First Edition Camaleonda Lounge Chair in Velvet by Mario Bellini for C&B Italia, 1973

Mario Bellini B&B Italia 'Camaleonda' Lounge chair in original red velvet 1973 The Camaleonda sofa, designed by renowned Italian architect and designer Mario Bellini in 1970 for B&B Italia (then C&B Italia), is an icon of radical 1970s design. Known for its modularity and versatility, it was nicknamed "Camaleonda"—a neologism merging "chameleon" (for its ability to adapt to its surroundings) and "wave" (for its fluid, undulating forms). This four-module model, as shown in the image, represents a compact yet expandable linear configuration, ideal for contemporary or vintage spaces. It is composed of four basic elements (90x90 cm seating modules), connected by an innovative system of steel tie rods, rings, and metal hooks, allowing them to be detached and rearranged freely. This creates endless configurations—from a linear sofa to an L-shaped, island-shaped, or even a "chessboard" sofa with additional elements like ottomans or coffee tables (the "Gli Scacchi" series, modules available upon request). Introduced to the public in 1970 and exhibited at the MoMA in New York in the 1972 exhibition "Italy: The New Domestic Landscape," the Camaleonda defined an era of fluid, non-rigid furnishings, becoming a symbol of domestic freedom. Produced until 1979, it was withdrawn from the market and then faithfully relaunched by B&B Italia in 2020 with eco-friendly materials (such as recycled polyester covers made from PET), but this piece appears to be a 1970s original, enhanced by its rarity on the secondary market. In short, this 4-module Camaleonda is a sculptural and functional piece: not just a sofa, but an architectural element that invites play and adaptation, wrapped in an orange velvet that radiates energy and the history of Italian design. The sofa shows signs of wear consistent with its age and use and, the fabric has been washed and sanitized perfectly and is ready to be used We offer custom restoration and special reupholstering on request. Contact us to have a shipping quote