PERCIVAL LAFER

Percival Lafer, a renowned Brazilian architect, designer, and industrial designer, was born in 1936 and studied at the Mackenzie Presbyterian University College of Architecture in São Paulo. Following his graduation, he assumed the leadership of LAFER, his late father’s furniture company, alongside his brothers. Established in 1927, the company specialized in the trade of furniture pieces. Lafer gained significant recognition for his chair and sofa designs, characterized by the harmonious combination of low-profile hardwood structures and plush leather upholstery. His primary objective was to create accessible furniture items that would bring good design to the masses.

In 1961, Lafer introduced the MP-1 armchair, which rapidly captivated an audience unaccustomed to consuming sophisticated furniture pieces. The MP-1 chair introduced novel shapes, finishes, and materials, incorporating metal profiles in conjunction with wood. This groundbreaking creation paved the way for a series of new products, effectively dispelling the prevailing notion that design was incomprehensible to the general public. Consequently, Percival Lafer revolutionized the Brazilian furniture market. It is worth noting that the initials “MP,” signifying “Patented Furniture,” were subsequently incorporated into the company’s logo, solidifying the brand as MP Lafer.

With an unwavering commitment to comfort, ergonomics, and aesthetics, Percival Lafer dedicated the majority of his time to conceiving innovative products. Simultaneously, he nurtured his passion for architecture by designing a collection of houses for his acquaintances. To this day, he continues to operate from the same premises in the Cambuci district of São Paulo, where he oversees the design process. Percival Lafer’s accomplishments as an architect, designer, and industrial designer of Brazilian furniture have garnered global acclaim, and his creative prowess remains unabated.