Bean Bags, that are made from fabric, dried beans, PVC pellets, or expanded polystyrene have been around since 1969. Designed by Piero Gatti, Cesare Paolini, and Franco Teodoro, and produced by the Italian company Zanotta, bean bags were born when the designers noticed the propensity of staff to plonk themselves on Styrofoam-filled bags during coffee breaks. Then called Sacco, beanbags have now become a piece of furniture that’s ubiquitous in informal areas such as cafes and family rooms.
A beanbag is a happy piece of furniture, one that puts you in the mood for lounging. Not only is it comfortable, it also adds a laidback and fun vibe to the room.
The materials
Bean bags are now available in a variety of materials, including leather, suede, corduroy, and fake fur. With leather often proving too expensive, leatherite has emerged as one of the most popular materials for bean bags.
Designers have also worked with denim and canvas in a bid to appeal to a younger clientele. Polyester bean bags are waterproof and are the best bet for the outdoors.
The shapes
Once available only in the teardrop shape, beanbags are now also available in shapes such as armchair, cylinder and sack. Sack — which classifies as a beanbag couch — is extremely popular as is the armchair. The pear/teardrop design offers the best back support and comfort. Beanbags are now also available in a plush pyramidal shape that invites you to linger.
Where can you use it?
Just about anywhere in the home. The living room, children’s room, patio, verandah, entertainment room…they all can benefit from the addition of the ‘Sacco’.
Look for one in a print, pattern, and colour that goes with your personality and that of the room. And always go for recyclable polystyrene to reduce your home’s carbon footprint.
