The Timeless Appeal of Gufram’s Iconic Pratone Chair

When it comes to iconic designer chairs, few pieces are as instantly recognizable as Gufram’s Pratone armchair. First introduced in 1971 by visionary designers Ceretti, Derossi, and Rosso, this bold and unconventional seating solution continues to captivate design enthusiasts over 50 years later. Recently, the legendary modern lounge chair received a contemporary twist, thanks to a daring collaboration with the MSCHF art collective.

MSCHF, known for pushing creative boundaries, took a radical approach by “cutting the grass” of the chair—an artistic interpretation that questions humanity’s impact on nature. This bold redesign debuted at the Industry Plants exhibition at Perrotin’s New York gallery, reaffirming Pratone’s status as a cult furniture icon. Just as Gufram once challenged traditional seating norms, MSCHF elevates the conversation, making Pratone more relevant than ever.

A Design Legacy: The Story Behind the Pratone Chair

Why has the Pratone chair remained so compelling in the world of design? Its legacy dates back to its debut in the 1972 MoMA exhibition “Italy: The New Domestic Landscape”, where it quickly became a statement furniture piece. The oversized grass-inspired seat, made of high-density polyurethane foam, defied conventional design rules, blending pop art aesthetics with avant-garde furniture trends.

The idea behind Pratone was as radical as its appearance. While most seating solutions focused on structure and formality, Pratone introduced a playful, organic concept—an oversized patch of artificial grass inviting users to sink into its soft, yielding structure. The inspiration came from the simple yet joyful act of walking barefoot on grass, an experience the designers sought to translate into an immersive seating experience. The chair’s 42-blade design offers exceptional comfort, allowing users to lounge in a way that feels both natural and surreal. Coated in Guflac, a patented washable finish, this playful yet durable piece remains a favorite among design collectors and modern art enthusiasts.

Pratone’s Evolution: Limited Editions and Modern Updates

The Pratone armchair has been reimagined multiple times, proving its enduring appeal in contemporary interiors:

• In 2021, an oversized inflatable version made a striking appearance at Milan Design Week, attracting widespread attention and reaffirming its status as a cultural icon.

• In 2022, artist Julien Lambert featured it in a performance directed by Fabio Cherstich, exploring themes of space, form, and interaction.

• A black-and-white Pratone x Juventus limited edition was released, with only 500 exclusive pieces available, blending high design with football culture.

• To meet the needs of modern small-space living, Gufram introduced a 30% smaller version in three new green shades, upholstered in luxurious wool bouclé fabric, offering a more accessible and versatile version of the original.

Beyond these iterations, Pratone has influenced numerous designers and furniture makers, inspiring creative explorations into organic seating and unconventional materials. Its presence in high-end galleries, museum collections, and exclusive design fairs underscores its lasting impact on the world of contemporary furniture.

A Design Icon That Defies Time

With its unmistakable design and enduring influence, the Pratone remains a highly sought-after piece of functional art. Its playful yet thought-provoking aesthetic challenges traditional notions of seating, making it more than just a chair—it’s an experience. Whether in its original form or in one of its many reinventions, Pratone continues to inspire and surprise, securing its place in design history as an unforgettable masterpiece.

But beyond its physical form, Pratone embodies a philosophy—one that rejects rigidity and embraces fluidity, one that invites spontaneity and playfulness. At a time when furniture often prioritizes minimalism and uniformity, Pratone stands as a reminder that design can be bold, expressive, and even humorous. It encourages interaction, sparks conversation, and above all, creates an emotional connection between object and user.

For those lucky enough to own one, Pratone is more than a statement piece—it’s a symbol of avant-garde thinking and fearless creativity. And while its price tag places it in the realm of luxury collectibles, its influence extends far beyond, shaping the way we think about furniture, design, and the very spaces we inhabit.