Knoll Portraits Vol.8 — Contemporary: The Perron Pillo Sofa designed by Willo Perron “I wanted to create this really simple, big gesture, like a bunch of pillows stacked on top of each other.”Willo Perron The Perron Pillo Sofa is designed by Willo Perron for Knoll to adapt. The individual modular components can be combined in countless ways and reconfigured as needs and locations change. It is a collection that challenges preconceptions. What appears to be a freestanding stack of oversized pillows is, in fact, engineered to offer lounge-like support for sitting, curling up, and stretching out. Creating a sofa that’s evocative and inviting was integral to designer Willo Perron’s approach. “Everything I do has a bit of humor in it,” he says. “I wanted the sofa to evoke surprise and emotion.” Willo Perron on his WILLO CUBE, Perron Pillo Collection by Knoll Select from two depths to match the size and function of your space—Standard is smaller and more upright, while Deep offers a more lounge-like sit. When it comes to upholstery, Pillo’s simple construction welcomes a variety of textiles—making it a showcase for the customer’s creativity. “It’s a choose-your-own-adventure experience”, says the designer. Since 1938, Knoll has remained true to the Bauhaus philosophy of “total architecture”—where furniture complements architectural space to create a harmonious design. This comprehensive approach began with Florence Knoll, who didn’t want to merely decorate space. She wanted to create it. Today the Knoll portfolio includes classic and contemporary pieces that work together to create a complete experience of the interior setting. The designer Willo Perron is a French-Canadian creative director and multidisciplinary designer, who brings an unconventional twist to everything he creates, whether it’s a set design, retail rebranding, or residential interior. The same is true for his approach to furniture. His modular Pillo Sofa Collection is both intriguing and inviting. Montreal-born Willo Perron has established himself as a globally respected creative director and designer, with expertise spanning audiovisual content, video production, and design. Renowned for his ability to craft compelling concepts and visually striking creations, Perron launched his career with a stint at Apple before founding his own firm, Willo Perron and Associates. Later, he co-founded the multidisciplinary studio Perron-Roettinger with Brian Roettinger. The studio has collaborated with prominent brands like Adidas and Stussy, with their innovative designs showcased at major international exhibitions. Perron’s work is characterized by an emphasis on scale, clean forms, and intentional use of space, elements that are integral to his design ethos. His portfolio includes high-profile audiovisual collaborations with artists such as Kanye West (including the design of Yeezy Studio and live performance staging), Lady Gaga, and Rihanna. Drawing inspiration from the Bauhaus movement, Perron adopts a holistic approach to projects, integrating disciplines like industrial design and marketing to create cohesive artistic statements. In 2024, Perron is set to take part in the World Sports Creativity Sessions at the Paris Olympic Games, emphasizing the transformative role of design in advancing the sports industry. Additionally, some of his signature designs, including the Sausage sofa and the FKA bed, will be showcased in SIDE Gallery’s curated collection of iconic pieces.
