The latest from the design duo Hoffmann Kahleyss Design
With its wide range of modules and design options, the new Marie sofa by the design duo Hoffmann Kahleyss Design embodies effortless elegance.
Its versatile design allows for everything from compact sofas to spacious, sweeping forms or entire living room suites. The organic silhouette remains soft and flowing throughout. The characteristic clasp with its delicately ruffled seam on the back frames the model like a piece of jewelry. This striking, recognizable signature unites the entire Marie family and lends each individual model, as well as the entire ensemble, its very special radiance.
Interview with Hoffmann Kahleyss Design
FF: How did the idea for Marie come about?
CK: Freifrau stands for exceptionally comfortable, generously upholstered furniture. With Marie, we wanted to take this softness even further. The starting point was the Marie Chair, whose character we transferred to a sofa.
BH: The generous upholstery and the distinctive indentation in the back create the characteristic drape. This makes the sofa’s softness apparent at first glance.
FF: What makes Marie special?
BH: We wanted to take comfort to the next level. Marie is deliberately designed as a sofa you can sink into. The deep seat invites you to relax, lie down, and linger.
CK: At the same time, the curved modules and unique layouts open up many possibilities. It was important to us that Marie not only works against a wall but can also stand freestanding in the room.
FF: What kinds of spaces did you design Marie for?
BH: We had in mind spacious hotel lobbies, lounges, or special places with a lot of atmosphere—perhaps with a view of a lake, similar to Lake Como.
CK: Sitting in a semi-reclined position, enjoying the view, and completely relaxing—that was the intention. Think big!
FF: Does the sofa reflect your personalities?
CK: Our work thrives on dialogue. We develop, question, and refine ideas together.
BH: Christoph pays particular attention to ergonomics and construction. I’m interested in the emotional side of a piece of furniture—softness, comfort, and coziness. Marie combines both.
FF: What challenges did you face?
BH: The biggest challenge was translating the characteristic draping of the Marie Chair to the scale of a sofa.
CK: Added to that were the dimensions of the sofa itself—from craftsmanship to transportation. This is precisely where the close collaboration between design and manufacturing comes into play.
FF: What does the collaboration with Freifrau mean to you?
CK: After almost 15 years, it feels almost like family. Mutual trust allows for great creative freedom—and that’s often where the best ideas come from.
New Solid wood frame for Leya
Leya is also getting an update from its creators: a new solid wood base is now available, expanding the range of base options for Leya, Leya Armchair Low, and Leya Armchair High.
For more information, please contact our salespartners.
We welcome press inquiries at press@freifrau.com.
Read more: Welcome ADA
Meet the Designer: Hoffmann Kahleyss Design
Their furniture and interior designs are characterized by soft, organic forms. From their shared studio in Hamburg, the design duo imbues each of their creations with a look that is as expressive and distinctive as it is sensual.
Models for Freifrau: Amelie, Grace, Leya, Leyasol, Marla, Marie, Marie Sofa
