Calligaris Introduces a New Made-to-Order Furniture Program

The Calligaris MTO Advantage

Speed Meets Sophistication

The new Calligaris USA MTO Program represents a significant departure from conventional made-to-order offerings. By combining Italian design with U.S.-based assembly, the program achieves what once seemed impossible: fully customized upholstered furniture with a production lead time of just 4 weeks from receipt of approved materials.

This transformation is more than logistical—it's philosophical. Where traditional MTO programs imported completed pieces from overseas facilities, resulting in 16-week lead times, Calligaris USA has strategically positioned production capabilities stateside at their High Point, North Carolina facility. The result is a program that maintains Calligaris' exacting standards of quality and craftsmanship while dramatically reducing the time from specification to delivery.

The program features a curated selection of Calligaris' best-selling seating designs, each available in multiple frame finishes and an extensive range of upholstery options spanning four fabric categories, from accessible Category A textiles to luxurious Category E materials. More significantly, every piece in the collection is available through the program's COM (Customer's Own Material) option—a critical feature for design professionals executing cohesive interior visions.

Understanding COM

The Interior Designer's Trade Secret

For those outside the design trade, COM—Customer's Own Material—may seem like industry jargon, but it represents something far more significant: creative control. In the world of interior design, COM is the bridge between a client's unique aesthetic vision and the furniture that brings that vision to life.

At its core, COM allows designers and clients to specify their own fabrics for upholstered furniture, rather than being limited to a manufacturer's predetermined textile offerings. This capability is essential when:

• Coordinating furniture with existing textiles in a space, such as curtains, wall coverings, or other upholstered pieces
• Sourcing exclusive or specialized fabrics that reflect a client's personal taste or brand identity
• Achieving specific performance requirements, such as commercial-grade durability, outdoor suitability, or specialized stain resistance
• Working within hospitality, corporate, or residential projects where textile consistency across multiple furniture pieces is paramount

The Calligaris USA MTO Program's COM offering is particularly noteworthy for its accessibility and thoroughness. Unlike many manufacturers who treat COM as an afterthought with vague guidelines and unpredictable results, Calligaris has developed a structured pre-approval process that ensures success. Designers send an 8"x8" sample to the High Point facility for technical assessment before committing to full yardage. This evaluation confirms the fabric's suitability for upholstery application, appropriate weight and durability, and compatibility with Calligaris' construction methods.

The program provides clear yardage requirements for each model—ranging from 1 yard for smaller chairs to 2.3 yards for more substantial pieces like the sculptural Anime collection. All fabrics must be 55⅛" wide (though exceptions can be approved), and the company has established straightforward shipping protocols that include proper identification labeling and roll packaging to prevent damage.

Importantly, Calligaris handles COM with the same 4-week lead time as their standard fabric offerings, a rarity in the industry where COM orders often extend timelines significantly.

Eight Iconic Designs, Infinite Possibilities

Calligaris Collection

Ines

The Ines chair collection embodies understated elegance with its softly rounded backrest and clean-lined metal frame. Available as a dining chair (CS2004), with arms (CS2079), or as a counter-height stool (CS2022), Ines adapts seamlessly to various dining and hospitality environments.

Frame options include matte black (P15), sand (P46M), and walnut wood-look finishes (P29L, P1GW), with the wood-effect finishes requiring an extended 6-8 week lead time due to their specialized application. The chair's compact dimensions—just 19" wide by 22¾" deep—make it ideal for space-conscious dining areas without sacrificing comfort. Pricing ranges from $557 for the armless dining chair in Category A fabrics to $1,145 for the counter stool in COM.

Fabric requirement: 1.1-1.4 meters (1.3-1.6 yards) depending on model

Annie

Annie brings a sophisticated silhouette to dining spaces with its gently curved back and splayed legs that provide both visual interest and structural stability. The collection includes a standard dining chair (CS1809) and an armless side chair (CS1852), both measuring a generous 22⅞" wide.

The Annie's upholstered seat and back create a cohesive, wrapped appearance that showcases fabric beautifully—making it an excellent canvas for COM applications where textile pattern and texture take center stage. Frame finishes in walnut-effect (P1GW) and matte black (P12) complement both traditional and contemporary interiors.

Starting at $580 for the side chair in Category A fabrics, Annie represents accessible luxury with timeless design appeal.

Fabric requirement: 1.2 meters (1.4 yards) both models

Foyer

MCM Reimagined

For spaces seeking that coveted mid-century aesthetic, the Foyer collection delivers authentic period style with contemporary construction. Available in three variations—dining chair (CS1888) with wood or metal legs (CS1896), the Foyer features the era's characteristic angled legs and sculptural seat that curves to embrace the sitter.

The CS1896 variant offers particular versatility with its choice of matte black metal legs (P15) or metal legs in sand (P29L) or brass finishes (P33L, P46M), the latter requiring 6-8 week lead times. This flexibility allows designers to calibrate the chair's aesthetic from industrial to warm and residential.

At approximately 23⅜" wide, Foyer provides substantial presence without overwhelming smaller dining areas. Pricing spans from $905 for standard configurations to $1,099 in Category E fabrics.

