River pebble in the living room: Rzav sofa from Atlas by Taktika studio


We explore the process of creating the sofa, its unique characteristics, as well as the creative journey shared with us by authors Dalia Dukanac and Stefan Đorđević.

This unique sofa, which combines functionality and artistic expression, is the result of creative engagement architectural duo from Belgradewhose unusual approaches and visions won over the experts from Atlas, the organizers of the competition “Sign your design”.

Designing furniture is for Studio Tactics was a natural step when they found out about the open design competition. Although they had no previous experience in this field, they often met on interior projects and competitions, which further enriched their understanding of design.

The primary inspiration came from nature and experiences from their annual vacation. It is in question river pebbleits physiognomy, smoothness, uniqueness and color. All these properties were thoroughly studied and shaped the future design. We can say yes to this sofa celebrates local materials and contemporary aesthetics.

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The sofa is available for sale at the Atlas furniture showroom on South Boulevard; Photo: Atlas

Materials and color

Modular sofa Rzav represents a carefully designed piece of furniture with elegantly rounded lineswhich provides outstanding ergonomic support and comfort, with possibility of customizationthey explain Dalia Dukanac and Stefan Djordjevic from Tactics.

What particularly attracts attention are its finesse, such as legs and stapleswhich bring a touch of playfulness and unexpectedness. The shape and colors of these elements were deeply considered, both during the creative process and in in cooperation with partners from Atlas.

In the choice of materials natural textures dominatewith a special emphasis on comfort and practicality. These materials are resistant to dirt and wearwhich additionally contributes to their longevity.

The tables are constructed of plywood, painted in the appropriate color, which fits perfectly into the overall design.

The color palette is diverse, and the design concept includes accentuation of legs and stitching thread in colors that contrast or complement the base tone of the fabric, giving you wide possibilities for creative combinations.

Filling the sofa is a combination of polyurethane foams different densities, while for fabrics there is a so-called “designer's choice” which is always in a recommended combination with a specific thread.

The legs of the sofa are made of solid wood and, according to the author's suggestion, the colors are always the same as the thread. The tables are constructed of plywood, painted in the appropriate color, which fits perfectly into the overall design.

Besides of proposed combinations colors and materials, users are enabled to choose options independently which suit them best.

Table from the Rzav collection; Photo: Atlas

Advanced design techniques

Studying and understanding new information was both a challenge and an opportunity to gain knowledge through researching best practices in the industry. Designing was carried out with application of precise 3D modelingwhich was further refined during the production process.

River pebbles as a source of inspiration caused tight lines of the sofawith clear contours accentuated with colored stitching. On the other hand, the comfort of the sofa is supported carefully designed curves seat cushions, backrests and armrests.

Clear contours are accentuated with colored stitching; Photo: Atlas

The competition idea for the sofa and coffee tables was realized within 3 to 4 weeks, while the development process of research and fine tuning took an additional 6 to 7 weeks.

The members of Studio Tactics emphasize that they are ergonomics and design details were extremely important for this project. The competition idea for the sofa and coffee tables was realized within 3 to 4 weeks, while the development process of research and fine tuning took an additional 6 to 7 weeks.

It is important to note that the process of testing materials and fine-tuning never stops. Colleagues and experts from Atlas have greatly contributed to the rationalization of the competition project with their experience and advice, but carefully guarding author's approach and design language.

Schematic representation of elements

For those who love the unexpected

In a conversation with more experienced colleagues from Atlas, it is expected that one of the customer groups could be from younger generations when it comes to residential space, while in the domain of public spaces they can be clients willing to experiment with unexpected or, we would say, fun environments.

From an architect's perspective, designers would certainly like to the sofa and coffee tables will inspire colleaguesand to become part of challenging, fun, avant-garde, but sophisticated interiors, whether residential or public, in the future.

On the other hand, considering that it exists quite a wide selection of colors that can be applied, we think that the sofa could still fit in less expressive interiors.

Finesses like legs and pegs bring a touch of playfulness and unexpectedness; Photo: Atlas

Where to look

The sofa is already available for sale and can be found in Atlas furniture salon on the South Boulevard in Belgrade, where you can get all the information about the choice of configuration, the choice of materials and the price.