These materials are not only natural but also distinctive, offering a nuanced dialogue between craftsmanship and contemporary design language. This evolution extends to the entire Trench family—chair, armchair, and lounge armchair—establishing a unified aesthetic that resonates across multiple contexts. The result is a collection that transitions with ease from residential to hospitality and contract environments.

From Cork & Paper to Material‑Driven Design

Driven by a continuous pursuit of aesthetic refinement, material innovation, and advanced production technologies, Piaval reaffirms its commitment to a design culture rooted in ecological responsibility.

In this context, the collaboration with Tuzzi Materials—under the guidance of Carlo and Filippo—and architect Laura Silvestrini becomes a platform for experimentation, where research evolves into tangible solutions.

The first material features a three‑ply Havana paper cord, FSC‑certified and entirely formaldehyde‑free, with a 3 mm diameter. Beyond its strong environmental credentials, it reveals unexpected technical performance: it naturally drains absorbed water and maintains excellent tensile strength, making it suitable for protected outdoor use. Aesthetically, it reinterprets traditional weaving through an hourglass pattern applied to a curved seat shell, calibrated to deliver responsive, elastic comfort in harmony with the cord’s intrinsic properties.

The second solution introduces a bold, contemporary expression. A 55 mm round cord—formed by an outer layer in agglomerated cork or leather and a core of regenerated cotton and textile fibers—creates the foundation for a generously proportioned weave. Developed through a refined warp‑and‑weft logic, it amplifies visual cadence while ensuring ergonomic responsiveness.

A water‑repellent treatment further broadens its suitability for protected outdoor settings.

Both materials, engineered and refined by Tuzzi Materials, achieve their full expression within Piaval’s craftsmanship—where innovation and tradition engage in a dialogue that resonates with the evolving sensibilities of contemporary design.