Are you looking for a top-of-the-range sofa with an original, soft and timeless design? ? The famous Cameleonda Sofa may be just what you’re looking for. In leather or fabric, the Camaleonda has become THE viral sofa of this decade! Created in 1970 by Italian designer Mario Bellini for B&B Italia, this modular sofa with its evocative name (which means “chameleon” in Italian) is enjoying a spectacular comeback on social networks and in high-profile interiors.

With its sculpted upholstered modules that fit together freely like giant puzzle pieces, the Camaleonda perfectly embodies the spirit of the 70s: compositional freedom, maximum comfort and organic aesthetics. Its generous, sensual shapes, upholstered in leather or fabric in assertive seventies tones (camel, cognac, olive green), make it the absolute object of desire for design lovers.

What makes Camaleonda so addictive? Its chameleonic ability to adapt to any space and any use – from a simple corner armchair to a large modular landscape that spans the entire living room. A timeless design that rides the retro-futurist wave perfectly, proving that the best design ideas never really grow old!

Cameleonda Sofa: all you need to know about this iconic sofa

In the history of contemporary design, some creations transcend their era to become living legends. Mario Bellini’s Camaleonda is undoubtedly one of these timeless masterpieces. Designed in 1970 for B&B Italia (then C&B Italia), this revolutionary modular sofa redefined the codes of residential furniture and continues, more than fifty years after its creation, to inspire the most sophisticated interiors on the planet. Here’s a look back at the extraordinary history of a design object that has shaped the way we live in our homes.

Mario Bellini: the visionary behind the icon

An architect of a thousand talents

Mario Bellini was born on February 1, 1935 in Milan, the heart of Italian design. He graduated in architecture from the Politecnico di Milano in 1959, where his teachers included the legendary Ernesto Nathan Rogers, Piero Portaluppi and Gio Ponti. This excellent training forged his holistic vision of design, where architecture and furniture interact in perfect harmony.

As early as 1963, Bellini began a historic collaboration with Olivetti, for whom he created revolutionary objects: the P101 (1965), considered the first personal computer in history, and the Divisumma 18 calculator (1973) with its unprecedented integral rubber finish. This avant-garde approach won him instant worldwide recognition.

An exceptional track record

Bellini’s genius can be measured by his unrivalled track record: eight Compasso d’Oro awards, an all-time record in the history of Italian design, and 25 works in the permanent collection of New York’s MoMA. In 1987, the prestigious American museum dedicated a personal retrospective to him, the ultimate recognition for a designer still in full swing. In 2015, the Milan Triennale awarded him the Gold Medal for lifetime achievement.

From 1985 to 1991, Bellini directed the legendary magazine Domusan international forum for contemporary architecture and design. This period confirmed his stature as a design intellectual, capable of theorizing as much as creating.

1970: the birth of a revolution

Cultural and social context

The year 1970 marked a major societal turning point. Baby-boomers began to own their own homes, rejecting the bourgeois codes of their parents. The traditional home, with its rigid three-rooms and imposing furniture, no longer corresponded to the aspirations of a generation enamored of freedom and flexibility. The open-plan office is making its appearance, calling for new ways of furnishing.

“In the early ’70s,” explains Bellini, “domestic upholstered furniture stagnated in tired traditional stereotypes that never questioned the relationship between evolving new modes of behavior in the home and the types of furniture available on the market.”

Technical innovation in the service of freedom

Bellini’s response takes the form of Camaleonda, a name he coined by fusing “camaleonte” (chameleon) and “onda” (wave). This poetic name reveals the essence of the project: furniture capable of adapting to its environment while embracing the fluid movements of contemporary life.

The revolutionary system is based on perfectly standardized 90×90 cm modules: seats, backrests and armrests connect via an ingenious invisible system of cables, hooks and rings. This technical feat allows infinite reconfigurations without compromising structural integrity or overall aesthetics.

