The iconic Copacabana Chair, designed by Mathieu Matégot in 1955, has been reimagined by Danish design house GUBI making it applicable for both indoor and outdoor use.
The Copacabana Chair by Mathieu Matégot has been reissued by Danish design house GUBI. Photography @GUBI
Words by Roddy Clarke
Originally conceived in 1955, Mathieu Matégot’s Copacabana Chair is one of the designer’s most renowned creations thanks to its curvaceous form, sculpted from a single section of tubular steel. Showcasing the Hungarian designer’s skill of bringing a refined elegance to industrial materials, the mid-century design is internationally acclaimed with it being part of the permanent collection of the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris.
The Copacabana Chair by Mathieu Matégot is now available with a powder-coated steel frame and weather resistant fabric options. Photography @GUBI
Nearly 70 years on since its creation, Danish design house GUBI has launched a revision of the design, introducing it in a bold new colourway and adapting its ergonomics for today’s body shapes and sizes. Also adjusting the back rest and seat to maximise its comfort, the chair is now applicable for outdoor use thanks to extra drainage holes and weather-resistant upholstery options. “Having the opportunity to reissue as well-loved a design as the Copacabana chair is both a huge privilege and a tremendous responsibility,” says GUBI’s Chief Brand Officer, Marie Kristine Schmidt. “I am proud that we have been able to elevate one of the most influential pieces of Matégot’s prodigious career practically and ergonomically, while maintaining the integrity of expression that makes it so unique. It is a brilliant design that truly deserves to be enjoyed by the people of today – now it really can be.”
The new ‘International Orange’ colourway of the Copacabana Chair pays homage to Matégot’s mid-century designs. Photography @GUBI
To withstand exterior conditions, the original tubular steel frame has been upgraded to a powder-coated stainless steel which offers a rust-resistant, durable finish. Labelled International Orange, the chair’s new colourway is a bold, vivacious hue similar to shades often seen within Matégot’s designs and is available alongside the collection’s classic black finish. Exuding a playfulness that makes it perfect for alfresco spaces, the chair is a joyful pop of colour for the terrace, patio or balcony.
The curvaceous form of the Copacabana Chair brings a refined playfulness to any outdoor setting. Photography @GUBI
With a variety of fabric options available from GUBI’s extensive collection, this reimagination of the chair pays a beautiful homage to the late designer. Continuing his legacy with style and panache, it also makes a practical seating option if budgets are tight and opting for solutions which work both indoors and out helps in keeping expenditure to a minimum. Speaking of their father’s work and this reissued piece, Xavier and Patrice Matégot share their happiness in the respect it pays to his design heritage. “The upgrades made to the Copacabana are so thoughtful and sensitive,” states Xavier. “It takes the Matégot vision of seamless indoor/outdoor living to its natural conclusion while simultaneously shining a bright and brilliant spotlight on one of the most important pieces of his career.”
The Copacabana Outdoor Lounge Chair is available from £1299 and can be purchased here.
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