Practicality vital part of design

Press, 6 September 1989, Page 29

Practicality vital part of design

Comfort, aesthetics and price are what consumers consider when they are buying lounge furniture. To suit today’s lifestyle, furniture needs to be practical and functional, says Hildy Kovacs, who designs for Kovacs Design Furniture.

A contemporary look, deep padding, removeable covers for easy cleaning and adjustable headrests are features of many of her designs. She pays great attention to comfort and detail. Flowing lines which look deceptively simple are also characteristic.

Furniture not only has to be well-designed, it has to be properly made too, she says. Modern furniture must suit today’s different lifestyle. Many women now go out to work, so they need practical furniture. “People are more aware of ergonomics, so back support and headrests are important. “The height of the arms of a settee has to be right to allow people to lie down on the settee. If the settee can be used as a bed, that is one less item of furniture they have to buy,” says Hildy Kovacs. Kovacs Design Furniture makes lounge suites in fabrics of the customer’s choice. The range is huge. Leather’s popularity has increased dramatically. It has become a luxurious fashion item, a status symbol and is used in homes where a lot of entertaining is done, she says.

Leather is available in a wide range of colours. Pink ice with a hint of

cream, pale coral, navy, pumice, almond, earhty brown, grey and black for sophistication are the most popular colours. Many of Hildy Kovacs’ ideas come from Europe. Some come from furniture shows — results are cumulative, she says.

Two new suites are being exhibited at Furnishing ’B9. “Caprice” suits formal and casual settings. Its rolled arms give it a con-

temporary, yet classical look. It looks equally good in plain or patterned fabrics. The covers can be removed for cleaning and it has adjustable headrests.

“Status” also has adjustable headrests and a removable seat and back covers. Its deep padding gives it pillow-soft comfort and it has lumbar support. The settee is a two-and-a-half seater, the most popular size.