Oscar Niemeyer "Alta" Lounge Set for Mobilier International, Black Leather, 1971

Design
1971

Manufacture
Contemporary

Location
Lonigo, IT

Oscar Niemeyer "Alta" lounge set for Mobilier International, black leather, France, 1971.

The "Alta" lounge chair, designed by Oscar Niemeyer in 1971 in collaboration with his daughter Anna Maria, embodies the essence of Brazilian modernist design. The chair and ottoman's structure is crafted from curved steel bands that form a ribbon-like shape, supporting the seat and backrest. The adjustable inclination of both the seat and backrest creates a dynamic, almost spring-like effect, offering both comfort and flexibility. The dark beige leather upholstery, meticulously fitted, adds an element of luxury. Delicate button-tufted details create a geometric pattern that echoes Niemeyer's architectural approach to form and function.
Niemeyer, famed for his works like the Brazilian National Congress and Brasília's Cathedral, designed this version of the Alta Armchair for the headquarters of the French Communist Party in Paris, a building he also designed in the late 1970s. This piece reflects Niemeyer's vision of combining austerity with a sense of lightness and freedom. The "Alta" is not just a chair but a sculptural statement, drawing parallels with the fluid lines and geometric precision seen in his architectural masterpieces.
This armchair has been featured in prestigious settings and collections, reflecting the continued admiration for Niemeyer's contributions to modernist design.