The revolutionary aesthetics of modern upholstery

Inimitable sculptural design

Camaleonda’s characteristic upholstery redefines traditional decorative codes. Far from the bourgeois quilting of the 19th century, Bellini has created a geometry of organic design in which each module becomes “an enormous pixel” capable of redesigning interior architecture. The generous, rounded volumes evoke the giant cushions of a playful, relaxed environment.

This sculptural approach transforms the sofa into an architectural element in its own right. “Camaleonda is conceived as an architectural element capable of transforming the landscape of the interior space it inhabits”, explains its creator. A landscape that is “neither immobile nor permanent”, reflecting the chameleonic nature of this visionary creation.

Material innovation in the 70s

In 1970, Bellini revolutionized the furniture industry with the adoption of self-extruded polyurethane foam, a novel technique derived from the automotive industry. This innovation enabled the creation of organic shapes impossible to achieve with traditional techniques, while guaranteeing exceptional seating comfort.

The modules are completed by Gil Scacchi side tables inspired by chess pieces (regina, cavallo, torre). These playful elements, made in self-extruding polyurethane with contrasting metal base, synchronize perfectly with the dimensions of the Camaleonda to create a coherent furniture ecosystem.

Triumph at MoMA: international recognition

“Italy: The New Domestic Landscape” (1972)

The legendary MoMA exhibition “Italy: The New Domestic Landscape”, organized by Emilio Ambasz in 1972, definitively established the Italian genius. Bellini presented not only the Camaleonda, but also his revolutionary Kar-a-Sutra concept car, the forerunner of contemporary minivans.

This American recognition made the Camaleonda a global icon. The exhibition demonstrates that Italian design transcends mere decoration to propose new ways of living, anticipating the societal changes of the future.

Global cultural impact

Camaleonda’s success spread far beyond the circle of insiders. It became the symbol of the Italian dolce vita, embodying a sophisticated, hedonistic art of living. The most famous personalities adopted it, from Hollywood stars to Parisian intellectuals, transforming this piece of furniture into a universal object of desire.

This popularity continues through the decades, with each generation rediscovering the timeless qualities of Bellini’s design. Instagram and social networks have recently amplified this phenomenon, with the Camaleonda becoming one of the most photographed sofas in the world.

Technical evolution: from 1970 to 2025

Original production (1970-1979)

The first version of the Camaleonda, produced by C&B Italia from 1970 to 1979, established the aesthetic and technical fundamentals that would endure. The polyurethane foam modules on a metal frame offered revolutionary freedom of configuration for the time.

Despite its commercial and critical success, production ceased in 1979, gradually transforming the Camaleonda into a collector’s item. On the vintage market, a module that sold for €400 in the 90s is now reaching new heights, testifying to its growing heritage value.

Sustainable renaissance (2020-2025)

Fifty years after its creation, B&B Italia and Mario Bellini have joined forces for a revolutionary re-edition of the Camaleonda. This rebirth is not just a nostalgic reproduction, but a contemporary reinterpretation incorporating today’s environmental issues.

Sustainable innovation guides this new version:

• Fully removable sandwich structure for easy recycling
• Wood panels form the core of seats, backrests and armrests
• Polyurethane foam with differentiated densities for a natural spring effect
• Feet in FSC beech instead of the original rubber
• Removable covers in 100% recycled polyester from PET plastic bottles

This revolutionary ecological approach transforms Camaleonda into a manifesto of responsible luxury, proving that aesthetic performance and environmental awareness can converge harmoniously.

Exceptional collaborations

Camaleonda x Stella McCartney

In 2022, Stella McCartney teams up with B&B Italia for a vegan reinterpretation of the Camaleonda. This historic collaboration replaces traditional leathers with revolutionary plant-based alternatives, paving the way for ethical luxury without aesthetic compromise.

McCartney’s creations fully preserve the Bellini DNA while integrating the codes of sustainable fashion. This unprecedented synthesis of haute couture and exceptional design demonstrates Camaleonda’s ability to constantly adapt to changes in society.

