Jorge Zalszupin, born in 1922 in Warsaw, was a Polish-born architect and designer who left an indelible mark on Brazilian modernism. After fleeing Poland, Zalszupin studied architecture at the Beaux-Arts in Bucharest and later moved to France, contributing to the post-war reconstruction efforts. In 1949, Zalszupin set out for Brazil, captivated by its dynamic political, economic, and artistic transformations.

Establishing in Brazil:

Upon arriving in Rio de Janeiro, Zalszupin quickly integrated into the architecture scene, working alongside his fellow Polish compatriot Lucjan Korngold in São Paulo. By 1955, Zalszupin had begun creating custom furniture for the interiors he designed. He formally opened his agency, Escritório Técnico Prumo, in 1958, undertaking prestigious commissions like the new Air France boutique (1958), the decoration of the Teatro Cultura Artística auditorium (1959), and collaborating on the Mendes Caldeira building (1960).

L’Atelier and Iconic Brazilian Modernism:

In 1959, Zalszupin founded L’Atelier, his own furniture company, to meet Brazil’s growing demand for modern, diversified furniture. He opened his first store in São Paulo and quickly gained success. Zalszupin became one of the foremost designers of Brazilian modernism, blending European influences with Brazil’s unique aesthetic. His work is characterized by sensual yet geometric lines, organic shapes, and the use of fine woods and leathers. His mastery of woodwork, particularly in using Brazilian hardwoods like jacaranda and rosewood, exemplifies his attention to craftsmanship and functional elegance.

Iconic Pieces:

Zalszupin’s L’Atelier produced many iconic pieces that became staples of Brazilian modernism, including:

• Dinamarquesa Chair

• Presidencial Armchairs

• Sculptural Tea Trolley

Zalszupin was a pioneer in bentwood furniture design, and he often repurposed unused wood scraps to create stunning marquetry, seen in pieces like the Guaruja and Guanabara dining tables and the Andorinha and Pétalas coffee tables.

Embracing New Materials:

In the 1960s, with the advent of plastic, Zalszupin embraced new technical and aesthetic possibilities, creating the Hille Chair in 1968, an emblematic piece of this period. In 1970, the financial group Forsa acquired L’Atelier, retaining Zalszupin as the head. He eventually stepped down in 1988 to focus on architecture, splitting his time between Brazil and France.

Jorge Zalszupin remains a significant figure in design, celebrated for his ability to blend European modernism with Brazilian sensibility, making his furniture timeless examples of craftsmanship and innovation.