Christian Liaigre for Holly Hunt “Beluga” Sofa — Iconic 2004 French Minimalist Design

Details

Description

Christian Liaigre (1943–2020) is widely celebrated as a master of refined minimalism, known for his serene silhouettes, exquisite materiality, and … Read more Christian Liaigre (1943–2020) is widely celebrated as a master of refined minimalism, known for his serene silhouettes, exquisite materiality, and exacting proportions. Born in the Vendée region of France, Liaigre was deeply influenced by the quiet beauty of the countryside where he grew up on his family’s farm. His connection to nature — and the understated elegance it embodies — became a lifelong signature in his work.

After studying at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, Liaigre began his career in the early 1970s as a design director at Nobilis Fontan. Unsatisfied by limitations on creative freedom, he went on to open his own design studio in the late 1980s. His holistic, modern approach quickly distinguished him worldwide. By 1985 he opened his first store, and in the following decade he became internationally recognized for designing iconic spaces such as The Mercer Hotel in New York City and private residences for luminaries including Calvin Klein, Bryan Adams, Larry Gagosian, and Marina Abramović. The Wall Street Journal described him as “a great minimalist,” known for elevating simplicity into art.

The American designer Holly Hunt was instrumental in bringing Liaigre’s work to the U.S. She introduced his collection in 1994, and together they produced the Christian Liaigre for Holly Hunt Collection until 2011. Pieces were handcrafted in France and sold exclusively through Holly Hunt under the name “Christian Liaigre at Holly Hunt” until 2017. Liaigre’s passing in 2020 only further cemented the desirability and collectible status of his original designs.

The Beluga Sofa, designed in 2004, is a striking example of Liaigre’s mastery. Defined by its sculptural wide arms capped in ebonized wood, deep, generous seating, and effortlessly balanced lines, the Beluga embodies the minimalist luxury Liaigre is known for. The sofa’s long single seat cushion and tailored back create both comfort and architectural presence, making it a timeless anchor piece for contemporary, transitional, or classic interiors.

This particular piece features:
• Wide architectural arms with signature dark wood tops
• A single long seat cushion — refined, elegant, and inviting
• Two oversized back cushions for a relaxed yet structured feel
• Clean, minimalist form crafted with Liaigre’s unmistakable precision
• Made in France, produced exclusively for Holly Hunt

A rare opportunity to acquire an authentic Liaigre sofa — beautifully understated, highly collectible, and increasingly difficult to find on the resale market. See less