Contemporary limited editions

Every year, B&B Italia offers exclusive versions of the Camaleonda, in collaboration with contemporary artists and designers. These limited editions perpetuate Bellini’s innovative spirit while constantly renewing the icon’s aesthetic.

Collectors are snapping up these unique creations, transforming the Camaleonda into a veritable artistic investment. This dynamic confirms the exceptional status of a piece of furniture that has become a work of art in its own right.

Revolutionary modularity: contemporary living

Absolute freedom of configuration

“Of all the objects I’ve designed, Camaleonda is perhaps the best in terms of its sense of freedom,” confides Mario Bellini. This freedom manifests itself in the infinite possibilities of configuration: from the simple, intimate two-seater to the mega-family arrangement, each arrangement generates a specific ambiance.

Modules can be connected and disconnected at will, thanks to a patented system of tie rods and rings. This technical simplicity conceals a remarkable sophistication: each element maintains its structural integrity whatever its position within the whole.

Adapting to contemporary spaces

Contemporary residential architecture, with its open volumes and movable partitions, finds in Camaleonda a perfect ally. Its adaptability instantly transforms a living room into a private cinema, a reception area into a family relaxation zone.

This versatility proves particularly valuable in metropolises where space optimization becomes crucial. Thanks to its clean lines and intelligent modularity, Camaleonda maximizes use without visually cluttering the space.

The impact on contemporary design

Influence on a generation of designers

Camaleonda has directly inspired an entire generation of designers. Its modular philosophy can be found in countless contemporary creations, from Konstantin Grcic to Patricia Urquiola. This aesthetic filiation bears witness to the revolutionary scope of Bellini’s innovation.

The “pixel furniture” approach, in which each element functions independently yet fits seamlessly into the whole, is becoming a paradigm of contemporary design. This systemic vision remarkably anticipates today’s challenges of flexibility and sustainability.

Industrial furniture revolution

Beyond its aesthetic impact, the Camaleonda revolutionizes industrial furniture processes. Its modular design optimizes production, storage and logistics, prefiguring contemporary Industry 4.0 methods.

This approach is having a profound influence on the strategies of luxury manufacturers, demonstrating that technical innovation and aesthetic excellence can converge to deliver sustainable profitability.

Material variations: textiles and leather

The infinite world of textiles

The Camaleonda 2025 is available in the entire B&B Italia textile range, offering over 200 references in premium fabrics. From luxurious velvets by Dedar to technical outdoor textiles by Sunbrella, each fabric reveals a new facet of Bellini’s creation.

This chromatic and tactile richness transforms each Camaleonda into a unique piece, reflecting the personality of its owner. Italian textile expertise sublimates the timeless geometry of the original design.

The Camaleonda in leather: the Mario Bellini icon sublimated by Italian leather goods

The leather version of the Camaleonda, created in collaboration with Poltrona Frau, represents the culmination of Italian leather craftsmanship. Each module requires 18 skins selected according to drastic criteria: uniform thickness of 1.2mm, even grain, total absence of natural defects.

The Pelle Frau® tanning process, a closely guarded industrial secret since 1912, confers exceptional suppleness and resistance. The 2025 color palette enriches the classics (Testa di Moro, Sella) with exclusive creations: Ottanio (deep blue-green), Bordeaux Intenso, Grigio Londra.

B&B Italia’s Camaleonda in leather represents the culmination of fifty years of design evolution. Visionary architect and designer Mario Bellini created this modular revolution in 1970, anticipating our contemporary lifestyles. The 2025 leather version takes innovation to new heights with the integration of Pelle Frau® leathers, the absolute benchmark in Italian furniture leather goods since 1912.

This exceptional collaboration combines the modular genius of Bellini with the technical excellence of Poltrona Frau. Each Camaleonda module requires 18 skins selected according to drastic criteria: uniform thickness of 1.2mm, total absence of natural defects, even grain over the entire surface. The Pelle Frau® tanning process, kept secret for over a century, gives each skin exceptional suppleness and remarkable resistance to deformation.

