Outdoor Furniture Inspired By David Rockwell And Nicholas Roche

It was April in Italy when David Rockwell crossed paths with Nicolas Roche at Salone del Mobile in Milan. While both wished they were poolside at one of the Rockwell Group’s recently completed oceanfront resorts in Los Cabos, Mykonos, South Beach or Waikiki—rather than in a convention center hall—an idea sparked. Barry Richards, a principal who leads Rockwell Group’s product design, recalls the moment. “David and Nicolas were sitting in a sunken living room made of Roche Bobois’ signature Mah Jong sofas, called The Pool,” says Richards, describing the spot as “the perfect place to cool off after a long day on your feet.” Taking a dip in the refreshingly versatile sofa pit recalled a need for equally adaptive environments that are truly poolside. “Our designers need adaptable design,” he explains. “Something modern and clean that is able to transform from pool-by-day to club-by-night.” It’s this creative catalyst that inspired Sunset, the new outdoor furniture collection designed by the Rockwell Group for Roche Bobois. “We designed Sunset for hard environments with 24 hours of harsh sun, wild winds and intense rain,” Richards adds. The optional back sling can be for rolled-up beach towels or belongings; the table can pop on and off for cocktails or lunch; and back cushions can be attached to transform it into a sofa. “It’s the Clark Kent of outdoor seating.”

Two pools at resorts designed by the Rockwell Group that were inspired by its new Sunset collection for Roche Bobois: Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach in Hawaii and the Belvedere Mykonos in Greece.

Sunset lounge, price upon request, by Rockwell Group for Roche Bobois at Roche Bobois, 333 Buckhead Ave. NE