Billiani Doll Chairs by Emilion Nanni

The name Billiani is synonymous with chairs, excellence in design and superior craftmanship. Having designed and manufactured chairs for more than a century, it is no surprise that this Italian furniture design business are considered experts in their field.

Billiani was established in 1911 by carpenter Luigi Billiani, and his wife Delina, from a small town in Northern Italy called Mariano. They began producing wicker and wooden chairs by hand, opening a small factory in Manzano, just across the border in Switzerland. The position of their factory allowed them to straddle both the traditions of Italian furntirure making, and experimentation in the production and design process, which set them ahead of the game as they became renowed for their chairs. The business experienced a boom during the post World War II era, as Luigi handed the reins to his four sons, then in the late 1990’s Billiani’s grandson (also Luigi), a trained architect, led the business into a new era. Drawing on their strong tradition of woodworking and craftmanship, Billani reimagined it’s design xxxs and directed the company into the exciting realm of fine, contemporary furniture of the highest quality. This move also expanded their remit into more seating, tables and accessories, and led to expansion of ideas and innovation through rewarding collaborations with other designers.

Italian architect, designer and artist, Emilion Nanni, joined forces with Billiani to create the “Doll” chair. His first commissioned design for Billiani in 2010, the Doll chair harks back to the Billiani roots in superior woodwork, whilst the design fuses practicality with a grace and softness of form. A gently curved back and seat do not compromise on comfort, and the slender, tapered legs lighten the form, creating an elegant silhouette. The lines on this chair are as graceful as a doll, but this delicate aesthetic belies a robust piece, typical of quality Italian manufacturing.

Handmade in Italy from high quality beechwood, we have the Doll available in an orange or yellow lacquer, ready to brighten up any room. Referred to as a chameleon of a chair, the Doll’s sleek yet elegant style will fit seamlessly into any environment, both commercial or residential.