Italian design house Zanotta introduces Yori-Kiri, a new bergère by Francesca Lanzavecchia, unveiled at Milan Design Week 2025. Paired with a matching pouf, Yori-Kiri invites users to 'slow down and carve out a moment for oneself,' blending technology, craftsmanship, and timeless design for sophisticated European interiors.
© Zanotta
The name Yori-Kiri is inspired by a Japanese sumo technique that exemplifies "strength, balance, and control," qualities mirrored in the armchair's sculptural yet inviting form. Lanzavecchia explains, 'The main challenge was to create a piece that would integrate naturally into the Zanotta collection, respecting its design heritage while maintaining a distinctive identity.' She adds, 'Yori-Kiri responds to a previously unexplored need within the range: it is a bergère conceived to offer absolute comfort, the perfect place to relax and feel embraced.'
The bergère's design features 'generous padding and curved armrests that extend to wrap around the backrest,' striking 'the perfect balance between geometric rigour and soft, welcoming forms.' Measuring 87 cm wide, 105 cm high and 99 cm deep, Yori-Kiri offers ample seating without compromising on proportion. Its adjustable mechanism allows the backrest to recline smoothly or lock into any position, "with intuitive ease," all while maintaining a clean, uninterrupted silhouette.
'Comfort is not just about softness, but also about engineering (innovation): the reclining mechanism in Yori-Kiri enables you to find the perfect position naturally, without any intrusive technical components,' states Lanzavecchia. 'The goal was to create an object in which technology remains invisible, yet is clearly felt through use, turning every moment of relaxation into a wellness ritual.'
In line with Zanotta's sustainability ethos, the chair's frame is crafted from steel, with padding made from self-extinguishing polyurethane foam incorporating plant-based polyols. The back cushion is filled with recycled PET fibre, and the fabric upholstery is fully removable for ease of maintenance. The bergère rests on a glossy, lacquered metal swivel base, available in a refined palette including talc, hemp, orange, algae, amaranth, and black.
The coordinating pouf shares the same construction principles, offering a harmonious complement to the bergère with dimensions of 74 cm wide, 37 cm high, and 58 cm deep.
Yori-Kiri represents Zanotta's commitment to fusing innovation, sustainability, and artisanal tradition, providing a versatile piece suited to both residential and hospitality environments across Europe.
More information:
Zanotta
[email protected]
www.zanotta.com
