“The multiple meanings of the [Chinese] word bao include expressions of preciousness and playfulness, and we designed a pouf that exudes both,” said Alda Ly, Founder & Principal of Alda Ly Architecture (ALA) of the new Bao collection just released by HBF. “There is practicality in the handles, mobility with the loop back, and stackability; but also whimsy and approachability in its soft, round shape, and variety of upholstery options and finishes. We enjoyed creating something that we hope is like nothing else in the market – flexible and functional, but also fun.”
Bao is the API women-owned firm’s inaugural collection, a furniture collaboration with HBF, that pays attention to user experience for maximum comfort and usability. Designed to bridge the gap between formal and informal, Bao’s sculptural silhouette reflects the simple elegance of its design and construction – great craftsmanship and clean geometric aesthetics. The pouf collection is a smart, space-saving solution that can add flexible seating to any commercial or residential space while embodying the same experience as sitting in a lounge chair.
“The details of this collection are important. We wanted the design to be impactful both at first glance and also up close, so we explored ideas for decorative detail options that could provide visual interest at a smaller scale,” explains Tania Chau, Director of Interior Design at Alda Ly Architecture. “This manifested in several ways – as a concentric quilted seat top, as a signature seam stitch, and as a protective metal cap on the stacking model. While the pouf is great without it, these options are like jewelry or an accessory – an extra touch that the specifier can use to distinguish and customize their pieces to suit each project.”
The collection is available in six base options – small, medium, large half-round, stacking, low loop handle, and high loop handle – and two seat heights – lounge and work. The Bao collection offers a wide range of hospitality-inspired HBF Textiles, including an extensive selection of fully bleach-cleanable woven textiles, performance coated fabrics, and full-grain leathers. Each piece in the Bao collection is SCS Indoor Advantage™ Gold Certified and meets ANSI/BIFMA Level® 2 Furniture Sustainability Standard.
Alda Ly Architecture
To learn more about the Bao pouf collection, visit hbf.com.
