Six-Piece Brown "Patate" Modular Sofa for Airborne, France 1970s

Airborne was founded in France by Charles Bernard in 1951 and became known for a wide range of modern seating designs. By the 1970s, the company was producing furniture that explored modularity and new approaches to upholstered seating, allowing individual elements to be combined into larger arrangements. The “Patate” was designed as an ensemble of individual chair, corner and pouf units, with different configurations that could be created from them. This six-piece example captures that versatility.

There is a great balance in the execution of this sofa, achieved through the clever modular design and the continuous curves of its individual elements. Each module has a deep seat and a broad backrest that opens outward toward the upper edge, giving the seating an inviting, enveloping shape. Stitched lines radiate across the backrests and converge toward the seats, creating folds in the upholstery and emphasising the rounded construction. The thick seat cushions have a relaxed feel, with gathered fabric around their edges giving them a soft and rich appearance. The entire sofa is upholstered in soft brown fabric, in which the texture brings out different shades as light moves across the folds and curved surfaces. The six elements include straight seating modules and a rounded corner section, allowing the sofa to form the large curved arrangement shown or to be reorganised according to the space it occupies. This adaptability was fundamental to the original “Patate” system, and it maintains its functionality today.

The “Patate” represents the relaxed and increasingly informal approach to seating that made modular sofas such a distinctive part of 1970s interiors. Its six separate elements allow the composition to change with the space, while the deep seats make it particularly suited to lounging and conversation. As a piece of Airborne history, the “Patate” remains a distinctive example of French furniture from the 1970s.

Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item has some marks, scratches, cracks, and discolouration. The item comes with its original upholstery or has been reupholstered by a previous owner. We recommend reupholstery for this item, each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.

Dimensions:
149.60 in W x 110.23 in D x 27.55 in H; Seat height 15.74 in
380 cm W x 280 cm D x 70 cm H; Seat height 40 cm

Individual unit:
38.18 in W x 39.37 in D x 28.74 in H; Seat height 15.74 in; Seat depth 23.62 in
97 cm W x 100 cm D x 73 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Seat depth 60 cm

Shipping:
This sofa will be packaged and shipped with the greatest care and attention to make sure you will receive it in gallery condition. Complimentary shipping within the Netherlands.

IMPORTANT!
VAT normally applies and will be added to items when purchased by a European buyer or transported to a location within the EU.