Faux Cushioned Benches

Poppins by Alessandra Baldereschi, a designer based in Milan, Italy, is a collection of benches that are made to give the impression of couches and sofas. Benches are more often than not comprised of hard surfaces, yet this series wants people to believe they are cushioned. This illusion is achieved through the use of built in 'pillows' that are essentially protruding padding.

Available in an array of different color combinations, Poppins by Alessandra Baldereschi look more like pop art sculptures than actual pieces of furniture. According to the designers, "The inspiration [for the benches] comes from the Optical Art’s method which, through the use of color and geometric shapes, creates, starting from a plane a three-dimensional optical illusions." In a way, they are art.