In a talk with Philippe Malouin

Designed by the Anglo-Canadian designer Philippe Malouin for Acerbis, it comes in both sofa and armchair versions, each defined by a continuous, flowing curve that, with a single gesture, shapes both seat and backrest.

An essential and rigorous design, yet one that conveys a strong character and an aesthetic far from conventional upholstered furniture: “the starting point actually came from a piece of ceramic […]” – Philippe Malouin explains – “Its form was essentially a truncated cylinder, and I was struck by the clarity and quiet strength of that geometry. Translating such a shape into the scale of seating felt like an intriguing way to bridge functional design with a sculptural sensibility.”

While Trench stands out for its visual lightness, the translation of that sculptural language into an industrial product demanded extreme precision and advanced technical expertise, as the designer himself explains: “the Acerbis product development team […] faced and overcame the complex challenge of designing a structure that was simultaneously lightweight and robust enough to provide true comfort. Precision was critical: every millimeter of the arc was refined to ensure proper head support and to establish an ideal sitting posture from what is, at its core, a deceptively simple curve. This balance between technical rigor and sculptural clarity was no small feat.”

The minimal and versatile design of Trench allows the collection to naturally integrate into a wide variety of contexts, both contract and residential, ensuring all-round comfort. As Malouin highlights: “[…] Its arc cradles the back, shoulders, and head in a way that supports multiple modes of use—whether reading, watching television, or engaging in conversation, even lying across is embracing and comforting. […]. It feels at once sculptural and practical, designed to support both the body and the life around it.”

With Trench, Acerbis enriches its upholstered collection by introducing a new and radical way of experiencing comfort, in perfect continuity with the brand’s historic identity. “What I admire about Acerbis” – the designer tells – “is its willingness to be radical without losing honesty or restraint. Many of their pieces push technical and formal boundaries, yet they resist unnecessary ornamentation. The Trench sofa embodies this philosophy: its geometry and method of manufacture are highly experimental, yet the overall impression is strikingly minimal and unadorned. It’s a bold statement that wears its radicalism lightly.”