The Endless Possibilities of the Mah Jong Sofa
For over five decades, the Mah Jong sofa has stood as a symbol of freedom of design and personal expression. Designed in 1971 by Hans Hopfer for Roche Bobois, this piece of furniture has shattered the confines of traditional interior design. Hopfer, a visionary German designer, shaped the era with his understanding of evolving lifestyles, creating a sofa that adapts to any space and style with its modular construction.
The Mah Jong is more than just a seating piece; it's a way of life that invites individuals to shape their surroundings. With three basic elements that can be combined or stacked in endless configurations, it encourages every owner to become a designer. The result is a living landscape that speaks of pure freedom, creativity, and joie de vivre – whether as a chair, a bed, or a versatile living area.
Jean Paul Gaultier, one of the many renowned designers who have collaborated with Roche Bobois, has left his artistic mark on the Mah Jong. His collection embodies a fusion of fashion and furniture design, a harmonious connection that transforms the sofa into a captivating artwork. With a blend of humor and artistic talent, Gaultier reinvented the Mah Jong by infusing his iconic designs – such as the famous sailor stripes – and a poetic refinement that turned the sofa into a true design icon.
But the collaborations don't end there. Over the years, the Mah Jong has inspired artists and fashion designers from around the world. Each new edition is a celebration of color, form, and fantasy. Designers play with textures, patterns, and color schemes to present their own interpretation of the classic Mah Jong. This has led to an impressive diversity, proving that this piece of furniture is not only a part of design history but also a living, breathing object that continues to evolve.
The Mah Jong sofa also symbolizes a democratic approach to design. It represents the belief that beauty and comfort, elegance and functionality should not be exclusive but accessible to all. With the Mah Jong, Roche Bobois has created a universe where individual creativity can flourish.
The piece of furniture bears witness to the cultural changes and societal developments of the past five decades. It reflects our ever-changing world and demonstrates how design can enrich the human experience and improve our way of life. In the creations of Jean Paul Gaultier and other designers, the spirit of Hans Hopfer lives on – a legacy that is continued with each individually designed Mah Jong.
