Concurrents: An Ode to Archibald

For some, it’s cars; for others, it’s art, handbags, or jewelry. For me, no material belonging has evoked such a sense of reverence, admiration, and desire as the Poltrona Frau Archibald Chair.

Designed by the renowned Jean-Marie Massaud, this chair is more than just a piece of furniture; it is a testament to the sublime marriage of form and function, a symphony of elegance and comfort that has captivated design enthusiasts, connoisseurs, and this writer alike.

My love story with Archibald began in 2019 at my first-ever NeoCon. Showrooms in general can be intimidating to a newbie, but I was scheduled for a tour of Haworth’s space, and my guide was the absolute kindest person I had met at the show. We toured their social spaces vignettes, but time stood still – as did I – when we came upon Archibald. My guide described the chair as the “fat lady in stilettos,” and I fell head over heels.

Its design is striking and understated, a masterful blend of minimalist lines and delicious curves. The chair’s enveloping seat invites you to lose yourself in its embrace. Its unique blend of understated elegance and whimsy commands attention without demanding it.

Its fine leather upholstery, padded by hand and made with Poltrona Frau’s famous Pelle Frau leather, is so sumptuous that I dare you to stop touching it. Every stitch, every fold, is a testament to Massaud’s commitment to quality and detail. Like the folds on the inside of the backrest and the understated armrest that resembles a shirt collar that has been left slightly open with a casualness that is both deliberate and undeniably elegant. Or the contrast stitching, which discreetly underlines the curved line of the back and profiles.

Archibald is more than just a comfortable seat; it’s a story. The chair’s design is a modern take on the classic English tub chair and its silhouette, at once bold and elegant, reflects Massaud’s vision of creating furniture with a nod to tradition but with a delightfully forward-thinking twist.

Poltrona Frau is known for sourcing only the finest leathers, each piece selected for its quality and character. The leather is then treated with care and precision, resulting in a finish that is both beautiful and durable. The brand, founded in 1912, has always been dedicated to creating furniture that combines the best of traditional craftsmanship with innovative design. In my humble opinion, Archibald is the perfect example of those values in action.

So while Archibald would go beautifully in any space, I envision two, in saddle brown Pelle Frau leather, around the antique game table in my living room. Where with all of its elegance and sophistication, Archibald still invites you to sit, relax, and enjoy.

Editor’s note: Jen Levisen is a writer passionate about connecting and storytelling and using both to educate and highlight impact. She serves as the Director of Communications for mindful MATERIALS and calls southern Minnesota home, where she can most often be found chauffeuring her two boys around town. Connect with Jen via LinkedIn.