Internationally-renowned French architect, designer, and inventor, Jean-Marie Massaud, has established himself as one of the world’s most innovative and multi-talented creatives. Known for subverting trends and carving new paths, Massaud’s work stretches across the full spectrum of design — from furniture to architecture, urban planning, branding, equipment and more, with iconic brand partnerships spanning his career. With an incredible ability to question and rethink the existing, Massaud places a fundamental emphasis on the environmental, economic, and emotional impact of his work, setting him apart as one of the design world’s true visionaries. Here, we explore his life and career through some of his most iconic work.
Born in Toulouse, France, Jean-Marie Massaud had an early interest in science which inspired him to initially study aerospace engineering before shifting his focus to design, graduating from École Nationale Supérieur de Création Industrielle (ENSCI) in Paris in 1990. After starting his career in Hong Kong, he opened his first office in Paris in 1996, and later co-founded Studio Massaud with architect Daniel Pouzet and designer Marc Berthier in 2000.
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Massaud’s fascination with the science of things is evident in his reductionist designs which seek to reimagine their subject through thoughtful reconsideration. Known for his innovative approach that integrates environmental sustainability, economic efficiency, and individual and collective wellbeing, Massaud’s work spans a vast and varied spectrum of subjects — from furniture and cars to interior design and architecture, often drawing inspiration from nature to create emotionally resonant projects with an organic sensibility.
The designer famously said, “When I’m working on a project, there’s always an attempt to renew the subject I’m involved in,” and despite the scale or subject, from macro environment to micro contexts, stadiums to seating, his minimalist style, characterised by essential lines and an incredible lightness, remain constant. Most evident in some of the designer’s most renowned furniture projects, from the Flow chair — whose intricate but refined detail inspires contemplation, to the Auckland armchair — its timeless, ergonomic form and considered sustainable fabrication redefining relaxation.
“Massaud’s fascination with the science of things is evident in his reductionist designs, which seek to reimagine their subject through thoughtful reconsideration.”
Massaud’s contribution to the forward momentum of the design world has seen the creative collaborate with some of the biggest names in the industry, from Alessi to Poliform, Cassina, and Poltrona Frau, developing some of the most revered and widely recognised global designs, and solidifying his incredible deft in reinvention.
Essentially, what Massaud possesses is a unique ability, in a world of sameness, to truly innovate. With an authentic interest in bettering the lives of those who engage with his work, and a true penchant for progress, Massaud has shifted the design dial entirely across the past two and a half decades, and continues to do so today.
Here, we explore some of his most iconic pieces, showcasing the incredible work of this luminary icon.
Terminal 1 Chaise Lounge for B&B Italia (2008)
Available locally from Matisse
Sculptural and sophisticated, and a masterclass in experimental design, the Terminal 1 chaise lounge, designed by Jean-Marie Massaud for B&B Italia, enlivens elegance. Its futuristic design features smooth, flowing lines and a cantilevered structure, offering both visual appeal and comfort, with its innovative form and high-quality materials making it a standout in modernist and classical settings alike.
Flow Armchair for MDF Italia (2009)
Available locally from Matisse
Jean-Marie Massaud’s Flow armchair, designed for MDF Italia in 2003, is a sleek, modern, and ultra-versatile piece that combines comfort and style. The elegant curvature of the profile is accentuated in some iterations, and offset in others. The versatile options, spanning myriad bases and finishes, means the chair slots as seamlessly into a design-led home as it does a boardroom.
Auckland Armchair for Cassina (2005)
Available locally from Matisse
In designing Auckland, Jean-Marie Massaud reinterpreted the classic lounge chair with a contemporary twist. The shell-shaped seat, inspired by Kendo armour, is available in black or white with an optional footrest, while the swivel chair’s versatile design, with metal support allowing for oscillating movement and a height-adjustable headrest, is the perfect combination of usability and timelessness.
Isidora Drinks Cabinet for Poltrona Frau (2011)
Available locally from Studio Italia
Refined and functional, with an elegant, compact design, leather exterior and well-organised interior for storing bar essentials, the Isidoro bar cabinet, designed by Massaud for Poltrona Frau in 2011, is reminiscent of an open book. This sophisticated cabinet seamlessly blends luxury and practicality, making it a sleek addition to contemporary spaces.
Wallace Armchair for Poliform (2013)
Available locally from Studio Italia
With luxurious leather upholstery and a sturdy frame, the Wallace armchair exudes timeless elegance and comfort. Conceived by Massaud in 2013, the chair’s clean lines and plush seat make it a stylish and inviting addition to modern living spaces, seamlessly blending sophistication and functionality.
Heaven Chair for Emu (2012)
Available locally from ECC
Creativity meets comfort in Jean-Marie Massaud’s Emu Heaven chair. Offsetting airy elegance with sturdy construction, this classic design remains a favourite amongst industry insiders, and for good reason. Its intricate metal mesh design offers a light and ethereal appearance while providing durability and comfort across both indoor and outdoor settings alike.
Seax Armchair for Dedon (2013)
Available locally from Dawson & Co.
The Seax armchair, designed by Massaud for Dedon in 2013, blends easy elegance with functionality. Inspired by sailing aesthetics, it features a sleek, folding frame with luxurious materials. Slotting as easily into outdoor settings as it does the indoors, this versatile piece combines comfort and style, making it an ideal addition to contemporary and sophisticated living spaces alike.
Archibald Gran Comfort Chair for Poltrona Frau (2014)
Available locally from Studio Italia
Designed by Jean-Marie Massaud for Poltrona Frau in 2014, the Archibald Gran Comfort Chair and Table blend luxury and comfort. The chair features plush, inviting cushions and a sophisticated design, while the accompanying table showcases sleek lines and high-quality materials. Together, they create a stylish, elegant addition to any space.
Neil Twist Armchair for MDF Italia (2017)
Available locally from Matisse
Designed by Jean-Marie Massaud for MDF Italia, the Neil Twist armchair deftly blends form and function. Crafted with a lightweight aluminium frame and intricately woven rope, the ergonomic chair offers both comfort and durability, its sleek, contemporary aesthetic embodying Massaud’s signature style of refined simplicity and innovative craftsmanship.
Le Club Armchair for Poliform (2018)
Available locally from Studio Italia
Here, Jean-Marie Massaud has reinterpreted the classic club chair in Le Club Chair. Featuring clean lines, plush cushioning, and luxurious upholstery, this sophisticated seat combines comfort with contemporary design — its sleek profile and refined details making it a versatile piece, suitable for both residential and commercial spaces.
Saint Germain Sofa for Poliform (2022)
Available locally from Studio Italia
Defined by its elegant lines and plush form, Massaud’s Saint Germain Sofa for Poliform reflects the revered designer’s refined design sensibilities. With generous proportions and luxurious upholstery, it offers both style and relaxation, while the modular configuration allows for versatile arrangements, making it a sophisticated addition to any living space.
