Brazil may not be as widely recognised as other parts of the world as producers of minimalist design, yet we are beginning to see a wave of pared down, reductive designs—in architecture, furniture, and homewares—that encompass simplicity and essentialism. A perfect example of this is Jader Almeida’s stylish, sophisticated, and timeless Ella Armchair for SOLLOS.

The unexpected combination of different materials and an interesting play of proportions are the key features of a project that fully interprets SOLLOS’ spirit. Ella—launched at Fuorisalone—features an essential structure in light carbon steel that welcomes a backrest in wood and a padded seat covered in leather or fabric. The perfect ensemble of the three elements gives back a delicate and refined impression. Exuding comfort and generous in its dimensions, the seat seems to float over the thin legs that, leaning on slender feet, apparently touch the ground only in one point to elevate themselves and meet the line of the armrests.

Eye-catching like a disruptive detail that captures the attention, the wide cushioned seat guarantees a perfect aesthetic equilibrium. The soft, organic lines of the backrest in curved wood result in an elegant and gentle form that accommodates the line of the body, providing a warm embrace. With Ella, Jader Almeida gives life to a timeless proposal where the feminine archetype meets the rigorous shapes of contemporary design.

Jader Almeida was born in 1981 in the state of Santa Catarina, southern Brazil. At the age of 16 he had his first contact with the furniture industry, beginning his involvement with the entire production process.

Since 2004 he develops unique products for Brazilian and foreign industries, with his primary partner brand SOLLOS. In 2013, he joined the team of designers at the German brand ClassiCon. He also works on commercial and residential architectural projects, developed in his office in Florianópolis, Santa Catarina. He explains:

I look for rationality and simple geometry in pure forms with a timeless aesthetic. I seek to create products with durable values. Approaching the legacy of the masters, but looking ahead, thinking that the choices of today will be the reflection of tomorrow.