Created by Studio Benu and Golshaah, the collection takes its name from the Mexico City neighbourhood that inspired it—Condesa, Spanish for “countess,” a word that evokes quiet strength, grace, and presence.
The collection began after a journey to Mexico City, where the founders—Neda Zavareh of Studio Benu and Golnar Ahmadian of Golshaah—found themselves deeply moved by the city’s architecture, artisanal traditions, and sculptural forms. Rather than translating these influences literally, Condesa interprets them through a contemporary lens, blending raw materiality with refined silhouettes.
At the heart of the collection is a recurring spherical motif. Soft curves, rounded volumes, and bulbous forms appear across the pieces—from mirrors and lighting to seating and tables—referencing both Mexican craftsmanship and the tactile language of sculpture. Each object balances weight and softness, grounding the design while maintaining an elegant visual lightness.
Materials play a central role in shaping Condesa’s identity. Solid oak, plaster-like finishes, ceramics, and textured fabrics are used intentionally, celebrating imperfection and the beauty of the handmade. The finishes are muted and earthy, allowing form and shadow to take precedence over ornamentation. Every piece is handcrafted in Canada and made to order, with customizable dimensions and finishes that allow each design to adapt seamlessly to its environment.
One of the most defining pieces in the collection is the floor lamp, which marked the beginning of the design process and proved to be the most technically challenging. Originally envisioned as a single sculptural ceramic form, its complexity led the designers to construct it in three distinct sections—an approach that preserved the integrity of the design while making production possible. The result is a piece that feels both monumental and intimate, reminiscent of a sculptural artifact.
The asymmetric sofa, supported by rounded oak legs, challenges conventional balance while remaining inviting and comfortable. The dining table, similarly asymmetric, explores rhythm and movement through varied leg forms, reinforcing the collection’s sculptural narrative. Completing the series, the floor mirror features a plaster-inspired finish and an organic, bone-like silhouette—subtle yet commanding, designed to exist as both a functional object and a statement piece.
Floor Lamp. Image courtesy of: 2spacephoto
Dining Table. Image courtesy of: 2spacephoto
Wall Sconce. Image courtesy of: 2spacephoto
Mirror. Image courtesy of: 2spacephoto
More than a furniture collection, Condesa represents an exploration across disciplines. For Golshaah, whose roots span architecture, fashion, and lifestyle design, the project reflects the fluid boundaries between creative fields. For Studio Benu, Condesa aligns with a philosophy rooted in emotional design, craftsmanship, and storytelling. Together, the collaboration blurs the line between art, furniture, and fashion—resulting in objects that feel deeply personal and timeless.
Condesa is not an endpoint, but a beginning. It marks the first chapter in an ongoing dialogue between two creative practices united by curiosity, cultural appreciation, and a shared belief that meaningful design emerges from lived experience.
Great design bridges past and future, creating spaces that evolve with us.
Our built environment is in a constant state of beautiful evolution. At Forma, we believe that architecture and design are deeply personal—they dictate how we live, grow, and connect across every stage of life. As a community of designers, architects, engineers, trades, builders, suppliers, students and creators, we are constantly tasked with bridging what was with what will be. Whether we are exploring innovative new builds, thoughtful restorations, or the visionary people shaping our industry, our mission remains the same: to look beyond the aesthetics. We invite you to explore the human stories woven into the brick, light, and landscapes of the spaces we inhabit. Thank you to everyone who reads, contributes, and shares in this vision.
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