Santa and Cole’s reproduction of the Coliseum armchair stays true to the original that was designed by Evarist Mora for the Eighth Salon del Hogar Moderno exhibition in Barcelona, Spain, in 1942.
Its clean, avant garde shape and lines, inspired by the Art Deco movement of the early 20th century makes it an appealing piece of furniture that is eminently suitable for areas such as reception rooms and hotel lobbies and lounges.
The 1942 exhibition in Barcelona was spearheaded by the Foment de les Arts Decoratives and highlighted various designs that were deemed radical or progressive at the time. Mora’s Coliseum armchair drew attention because of its rendition of geometry into something that was not only functional, but pleasing to the eye as well. Instead of resting on four legs, it stands on a square wooden frame, conveying an impression of strength and stolidity. It isn’t just a visual pleasure, though; it’s a fully functional piece of furniture that actually seems to invite people to use it.