Vitra Suita Three-seater, Leather Black

Vitra Suita – slim sofa on aluminium legs

Antonio Citterio designed the Suita sofa family for Vitra, which gives the years 2010 and 2019. Light, slim volumes meet a technical aesthetic: the body and cushions seem to float above bridge-like legs in die-cast aluminium. Vitra sees this as a homage to mid-century American design. The body is a tubular steel frame with moulded foam and webbing suspension. On top sit cushions with firm or soft upholstery – in a classic cut, as Pointed Cushions or quilted.

Suita three-seater in black leather – floor model

This Suita is a three-seater with a black leather cover. The sofa was on display in a showroom and has never been used in a home. The narrow aluminium legs visibly lift the body off the floor, so the sofa looks light despite its length. It suits a living room just as well as an office or reception area. It is one of a kind.

Seating comfort and space

How firm the Suita feels depends on the cushion version. According to Vitra, the firm upholstery provides support and makes sitting down and getting up easier; its seat cushion is firmer at the front and softer at the back. The soft upholstery lets you sink in deeper. With a seat height of 43 cm, you sit at the usual height, while the backrest is low, with an overall height of 68 cm. The sofa takes up around 2.33 m of wall and 88 cm in depth, and the floor beneath it stays clear.

Elements and additions

The Suita family includes 2- and 3-seaters, also as open versions with only one armrest, plus chaise longues in two sizes. There is also a daybed, an ottoman, and the Club Sofa and Club Armchair. For the 2- and 3-seaters, there is a headrest and a rear shelf in aluminium with a linoleum inlay. According to Vitra, replacement covers and other spare parts can be ordered through its service department or specialist retailers.

Caring for the leather cover

Vitra advises not placing leather next to radiators or other heat sources and protecting it from prolonged sunlight. To clean it, dissolve flakes of neutral soap in distilled water and wipe with a soft, slightly damp cloth – not a microfibre one. Dab up liquids straight away; small marks can be removed with a colourless eraser. Once a year, treat the leather with a care product.

Why a Vitra Suita floor model?

A floor model has never been used in a home. Vitra tests its sofas in its own Test Center, where it simulates 15 years of use. On the Suita, all covers are removable, and replacement covers and spare parts can be reordered. The design is still part of Vitra's range. This piece has been inspected in eight stations.