Parka Sofa by designers Draga & Aurel for Poltrona Frau

Inspired by the classic ‘90s streetwear clothing item by the same name, the Parka Sofa by designers Draga & Aurel for Poltrona Frau is a passe-partout sofa that fits any style and is extremely versatile despite having a strong personality.

Here, Poltrona Frau chats to the duo about the collaboration process and the inspiration behind their works.

PF: Throughout your careers, who has been the most influential creative figure for each of you?

Draga: Ettore Sottsass, for his audacity in breaking aesthetic conventions.

Aurel: Robert Rauschenberg, Cy Twombly, Gerhard Richter and Joseph Beuys, who have broadened my view of the artistic world.

PF: When you were children, what were your favourite toys, and do you think those early interactions with objects influenced your design sensibilities today?

Draga: Lego, they taught me how to build and think in a modular way.

Aurel: My go-kart. I sped through the streets and parks of Munich, and it was pure freedom.

PF: This is our first collaboration together. What was the most surprising or insightful thing you discovered while working with us?

Draga: I was struck by the incredible attention to detail.

Aurel: I discovered a deep passion for tradition and materials. 

PF: Today, the debate focuses on artificial intelligence, with all its opportunities and risks. How do you feel about it, and if you could see the introduction of another new technology in the world, what would it be?

Draga: I would like to see technology that integrates sustainability and design without compromise.

Aurel: I would like AI to be a consultant when I am undecided about a creative choice.

PF: What is the one object that you absolutely cannot live without?

Draga: My notebook, where all my ideas are born.

Aurel: My fountain pen, the first step of every project. 

PF: If you could own any art from a museum, which one would it be?

Draga: I would like the ‘Torso del Belvedere from the Vatican Museums for its formal perfection.

Aurel: Undoubtedly a work by Mark Rothko for its emotional depth.

PF: If you could have designed any existing piece from the Poltrona Frau catalogue, which one would it be?

Draga: I would have liked to draw the ‘Chester’, a timeless classic.

Aurel: A dining table, a central element in the home.

Contact: Poltrona Frau