Folded by nanimarquina Turns Rugs into Sculptural Seating

It looks like a type of origami made from a textile instead of paper. It’s Folded, a uniquely formed new bench for nanimarquina, designed by company founder Nani Marquina in collaboration with Spanish industrial designer Manel Molina.

The concept is simple: The form replicates a rolled-up rug folded into a bench shape. In reality, the commercial-grade bench comprises a wooden frame upholstered in nanimarquina’s Kilim Afghan wool fabric, one of the brand’s flooring rugs suitable for both commercial and residential spaces.

"With this bench, we wanted to explore new dimensions of the carpet concept, taking it beyond its usual use and giving it a three-dimensional presence in space," Marquina offers.

Intriguing and artistic yet highly functional and comfortable, the Folded bench brings personality to any commercial, hospitality, or residential space. Standing at 18 inches high and wide, the bench comes in three lengths (24 inches, 38 inches, and 47 inches) and can be upholstered in three designs: Colors, solid fabrics that help accentuate the bench’s shape; Pattern, which illustrates texture; and Flowers, with detailed embroidered flowers.

Describing the duo's intent with this innovative design, Molina says, "We seek to merge art and functionality into an object that transcends the conventional."

The result? A sculptural seat that turns the humble rug into a statement of artistry and comfort—folding form, function, and whimsy into one.

See Folded for yourself at BDNY 2025 (Nov. 9–10, Jacob K. Javits Center, New York) at nanamarquina’s space (Hall 3B, Booth 1933).