Side elements of a seat allowing arms to rest, distinct from armrests by their more passive function. Distinguished from armrests by their role primarily as lateral support rather than active forearm support.

Exceptional natural fiber from alpaca shearing, renowned for its softness, lightness and thermoregulating properties. Considered one of the world’s most luxurious fibers, finer than sheep’s wool and naturally hypoallergenic.

Protest movement born in the 1960s that rejects modernist “good design” principles in favor of provocative and functionally ambiguous creations. Embodied notably by Italian Radical Design, this movement privileges emotional expression and social criticism over functional efficiency.

International artistic movement (1925-1940) characterized by stylized geometric forms, luxurious materials and a glamorous modern aesthetic. Born in France, Art Deco influences architecture, decoration and industrial design, symbolizing luxury and modernity of the interwar period.

Construction method consisting of joining different elements to form a coherent whole, without alteration of individual components. Preferred technique of modern design for its flexibility, allowing disassembly and reassembly, emblematic of the industrial approach.

German school of art and architecture (1919-1933) that revolutionizes design approach by uniting art, craft and industry. Founded by Walter Gropius, Bauhaus lays the foundations of modern design: functionalism, simplicity, mass production and accessibility.

Wide and deep armchair, fully upholstered, characterized by its solid armrests and enveloping backrest, born in the 18th century. Symbol of French aristocratic comfort, the bergère still inspires numerous contemporary creations today.

Long seat without backrest or armrests, generally upholstered, able to accommodate several people. Versatile furniture par excellence, the banquette adapts to contemporary spaces by offering additional seating and storage.

Russian artistic avant-garde (1915-1930) advocating utilitarian art serving society, characterized by geometry and assembly of industrial materials. Revolutionary movement that profoundly influences modern architecture and design through its social vision of creation.

Capitonné leather sofa, with armrests same height as backrest, emblematic of traditional English style. Timeless icon of British furniture, Chesterfield embodies masculine elegance and crosses fashions without aging.

Technique of braiding natural fibers (rattan, cane) to create flexible surfaces used in furniture. Ancestral know-how brought back to current taste, caning brings lightness and naturalness to contemporary furniture.

Dutch artistic movement (1917-1931) advocating pure geometric abstraction through straight lines, right angles and primary colors. Major influence of modern design, De Stijl still inspires contemporary architecture and graphic design today.

User-centered creative problem-solving method, combining empathy, definition, ideation, prototyping and testing. Revolutionary approach that transforms contemporary creation by placing human experience at the heart of the design process.

Architectural and artistic movement (late 1980s) characterized by fragmentation, non-rectilinear forms and absence of visual hierarchy. Rejection of modernist simplicity and expression of complexity and chaos of contemporary society through aesthetics of disjunction.

Artistic and decorative approach consisting of combining elements from different historical styles or periods to create a new and personal aesthetic. It promotes creative freedom by moving away from dogmatic rules, allowing for unique interior compositions.

Science of adapting a tool, object or environment to the user. Central to modern design, ergonomics aims to optimize human comfort, safety and efficiency. It is concerned with the relationship between an object and its user.

Technique of decorative painting that imitates the appearance of marble. Used since antiquity, faux marbling brings a touch of luxury and refinement to interiors at a lower cost, and requires great artistic mastery.

Rural, traditional and often anonymous art, created by self-taught artisans for utilitarian, decorative or ritual purposes. Rooted in local culture, it celebrates craftsmanship and the beauty of handmade objects, inspiring many contemporary creators.

Architectural and decorative movement of the 19th century that reinterprets medieval Gothic forms. It is characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, stained glass and ornamentation, bringing a dramatic and romantic aesthetic to modern spaces.

Style that favors luxury, sophistication and theatricality. It is characterized by shiny materials (mirrors, chrome), rich textures (velvet, satin) and a refined color palette, creating a chic and elegant atmosphere inspired by Hollywood’s golden age.

Architectural movement (1970s) that showcases industrial and technological elements (pipes, structures, cables), often exposed, to create a futuristic aesthetic. This style celebrates engineering and functionality, turning technical components into decorative elements.

Decorative style born in the 1930s, inspired by the glamour of classic Hollywood films. It mixes Art Deco, Oriental and Neoclassical elements with a luxurious touch (lacquer, mirrors, plush fabrics), creating a sophisticated and flamboyant aesthetic.

Style that reuses elements from abandoned factories or warehouses. It favors raw materials (brick, concrete, metal), exposed structures, and large volumes, creating a raw, authentic aesthetic that celebrates urban heritage.

Design movement that emerged in Italy after WWII. It is characterized by clean lines, organic forms, and the use of innovative materials. It combines art, architecture, and technology, influencing designers worldwide.

Hybrid decorative style that combines Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian functionality. It favors natural materials, clean lines, and a neutral color palette, creating a serene, warm, and Zen aesthetic.

German version of Art Nouveau. It is characterized by sinuous lines, floral motifs, and a focus on craftsmanship. It sought to create a new aesthetic for the industrial age, influencing architecture, design, and graphic arts.

