The Le Bambole Seating Collection Re-Edition Revives an Icon

August 30, 2022

The Le Bambole Seating Collection Re-Edition Revives an Icon

An iconic design collection from 1972, and winner of the 1979 Compasso d’Oro, is returning as an exciting new re-edition: Le Bambole. Designed by Mario Bellini, and part of B&B Italia’s catalogue for 50 years, new design choices are being used to make the pieces even more comfortable and sustainable for the current day. The collection includes four pieces: the Bambola armchair, the Bibambola two-seater sofa, and the Bamboletto double bed. The three-seater sofa has been updated with a deeper seat and a new name – Granbambola.

a rainbow of modern armchairs in front of a large wall of windows

Photo: Tommaso Sartori

vintage image of collection of white modern furniture

1972 collection

“I feel the pleasure of revisiting this family again, because it confirms to me that it is anything but aged; on the contrary, it is enjoying a thriving and promising second life, a rebirth done in a big way, done with enthusiasm, with breadth, with decoration, and with the original flourishes. We have recovered its charm, its sumptuous floridity, its softness,” designer Bellini shared of the re-edition.

1972 version

vintage image of a modern white 2-seater sofa

1972 version

vintage image of a modern white 3-seater sofa

1972 version

La Bambole’s overstuffed seating feels and looks made to be lived in. The shapes within the collection have steadily been adapted to remain relevant. Polyurethane, the brand’s trademark, still adds structure and comfortably pads each Bambola today – though it’s now recycled. Thermoplastic elastomers also add shape and definition, as well as comfort and breathability. The undercover that cloaks it all is derived from recycled PET material. All of these fresh updates give Le Bambole the ability to be completely disassembled and easily recycled.

Photo: Tommaso Sartori

Along with the re-edition come a few new upholstery options. Sila is a soft sablé fabric available in eight colors, while limited edition Manila features a floral print of large roses on a white or black background for an unusual contrast. Le Bambole can also be upholstered in high-quality Kasia leather.