The modular assembly of Camaleonda leather revolutionizes design possibilities: each element connects to the others via a system of invisible fasteners integrated into the metal structure. This technical feat allows infinite reconfigurations without altering the integrity of the leathers or compromising seating comfort. The new-generation mechanisms incorporate hydraulic dampers that accompany every movement, preserving the longevity of the assemblies over decades of intensive use.

The 2025 Camaleonda leather color palette explores uncharted territory: the classic Testa di Moro and Sella are joined by innovations such as Ottanio (deep blue-green), Bordeaux Intenso and Grigio Londra, exclusive shades developed specifically for this collection. Each color undergoes a specific finishing treatment that reveals the natural beauty of the grain while protecting against daily wear and tear.

This technical excellence justifies premium positioning: from €12,500 for a 3-seater set to €28,000 for a complete family configuration. The investment improves over time, as Pelle Frau® leathers develop a noble patina that enhances the piece’s aesthetic and market value. Complete collection available on bebitalia.com.

Camaleonda in the art of contemporary living

Icon of exceptional interiors

Camaleonda adorns the world’s most beautiful interiors, from New York penthouses to contemporary villas on the Côte d’Azur. Its presence immediately signals an assertive taste for design excellence and aesthetic innovation.

This popularity with international specifiers (interior architects, decorators, stylists) perpetuates its status as a timeless icon. Each publication in leading magazines amplifies its desirability, creating a virtuous dynamic of aesthetic attraction.

The Instagram and social networking effect

The digital age has multiplied the visual impact of the Camaleonda. Its sculptural silhouette and generous volumes make it an ideal photographic subject, generating millions of views on Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok.

This contemporary virality attracts a new generation to exceptional Italian design, proving that the Bellini aesthetic transcends generations. The Camaleonda thus becomes a bridge between Italian cultural heritage and contemporary lifestyle aspirations.

Heritage investment and collector’s value

Consistent appreciation of vintage

Original pieces (1970-1979) are enjoying a spectacular rise in value on the art and design markets. A module that sold for just a few hundred euros in the 90s now fetches between €3,000 and €8,000, depending on condition and provenance.

This dynamic is explained by the growing rarity of authentic pieces and the recognition of Bellini design as a heritage. Discerning collectors are building up complete sets, turning these acquisitions into genuine artistic investments.

New production as an investment

The 2020 reissue is in line with this heritage approach. The first deliveries are already showing significant waiting times, testifying to demand outstripping supply. This tension confirms Camaleonda’s exceptional status in the world of contemporary furniture.

B&B Italia’s expertise, combined with the direct supervision of Mario Bellini (89 in 2024), guarantees absolute fidelity to the original spirit while incorporating contemporary technical innovations.

Maintenance and upkeep: preserving excellence

Care protocols by subject

Textile versions: fully removable covers for easy care. Professional dry-cleaning recommended annually, gentle vacuuming weekly with brush attachment.

Pelle Frau® leather versions: specific protocol developed by the Italian manufacturer. Monthly cleaning with exclusive Leather Master products, twice-yearly nutrition, UV protection near light sources.

Outstanding durability

The Camaleonda’s build quality ensures remarkable longevity. The internal metal structures withstand decades of intensive use, while the modularity of the system means that worn components can be replaced from time to time, without compromising the overall appearance.

This durability transforms the acquisition into a trans-generational heritage investment, like the finest pieces of historic furniture.

The Mario Bellini legacy: beyond Camaleonda

A coherent design ecosystem

Bellini’s genius transcends the simple creation of objects to design complete aesthetic ecosystems. His creations for Cassina ( Cab chair sold over 400,000 units), B&B Italia(Le Bambole, Amanta) and Artemide ( Area lamp) constitute a coherent formal vocabulary.

This systemic approach allows enthusiasts to create interiors entirely designed by Bellini, guaranteeing perfect aesthetic harmony between the various furniture elements.

