Digamma Ottoman by Ignazio Gardella for Santa & Cole

The Digamma Ottoman is the footrest Ignazio Gardella designed to complete his 1957 reclining armchair. It carries the same black metal legs and the polished brass feet he jokingly called duck feet.

The Design Story

Gardella was an architect and engineer trained in the modern movement, and Digamma was his way of loosening its rigid rules. The armchair is built from two strict geometric volumes, yet the brass feet bring a note of irony. He added this matching footrest so the chair could become a true place to stretch out. Digamma first appeared through Azucena, the Milan editing house Gardella founded with Luigi Caccia Dominioni in 1947, was later re-edited by Dino Gavina, and has been produced by Santa & Cole since 2005. Each piece is upholstered and sewn by hand.

About the Designer

Ignazio Gardella (1905–1999) was an Italian architect and designer whose Digamma armchair and ottoman Santa & Cole reissues.

Why You'll Love It

• Designed by Ignazio Gardella as the partner to the Digamma Armchair
• Polished brass duck feet on black metal legs
• Hand-sewn upholstery in your fabric or a Santa & Cole group
• Compact 58 x 54 cm footprint
• CMHR foam option on special request

Made for Real Life

At 38 cm (15 in) high it meets the seat of the armchair, so legs rest level. The brass feet will slowly develop a soft patina with use, and the upholstery can be done in a tight weave that stands up to everyday wear. Vacuum the upholstery with a soft brush and blot spills right away. Wipe the brass feet with a dry soft cloth and skip metal polish if you like the patina.

Product Details

Where It Shines

Set it in front of the Digamma Armchair for a full mid-century reading corner, or use it alone as a footrest at the end of a bed. It suits rooms with walnut, travertine or brass accents.

Who This Is Not For

This is a small footrest, not a coffee table or a pouf for sitting in groups. Customer's fabric must be approved by Santa & Cole before production.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are the feet called duck feet?

Gardella's polished brass feet splay out at the end of the legs, a touch of humor he added to an otherwise strict rationalist design.

Who produces the Digamma today?

Santa & Cole has produced Digamma since 2005, on assignment from Dino Gavina, who re-edited the original.

Can I send my own fabric?

Yes. The customer's fabric option needs 0.85 m (0.93 yd) of plain fabric at 1.40 m (1.53 yd) wide, validated by Santa & Cole.

Which fabric groups are offered?

Cyber, Select or Grain in one group, and Tailor, Focus, Focus Melange, Focus Royal or Capture in another.

Is it sold with the armchair?

No, it is sold on its own so you can add it to a Digamma Armchair or use it alone.

How long until it ships?

It is made to order in Spain with a production lead time of 8 weeks, then shipped directly to you.

Shipping