DS-11 Modular Sofa - De Sede Designteam - De Sede Swiss

De Sede DS-11 Monumental Modular Sofa in Original Cognac Patchwork Leather, Switzerland, 1970s
An exceptional and remarkably complete DS-11 configuration by De Sede, preserved in its original cognac patchwork leather with more than five decades of beautiful natural patina.

The DS-11 is one of De Sede’s most distinctive modular designs from the 1970s. Its generous low-slung proportions are combined with an extraordinary patchwork construction, in which individual pieces of leather are folded and stitched together to create the sculptural upholstery that defines the model.

What makes this particular set truly exceptional is its scale and composition. The configuration includes three corner elements: one connecting corner and two dedicated end corner elements. Both end elements are completely finished in leather on their exposed outer sides, allowing the monumental composition to be beautifully finished at both extremities. This is an important advantage over many DS-11 sets in which connecting corner modules are used as end pieces, leaving the configuration less resolved.

The set is accompanied by two matching low table elements and can be arranged in different configurations thanks to its fully modular construction. The individual modules can be combined into the impressive landscape shown in the photographs or rearranged to suit a different interior.

Perhaps the most beautiful characteristic of this particular DS-11 is its completely original leather. Different pieces, grains and textures of leather have aged individually over more than five decades, creating an extraordinary spectrum of honey, caramel, warm cognac and deeper brown tones. Rather than the uniform appearance of newly upholstered or recoloured leather, the surface has developed a rich and lively patina that gives every individual patch its own character.

Condition:
Very good original vintage condition. The original leather remains exceptionally soft and supple throughout, with no tears or dry cracking. No repairs have been carried out to the leather and no leather sections have been replaced, preserving the authentic original upholstery. Only two small individual leather patches show slightly more surface wear than the remainder of the set; both are clearly pictured and remain soft and stable. The backs and outer leather panels are also remarkably well preserved. Natural variations in colour, grain and texture are inherent to the original patchwork construction and form an essential part of the character and beauty of this set.

Technical details:

Designer: De Sede Design Team
Manufacturer: De Sede
Model: DS-11
Origin: Switzerland
Period: 1970s
Type: Modular sectional sofa / lounge landscape
Upholstery: Original patchwork leather
Colour: Cognac / caramel / honey brown
Configuration: Fully modular
Corner elements: Three – two finished end corner elements and one connecting corner element
Tables: Two matching low table elements
Leather condition: Original, unrepaired and exceptionally supple
Restoration: No repairs or replacement of the leather