Fabric and Frame – JRF Launches Rio S’48

Words by Olivia Hides
Imagery Courtesy of James Richardson Furniture
Brand S’48

James Richardson Furniture has recently unveiled an exclusive new outdoor furniture collection – Rio by S’48. Balancing functionality with memorable design, Rio is comprised of versatile pieces that combine European and Australian design sensibilities.

Compact and refined, the Rio collection from S’48 ignites a dynamic discourse and explores the relationship between fabric and frame. Imbued with a timeless perseverance, each piece is crafted in a considered palette and celebrates detailed woven materiality. “Rio is the ultimate addition to your outdoor space,” says Georgia Danos, Creative and Brand Director at James Richardson Furniture. “With our penchant for outdoor living, the Rio collection is ideal for the Australian way of life.”

Imbued with a timeless perseverance, each piece is crafted in a considered palette and celebrates detailed woven materiality.

Encompassing bar stools, chairs, sofas, tables and lounge chairs, the durable collection speaks to the brand’s European origin and legacy, characterised by a customisable flexibility to suit a range of outdoor settings. The contemporary selection was originally intended for the accommodation sector, meaning each piece is infused with an expert high-commercial quality.

A solid and yet still lightweight aluminium tube frame is complemented with a romantic intertwined series of ropes for the seating base, as well as a geometrically inspired backrest. The powder-coasted aluminium frame – currently available in the neutral options of light grey, dark charcoal, black or light-washed olive – can be coupled with either a complementary or contrasting tonality.

Encompassing bar stools, chairs, sofas, tables and lounge chairs, the durable collection speaks to the brand’s European origin and legacy, characterised by a customisable flexibility to suit a range of outdoor settings.

The collection includes six chair options, as well as a barstool, bench, armchair, dining chair and two sofas. Within the curated selection of outdoor pieces, a customisable range of colours are available, championing an adaptable aesthetic. The limited number of pieces within the collection grant each piece the holistic ability to understand its purpose and pioneer in functionality and form.

“The pieces are designed and crafted to last, whilst still having a refined style – seldom seen in outdoor furniture,” Georgia explains. “Strong yet lightweight, these pieces will stand the test of time, both in durability and in design sensibility.”