Desafinado

Bench for SAL+Co

The Desafinado explores balance through simplicity. Informed by Scandinavian principles, it features clean lines and precise geometry. Its low profile encourages an easy, unforced posture, while the separation between the seat and back introduces subtle visual contrast. A deliberate overhang offsets the opposing extensions of seat and back, allowing the construction itself to express its purpose.

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Download Press Kit № 180459 Bench for SAL+Co by Cassiano Saldanha to access high-res images, essential texts, translations, and exclusive interviews—all in one.

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Desafinado by Cassiano Saldanha

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Bench by Cassiano Saldanha

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Cassiano Saldanha Desafinado

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Cassiano Saldanha Bench

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Cassiano Saldanha Designer Portrait Photo

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SAL CoBrand Logo

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Unique Properties

The Desafinado bench is conceived as a study in balance and restraint. Rooted in Scandinavian design, it relies on simple, straight lines and clear geometry. The low-lying proportions invite a relaxed posture, while the split between back and seat creates a visual tension. An intentional overhang balances the extended seat and back to opposite directions, turning structure into function.

Tags

Bench, Brazilian, wood, Balance, furniture

Production Technology

The bench is built almost entirely from a single material: European oak. Finished with a black stain, the wood emphasizes grain, mass, and shadow. This restrained material choice reinforces the clarity of the design, allowing form, proportion, and structure to define the piece without distraction. The bench is complemented with a thin, hand-stitched seat cushion upholstered in authentic Brazilian saddle leather forced from local small business.

Project Duration

Conceived in Miami in 2022, the project evolved through an intensive four-month prototyping phase and reached its final form in August of that year. The bench exists as a true one-of-one piece; all remaining prototypes were deliberately destroyed upon completion, reinforcing its singularity.

Operation Flow

Beyond simple seating, the Desafinado Bench invites multiple uses: a surface to recline or stretch, a platform for books and objects, or an architectural element that works as a space divider or low table. It shifts easily between function and presence, adapting to the way the body and the room engage with it.

Inspiration

The piece draws from Scandinavian clarity, but it is grounded in Brazilian brutalist modernism. Its forms are direct and architectural rather than delicate or refined. The bench avoids excessive polish, embracing weight, presence, and material honesty. This subtle roughness distinguishes it from Japanese minimalism and reinforces its brutalist character.

Image Credits

Cassiano Saldanha

Project Overview

Desafinado Bench has been a Bronze winner in the Furniture Design award category in the year 2025 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Bronze A' Design Award is given to outstanding designs that showcase a high degree of creativity and practicality. It recognizes the dedication and skill of designers who produce work that stands out for its thoughtful development and innovative use of materials and technology. These designs are acknowledged for their professional execution and potential to influence industry standards positively. Winning this award highlights the designer's ability to blend form and function effectively, offering solutions that enhance people's lives and wellbeing.

Bronze Recognition

Cassiano Saldanha was recognized with the coveted Bronze A' Design Award in 2026, a testament to excellence of their work Desafinado Bench.

Cassiano Saldanha Press Releases

Our press releases on Cassiano Saldanha and their work are made freely available for press members looking to add depth to their content. Immediate access is granted to 1 press releases for all journalists.

Cassiano Saldanha Newsroom

Discover outstanding design and award-winning initiatives in the Cassiano Saldanha Newsroom.