A Peaceful Retreat – Valli Sofa Collection by Schiavello

under the towering presence of a steep cliff or within a cathedral cave has always been an experience of peace and tranquil solemnity. Appreciating this natural sense of repose and seeking to cultivate a quiet space to stop and pause within the busy workday, Schiavello has launched the new Valli collection of office sofas.

Schiavello has been designing living and working environments for more than 55 years. Utilising this experience in crafting highly functional workspaces combined with a polished design aesthetic and quality craftsmanship, the company designs and manufactures industry-leading office furniture from its multi-disciplinary Melbourne-based design studio. Ultimately, the aim is to cultivate a particular experience for the end user, one that goes further than just meeting their needs to deliver something unexpected.

Designed with complete flexibility, each piece in the range, when used individually or simultaneously, creates inviting spaces to foster productivity, connection and wellbeing.

The new collection comprises three distinct pieces: Float, Drift and Cove. Each is designed for both aesthetics and function. Available in one, two or three seats, the products feature integrated charging ports and a selection of premium durable leather and fabric upholstery. Every detail of every surface is considered, allowing for a malleable design where any piece can be pitched at any angle, or integrated with other pieces into forms and patterns to suit diverse environments. More than just being functional, the designs have intention, expressing graceful contours that sweep over the sheer sides, creating a sense of flow when multiple pieces are paired together. “Valli has been designed for the contemporary corporate world: multipurpose and tech-enabled in function, while tailored and structured in form. Balancing comfort and sophistication in equal measure,” explains Schiavello designer Alistair Obliubek.

Each range in the collection has a distinct personality. Valli Float is an effortless modern lounge for a quick place to wait or, when paired with another, creating a casual arrangement to connect and engage. Valli Drift has a more substantial presence; an open-backed sofa in a classic style, with floor-to-back upholstery and custom caster wheels allowing a swift transformation to suit any use. Valli Cove is the star of the collection; sweeping high sides and back create comfort and privacy, but with an openness and ease that beckons. The tall privacy walls do not tower, instead cultivating a feeling of gentle embrace. Cove is designed as a peaceful retreat, the enclosed design creating visual and auditory privacy, a sitting space that is ergonomic and conducive to clear thinking and, as well as being relaxing, provides an escape from the sensory overload of the busy office. Schiavello Managing Director Peter Schiavello explains this intent: “Today, employees need a considered variety of focused and collaborative environments to reflect, recharge and connect. A dedicated space, close in proximity but distant in energy.”

Schiavello has been designing living and working environments for more than 55 years.

Good design often finds inspiration in nature, and Schiavello has channelled the solemnity of a gentle flowing stream under a towering sheer wall, imbuing this privacy and quiet comfort into a collection of purpose-driven workplace sofas. Designed with complete flexibility, each piece in the range, when used individually or simultaneously, creates inviting spaces to foster productivity, connection and wellbeing.