Artistic and decorative style that is often considered “bad taste,” characterized by excess, sentimentality, and imitation. Kitsch can be a form of parody or rebellion against aesthetic standards, embracing the absurd and the extravagant.

Art form that incorporates real or perceived motion as a central element. Kinetic art objects move, creating a unique visual and sensory experience. It has influenced design by introducing dynamism and interactivity into objects and spaces.

Decorative finish consisting of applying a hard, shiny resin (lacquer) to a surface, creating a smooth and durable protective layer. Lacquer brings a luxurious and modern touch, highlighting colors and forms.

Translucent synthetic resin (acrylic) that imitates glass. Popular in the 1950s and 1960s, Lucite is used for its lightness, transparency, and modern appearance, bringing a touch of fantasy to furniture and accessories.

Idea that transcends simple material possession to encompass quality, craftsmanship, and exclusivity. In design, luxury is expressed through the use of noble materials, exceptional know-how, and timeless aesthetics.

Italian design group (1981-1988) that reacted against modernist functionalism with a playful, colorful, and anti-conformist aesthetic. Memphis is characterized by bold geometric shapes, bright colors, and the use of laminated plastics.

American design movement (1945-1965). It is characterized by clean lines, organic forms, and a mix of traditional and non-traditional materials. It emphasizes functionality and a connection with nature.

Movement of the 18th and 19th centuries that drew inspiration from Greco-Roman antiquity. It is characterized by simplicity, symmetry, and monumentality. Neoclassicism has influenced design through its preference for pure forms and elegant proportions.

Design trend that uses forms and proportions associated with childhood (round shapes, soft colors) to create comforting and empathetic objects. This approach evokes a feeling of nostalgia and innocence.

Artistic movement (1960s) that uses optical illusions and geometric patterns to create the impression of movement and vibration. Op Art has influenced design through its use of dynamic and interactive visual effects.

Design approach that uses natural forms and materials, prioritizing fluidity and harmony with the environment. It is inspired by biology and nature to create ergonomic and visually pleasing objects and spaces.

The effect of time on the surface of an object, giving it a unique character and history. Patina is often sought after in design as a sign of authenticity and quality.

Decorative elements made of plaster or stucco, used to decorate ceilings, walls, and cornices. Plasterwork adds a classic and sophisticated touch to interiors, highlighting the elegance of forms.

Artistic and architectural movement (1970s-1990s) that reacted against the simplicity of modernism by embracing eclecticism, ornamentation, and humor. Post-modernism mixes styles and references, creating a rich and often provocative aesthetic.

A trend that focuses on discreet luxury, avoiding flashy logos and conspicuous consumption. It is characterized by the use of high-quality materials, impeccable craftsmanship, and timeless design.

A flexible and durable natural material from a climbing palm tree. Rattan is used to make furniture and accessories with a light, exotic, and natural aesthetic, popular since the 19th century.

18th-century decorative style characterized by light, graceful, and playful forms. It favors asymmetry, delicate ornamentation (shells, floral motifs), and pastel colors, creating an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere.

Design movement that emerged in the 1950s. It is characterized by simplicity, functionality, and a connection with nature. It favors natural materials (wood, wool), clean lines, and neutral colors, creating a warm and welcoming aesthetic.

Furniture design style created by the Shaker religious community in the 18th century. It is characterized by a radical simplicity, functionality, and the absence of ornamentation. Shaker furniture is a symbol of minimalism and craftsmanship.

Composite material made of chips of marble, quartz, granite, or glass, poured with a binder and polished to a smooth surface. Originally from Italy, terrazzo adds a playful and colorful touch to modern interiors.

Artistic style that focuses on the subtle gradation of a single color or a limited palette to create a harmonious atmosphere. In design, tonalism is used to create serene and elegant spaces through the use of monochromatic tones.

The art of covering a seat with fabric, leather, or other materials. It involves the use of padding, springs, and stuffing to create a comfortable and aesthetic finish. Upholstery is a key element in furniture design and decor.

Decorative style that draws inspiration from the luxury and opulence of Venice. It is characterized by the use of rich materials (velvet, silk, marble), Murano glass, and ornate forms, creating a dramatic and elegant atmosphere.

A term used to describe objects or styles that are at least 20 years old and reflect a past era. Vintage design is appreciated for its authenticity, quality, and unique character, bringing a touch of history to contemporary spaces.

A weaving technique using natural materials like willow, reed, or bamboo. Wicker furniture is known for its lightness, durability, and natural aesthetic, ideal for both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Austrian design collective (1903-1932) that sought to elevate everyday objects to the status of art through quality craftsmanship and a simple, geometric aesthetic. It influenced Art Deco and modern design.

The set of values, behaviors, and aesthetics of young people. Design is often inspired by youth culture to create products and trends that reflect modernity, rebellion, and social change.

A traditional mosaic technique from Morocco. It involves arranging small, hand-cut, glazed ceramic tiles in a geometric pattern. Zellige adds a rich, artisanal, and colorful touch to interiors.

A type of exaggerated suit with high-waisted, wide-legged trousers and a long jacket. Popular in the 1940s, the zoot suit is a symbol of rebellious style.