Synonymous with modern luxury, French furniture brand Ligne Roset has long graced the homes of discerning design devotees in all corners of the globe.
The enterprise encompasses both a family tradition rich with more than 160 years of experience in furniture making and artful collaborations with established and up-and-coming talents in contemporary design. Arguably its most notable partnership being in the early 1970s with Michel Ducaroy of the famed Togo settee, which catapulted the brand into worldwide recognition.
With a global network of more than 200 exclusive stores, the latest addition to the Ligne Roset footprint is right here in New Zealand. Ligne Roset Marketing Director and the founder’s great-great-grandson Antoine Roset shares insight into his family’s business ahead of the exclusive Auckland showroom opening in August.
Describe Ligne Roset in one sentence…
A high-end, contemporary French furniture manufacturer and a family business operating since 1860.
Which of the brand’s achievements are you most proud of over its centuries-long tenure?
Our worldwide recognition.
How many different designers has Ligne Roset collaborated with over the years and how does the partnership process take shape?
We’ve worked with more than a hundred designers. Collaboration is formed through various channels including furniture fairs, annual design contests, word of mouth and contacts between designers.
How many in-house designers work for the brand?
We’ve worked with three major in-house designers: Michel Ducaroy of Togo and Saparella fame, Annie Hieronimus of Plumy, and Claude Brisson of Multy. These products are among the best sellers in the Ligne Roset collection.
Where are you based?
I spent 11 years heading our US branch in New York before returning to Lyon, France, two years ago where I live close to our headquarters and main workshops.
Do you have a personal favourite piece in the Ligne Roset collection?
No, because that would be too restrictive! My taste changes with time.
Why do you think Togo has withstood the changing trends, proving popular for decades?
After 48 years of existence, it’s remained a very unique design and an example of anti-conformist seating. Lightness, durability and creativity are probably the key successes of Togo.
Is there another piece, in your mind, set to take over the craze and demand of Togo?
It’s difficult to predict. We have several other standout designs that have been easily recognisable for years – decades even – such as the Ruché sofa and bed by Inga Sempé, Pumpkin sofa by Pierre Paulin, Peter Maly 2 bed by Peter Maly, Everywhere cabinet collection by Christian Werner, and Multy sofa bed by Claude Brisson.
What is your vision for how the brand positions itself to ensure future success?
Through creativity, customisation and high-quality products.
Your grandfather, Jean Roset, who headed the company at the time, had to field initial doubts about the Togo but believed in designer Ducaroy’s vision. What qualities make for a successful product pitch and how does the brand differentiate between a bold idea and something that will actually sell?
I wish we knew the answer to that! We call it a combination of both talent and chance. A mix of several criteria makes a new product successful including creativity of the design, its comfort and the approval of the public.
Following Lockdown the Ligne Roset Auckland showroom at 299 Great North Road, Grey Lynn will be open again. On display are an extensive range of lighting and accessories, and living and dining furniture from the 2021/22 collection, including Ducaroy’s coveted Togo settee. Other firm favourites are the Prado sofa by Christian Werner, Ploum sofa by R. & E. Bouroullec, Pumpkin armchair by Pierre Paulin and Pukka sofa by Yabu Pushelberg. The selection of outdoor furniture will arrive in time for our 2021 summer.
Viewing by appointment is available now; see ligne.nz or call 09 393 5636 for more information. Follow Ligne Roset New Zealand on Instagram and Facebook: @lignerosetnz