A forward-looking vision of design

At 89, Mario Bellini continues to innovate, proving that authentic design transcends fashion. His vision of furniture as “habitable architecture” inspires a generation of designers concerned with sustainability and functionality.

The Camaleonda perfectly embodies this timeless philosophy: an object that spans the decades while retaining its aesthetic and functional relevance, a masterly lesson in sustainable design.

Where can you find the mythical Camaleonda and what budget should you be prepared for?

The authentic Camaleonda by B&B Italia remains a substantial investment: expect to pay between 8,000 and 25,000 euros, depending on the configuration and finishes chosen. Basic modules start at around 3,500 euros apiece from official B&B Italia dealers, but complete compositions rise rapidly.

Good addresses for the original :

• B&B Italia showrooms (guarantee and personalized advice)
• Premium authorized dealers (Silvera, Made in Design, The Conran Shop)
• High-end specialized sites with guaranteed authentication

For tighter budgets:

• High-end second-hand market (1stDibs, Pamono): €4,000-12,000 for vintage pieces
• Inspired re-editions by brands such as West Elm or Article (€2,000-5,000)
• Inspired by” versions on Etsy or from independent manufacturers (€800-3,000)

Pro tip: keep an eye out for design auctions and showroom clearance sales – you might find a nugget at a more affordable price!

also talks about restoration by an upholsterer!

Where can you find the mythical Camaleonda and what budget should you be prepared for?

The authentic Camaleonda by B&B Italia remains a substantial investment: expect to pay between 8,000 and 25,000 euros, depending on the configuration and finishes chosen. Basic modules start at around 3,500 euros apiece from official B&B Italia dealers, but complete compositions rise rapidly.

Good addresses for the original :

• B&B Italia showrooms (guarantee and personalized advice)
• Premium authorized dealers (Silvera, Made in Design, The Conran Shop)
• High-end specialized sites with guaranteed authentication

For tighter budgets:

• High-end second-hand market (1stDibs, Pamono): €4,000-12,000 for vintage pieces
• Inspired re-editions by brands such as West Elm or Article (€2,000-5,000)
• Inspired by” versions on Etsy or from independent manufacturers (€800-3,000)

The catering option: the nugget to be transformed!

Tired vintage Camaleondas can become real bargains with a good upholsterer. Restoration budget: 2,000-5,000 euros, depending on condition and desired finish. The advantage? You get an authentic Bellini customized to your taste!

Choose an upholsterer who specializes in designer furniture and understands the specifics of the modular structure. Parisian workshops such as Maison Thuret and Ateliers de la Bergerie excel in this type of restoration. This is the perfect opportunity to choose a contemporary fabric (Kvadrat, Maharam) on an authentic seventies structure!

Pro tip: keep an eye out for design auctions and showroom clearance sales – you could unearth a nugget to restore at a really bargain price!

Conclusion: the eternity of a revolution

Fifty-five years after its creation, Camaleonda remains as relevant as ever. This exceptional longevity testifies to Mario Bellini’s prophetic vision, able to anticipate changes in contemporary living while creating a timeless aesthetic.

Far from being a simple piece of furniture, the Camaleonda embodies a philosophy of domestic space: flexible, adaptable, evolutive. Its revolutionary modularity meets contemporary aspirations for personalization and space optimization, while its sculptural aesthetic enhances everyday life.

The environmental commitment of the 2020 reissue transforms this vintage icon into a manifesto of responsible luxury, proving that aesthetic excellence and ecological awareness can converge harmoniously. This remarkable synthesis paves the way for exceptional sustainable design, where beauty rhymes with responsibility.

The Camaleonda thus transcends its status as an object to become a symbol: that of eternal Italian design, of perpetual innovation, of an art of living that spans generations without ever losing its seductiveness. In a world of constant change, it remains a reassuring constant: intelligent beauty at the service of domestic happiness.

To discover the complete Camaleonda universe and explore its many configurations, visit bebitalia.com or B&B Italia showrooms worldwide.