but also with traditional and contemporary spaces. This is why they remain a prominent choice for afternoon snoozes and leisurely evenings.
Where to Buy Togo Sofas
To maintain their exclusivity and desirability, Lignet Roset limits the production of Togo sodas. Plus, they pride themselves with laborious and meticulous manufacturing processes to keep the furniture’s top-notch quality.
But lucky for you, there are several furniture stores here in the Philippines that offer these one-of-a-kind retro classic pieces.
MOs Design
Introduced in 2007, MOs Design is a home for renowned international brands of designer furniture. Located in Bonifacio High Street, Taguig, they feature signature pieces from BoConcept, Natuzzi Italia, Tom Dixon, and Ligne Roset. This includes the iconic Togo sofas, which come in fireside chair and footstool types. As a direct retailer of the product’s parent manufacturer, you can ensure the authenticity and quality of your Togo sofa.
Bauhaus Manila
Started in 2021, Bauhaus Manila is a furniture store known for their cushiony and streamlined products. Early in that same year, they first released a black leather Togo sofa on their Instagram account. After gaining traction, they began to offer more variations in neutral colors.
The store typically produces the furniture in leather, bailey flesh, chenille, and bouclé fabrics. But to make it truly personal, they allow customers to select their preferred material, color, size, and configuration.
Bauhaus Manila details that their Togo sofas are all faithful, locally handcrafted reproductions of the original design.
IPW Furniture and Fixtures
Opened in 2020, IPW Furniture and Fixtures has been providing affordable alternative house items for every Filipino household, including the ever sought-after Togo sofas. Ranging from about Php 22,000 to 60,000, they offer loveseats, ottomans, corner seats, and sets. You can even find them in various colors of nappa leather, flannel fabric, and corduroy to suit your desired aesthetic.
The shop clarifies that their Togo sofas aren’t produced by the original designers and associated parties. They also state that they don’t claim any third party trademarks.
Despite the ever-evolving landscape of interior design, Togo sofas have solidified their status as a timeless classic. Regardless of how you spend your leisure time, there is always a space for this beloved piece inside your home.
Read more: 5 Local Wood Furniture Shops in the Philippines to Explore
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BluPrint’s latest Ask the Experts panel discussion brought together esteemed minds of architecture to discuss two weighty topics for students today. The first examines how we can build a sustainable future for Philippine architecture. The latter debates the role of AI in architecture. This latest installment occurred at the College of St. Benilde (CSB) School […]
The Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID) celebrated its 60th Anniversary last October 5 at Centro de Turismo in Intramuros, Manila. Interior designers, architects, suppliers, and various industry partners attended the event held at the old San Ignacio Church, which PIID rehabilitated and transformed into the country’s tourism center. “In Chinese tradition, 60 years is […]
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