When devising the Trave chair for Magis, Italian design studio BrogliatoTraverso wanted to push the boundaries of design. While at first glance the shapely chair seems simple, it’s a “technical gem” that seamlessly weaves together industry and craftsmanship. 

Opting for a steam-bent solid wood design, studio founders Alberto Brogliato and Federico Traverso played with many iterations for their chair before landing on a process of subtraction that led to Trave. 

Rather than multiple components, Trave highlights a less is more approach with only a simple bar of solid ash providing the basis for the sculptural seat. An innovative structural solution, the sturdy bar became the central axis for the other pared-back components – four simple legs and two padded cushions. The back and seat cushions are generously proportioned for comfort while the slender legs offer support with a minimal frame. 

Highlighting the expertise and solid-wood bending technology of the Magis team, Trave’s central curved beam is prepared over the course of seven days: After soaking in steam, the wood is immediately bent and then placed in a drying kiln, after which it is refined and assembled with the legs and cushions. 

The wood portions of Trave are available in a natural finish and two stained versions (light oak and rich black) and the back and seat cushions can be upholstered in a variety of fabric options. Effortlessly beautiful and well-made, Trave is suitable for use in both residential and contract settings.