Journal

Introducing | The Elogio Sofa

There are few moments in design when history and the future collide so harmoniously. The Elogio Sofa, newly reissued by GUBI - is precisely that moment. First conceived in 1974 by Tobia and Afra Scarpa, Elogio is both an act of reverence and a promise of renewed relevance. It honours the Scarpa philosophy: design that endures, design that is alive.

A Living Conversation Between Then and Now

Elogio 3 Seater Sofa

Elogio 4 Seater Sofa

Born in Venice in 1935, into a family steeped in art and architecture, Tobia Scarpa’s life was destined for design. He is one of the most influential figures in postmodern Italian architecture and design. Known for his focus on material exploration, a curiosity-driven experimental process, and the rigor and imagination he brings to every project – from bookcases to buildings.

In a career spanning more than six decades, he has created a body of work of extraordinary breadth and beauty – encompassing furniture, lighting, interiors, architecture, restoration, and glassware. He could be called a one-of-a-kind, were it not for the fact that he spent 50 years of his career working in equal partnership with his wife Afra Scarpa, with whom he shared a remarkable personal and professional bond. Together, they created a shared legacy, which Tobia Scarpa continues to build on today.

Afra and Tobia established their studio in 1960 and worked together almost until her death. Over five prolific decades, they created more than 400 designs from furniture and lighting to industrial architecture, private homes, retail interiors, and museum installations. Elogio is the result of a journey of technological and formal experimentation, which the Scarpas also developed through its predecessors, such as the Erasmo sofa, created a year earlier. While maintaining the anthropometric approach to proportion and the balance between structure and softness, Elogio adopts a lower, more grounded profile. GUBI’s edition remains true to the 1974 edition, subtly updated through refined materials, internal construction, upholstery, and proportions, ensuring the sofa meets contemporary standards of comfort and craftsmanship.