Joie de vivre: FERMOB

The French concept of Joie de Vivre is all about appreciating the vitality of being alive, and radiating it out to others. When designers practice Joie de Vivre, the resulting objects not only allow the user to focus on living life, but aim to enhance life too – bringing happiness through colour, comfort through shape, and ease through function.

This is central to the ethos of French outdoor furniture brand Fermob founded in 1890. After nearly a century of manufacturing iron gates and then garden furniture, it was bought by current CEO Bernard Reybier in 1989. From a metal workshop of 10 people, Bernard Reybier grew Fermob into a global brand of outdoor metal furniture, lighting, separators and, since 2013, when Vlaemynck was acquired, parasols.

Proudly designed in France alongside three French manufacturers, Fermob’s range now features 400 products across 60 collections available in an evolving palette of 24 colours. Constantly innovating with new technology, Fermob releases up to 30 new products and five new collections a year. Seeking the widest range of expertise, the fully integrated design office collaborates with 30 external designers from all over the world.

The meeting of Fermob’s history, evolution and trademark Joie de Vivre can be seen through the lens of the Luxembourg collection. With origins in the Jardin du Luxembourg of the 1920s, today it is ergonomic, stackable and durable – and still innovating. This year designer Frédéric Sofia added an armchair and lounge chair to the collection, while last year a stool and new high seats were introduced.

Injecting joy into outdoor spaces all over the world, Fermob’s success can be found in its union of colour and design. Each product adds a distinctive and uplifting identity to its place, while offering iconic, timeless and universal appeal.

© Stéphane Rambaud

© Architonic