Rare Sofa in Fabric and Leather by Maija-Lissa Komulainen, 1950s

This very rare sofa, also serving as a daybed, was designed by Maija-Lissa Komulainen and produced by Oy Uusi Kotii in Finland during the 1950s. It represents a thoughtful confluence of form, material, and functional clarity—principles that define mid-century Scandinavian design. Komulainen’s work, though less frequently encountered than that of her male contemporaries, reveals a sensitivity to proportion and a nuanced understanding of domestic comfort, making this piece a distinctive and refined example of her output.

The sofa is built around a solid beech frame, which has matured with a warm, even patina. The beech construction offers structural integrity while maintaining the visual softness associated with Scandinavian wood furniture. The clean lines and softened edges reflect an organic minimalism that speaks to both aesthetic restraint and material expressiveness.

The original upholstery is preserved in a soft beige wool fabric, featuring a finely woven texture that enhances the tactile appeal of the surface. The seat and back are subtly tufted with leather-covered buttons, creating a gentle contrast in both color and texture. This restrained decorative element contributes to the piece’s sense of quiet sophistication without detracting from its functional role. The cushioning is designed to provide firm, even support, making it equally suitable for sitting or reclining.

The tapered legs, also in beech, elevate the frame and contribute to the light, airy impression characteristic of Scandinavian modernist furniture. Their splayed stance provides visual balance and structural stability. The legs exhibit minor wear consistent with age, underscoring the piece’s authenticity and gently aged charm.

With dimensions of 180 cm in width, 72 cm in depth, and 82 cm in height, and a seat height of 40 cm (approximately 70.9 x 28.3 x 32.3 inches; seat height 15.7 inches), the sofa is scaled for both compact and open interiors. Its versatility makes it well-suited as a central seating element in a living room, a daybed in a guest space, or a functional accent in a design-forward setting.

This sofa illustrates Maija-Lissa Komulainen’s commitment to utility and elegance, affirming her place within the broader narrative of 20th-century Finnish design. It is a rare and well-preserved example of Scandinavian mid-century modernism, marked by careful craftsmanship, understated detail, and enduring material quality.

Additional information:
Material: Beech, Fabric, Leather
Color: Beige
Style: Mid Century, Scandinavian Modern
Producer: Oy Uusi Kotii
Period: 1950s
Country: Finland
Dimensions: W: 180 / D: 72 / H: 82 / Seat H: 40
Item Number: 154862