Innovation in materials according to Arper

Arper, Catifa 53 - Ph. Salva López

In collaboration with Papershell, a Swedish start-up that has developed a revolutionary material derived from wood waste, the company founded in 1989 by the Feltrin family unveils a brand new version of the Catifa 53 chair designed by Lievore Altherr Molina

For the design industry, the materials revolution marks a significant step forward towards environmental sustainability. These are innovative and high-tech materials that make objects more durable, without sacrificing aesthetic and formal quality.

For Arper, sustainability is an all-round project, a constantly evolving path that starts from governance to production processes, all the way to factors involved in environmental and social responsibility, with constant research into low-impact solutions. This vision translates today into a partnership focused precisely on an innovative material, and the development of Catifa Carta, an evolution of the iconic Catifa 53, designed in 2001 by the Lievore Altherr Molina studio and the first Arper product to obtain environmental certification, which now boasts a new shell made of Papershell. This is a new and revolutionary material derived from wood waste, capable of giving strength and comfort to the unique design that has always distinguished this seating.

Thanks to its innovative character, Papershell makes it possible to drastically reduce the impact of Catifa Carta by sequestering carbon dioxide. The material, at the end of its life cycle, can be reduced to biochar, a charcoal that has the ability to retain the CO2 sequestered during its previous life stages. Papershell is the result of advanced scientific research and introduces an innovative process that looks to the challenges of tomorrow.

The color palette comes in two shades and three options for the base: the shell is available in the colors coffee and graphite. The base is available in the following versions: four steel legs in black, steel sled in black and rust, black aluminum perch with and without wheels. Cushions and removable covers add color and comfort. In addition, to further reduce its impact, Catifa Carta can be completely dismantled.

“As Arper continues its journey towards sustainable design, which began in 2005, we are excited to unveil our latest innovation, the reinterpretation of our iconic Catifa 53, designed by Lievore Altherr Molina in 2001: Catifa Carta,” said Roberto Monti, CEO of Arper. “The chair, made of the revolutionary Papershell material, is a testament to our ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility. A point of arrival and a starting point for design and a significant step on our path towards a more sustainable future. For us, working with partners – such as Papershell – to cultivate innovative developments, is crucial to delivering relevant solutions in today's ever-changing landscape. By introducing pioneering materials and conscious practices, we aspire to inspire change and become an example of responsible business. This launch underscores our enduring commitment to leading by example, demonstrating that responsible business practices can truly be synonymous with cutting-edge creativity.”