Alessandro Becchi Anfibio Sofa Bed for Giovannetti in Natural Grey Leather, 1970s

Anfibio sofa bed designed by Alessandro Becchi for Giovannetti and produced in Italy in the 1970s.

First conceived in 1970, the Anfibio is one of the most recognizable examples of transformable Italian design. Its generous cylindrical back and armrests create a continuous, enveloping silhouette, while the distinctive leather lacing and flexible construction allow the sofa to unfold into a generous sleeping surface. In its closed configuration, it functions as a sculptural low-profile sofa; once opened, it becomes a large bed, combining seating and sleeping functions within the same radical design.

The Anfibio quickly became an international reference in 1970s Italian furniture design. The Museum of Modern Art in New York holds an Anfibio Convertible Couch dated 1971 and manufactured by Giovannetti in its Architecture and Design collection. Alessandro Becchi and the Anfibio were also represented in the landmark 1972 exhibition Italy: The New Domestic Landscape, which introduced some of the most innovative Italian design of the period to an international audience.

This vintage example has been fully restored by our workshop and reupholstered in high-quality natural grey Italian leather, selected for its soft feel and subtle tonal variation. The interior sleeping surface is finished in soft white sheepskin, creating a warm contrast with the natural grey leather exterior while preserving the distinctive character of the original design.

The characteristic leather lacing, fastening straps and structural elements have been carefully inspected and restored to ensure proper functionality in each configuration. The upholstery remains soft and inviting, while the generous proportions and rounded profile retain the relaxed, sculptural presence that made the Anfibio sofa one of Alessandro Becchi’s most celebrated designs.

Presented in excellent restored vintage condition, this Anfibio sofa bed combines the expressive language of 1970s Italian design with the versatility of a convertible sofa, daybed and sleeping surface, making it equally suited to a residential interior, design collection or contemporary living space.