Fabric requirement: 1.4 meters (1.6 yards) all models

Holly

The Holly collection stands out for its distinctly architectural form—a curved, shell-like back that wraps protectively around the sitter, supported by elegantly tapered legs. This isn't merely a chair; it's a sculptural statement that happens to provide exceptional comfort.

Available as a dining chair (CS2037, CS2080) and counter stool (CS2038), Holly's generous proportions (22⅞" wide for chairs, 58" seat height for stools) create a substantial presence. The collection offers frame finishes in matte black (P15), sand (P46M), and walnut wood-look (P29L), with certain finishes requiring 6-8 week production.

Holly's dramatic form makes it particularly effective in COM applications where a bold textile pattern or rich texture can enhance its sculptural qualities. The chair's continuous upholstered surface provides an uninterrupted canvas for fabric expression.

Pricing begins at $679 for the dining chair in Category A fabrics, rising to $1,196 for counter stools in Category E textiles.

Fabric requirement: 1.7-1.9 meters (1.9-2.0 yards) depending on model

Anime

Our Personal Fave

For interiors demanding true luxury and visual drama, the Anime collection delivers with its signature vertical channeling that creates a tailored, haute couture aesthetic. This technique—more commonly associated with high-end automotive or yacht interiors—requires significantly more fabric and skilled upholstery work, reflected in both the piece's pricing and its commanding presence.

Available in dining (CS2210) and armchair configurations (CS2247), Anime's rounded, enveloping form and meticulously crafted channels create depth and texture that catch and play with light throughout the day. The collection measures approximately 25½" wide, providing generous, lounge-like comfort despite its dining chair classification.

Frame options span matte black (P15), sand (P46M), walnut-look finishes (P29L), warm walnut (P1GW), ebony (P12), and ash wood-look (P15L), offering extensive customization before even considering upholstery choices.

This is investment seating, with pricing from $978 in Category A fabrics to $1,222 in Category E materials. The substantial fabric requirement of 2.1-2.3 meters reflects the channeling's material intensity.

Fabric requirement: 2.1 meters (2.3 yards) both models

Fifties

Drawing inspiration from the optimistic design aesthetic of its namesake decade, the Fifties collection brings period charm without dated kitsch. The collection includes side chairs (CS1854) and counter stools (CS1864) characterized by rounded, padded backs and seats that recall mid-century diner seating elevated to residential elegance.

The chairs feature slim metal frames in matte black (P15), walnut-look (P29L), or sand finishes (P46M), while the stools offer these options plus a striking brass-effect finish (P175)—all specialty finishes requiring 6-8 week production times.

At 20½" wide for the side chair and 21⅛" for the stool, Fifties maintains a compact footprint ideal for smaller dining areas or breakfast bars. The separate back and seat cushions allow for creative upholstery approaches, including contrasting fabrics or leather accents.

Pricing ranges from $585 for side chairs in Category A fabrics to $993 for stools in Category E materials—representing exceptional value for such characterful design.

Fabric requirement: 0.7-1.1 meters (0.8-1.3 yards) depending on model

Connubia Collection

Connubia, Calligaris' more accessible brand, contributes four models to the MTO program, each offering the same quality construction with pricing tailored for budget-conscious projects.

Tuka Mid

The Tuka Mid collection brings soft, approachable curves to dining spaces with its rounded backrest and gently splayed legs. Available in standard (CB2183) and upholstered arm versions (CB2190), Tuka Mid measures 23¼" wide and 33⅞" high—ideal proportions for extended dining comfort.

Frame finishes include matte black (P15), ash wood-look (P151), warm grey wood-look (P176, requiring 6-8 weeks), ebony wood-look (P38M), open-pore walnut (P12), and charcoal wood-look (P132, P201). This extensive finish palette provides remarkable versatility across different interior styles.

Pricing starts at $659 for Category A fabrics ($732 for the armed version), with COM available at the same base pricing—unusual generosity in the category.

Fabric requirement: 1.6 meters (1.8 yards) both models

Tuka Mid with Open Back

A variation on the Tuka Mid theme, the Tuka Mid Hole collection (CB2306, CB2307) introduces a distinctive cutout in the backrest that reduces visual weight and creates an airy, contemporary aesthetic. This detail also reduces fabric consumption slightly compared to the standard Tuka Mid.

Sharing the same frame finish options and overall dimensions as its sibling, Tuka Mid Hole offers a more progressive aesthetic for modern interiors while maintaining the collection's essential comfort and proportion.

Pricing begins at $645 in Category A fabrics for the standard chair ($741 for the armed version), making it one of the program's most accessible entries.

Fabric requirement: 1.6 meters (1.8 yards) both models

Desy

The Desy collection represents pure, pared-down design—a simple round back and seat supported by slim metal legs. Available as a dining chair (CB2312) and counter stool (CB2339), Desy's 23¼" width and unadorned form make it a versatile foundation for bold COM fabrics that can transform its character entirely.

Frame options include matte black (P15), ash wood-look (P151), and ebony wood-look (P38M), providing contrast opportunities for both light and dark textile palettes.

At $517 for the dining chair and $571 for the counter stool in Category A fabrics (COM pricing identical), Desy offers remarkable value for projects requiring significant quantities or budget consciousness without aesthetic compromise.

Fabric requirement: 1.0 meter (1.1 yards) both models

The Fabric Library

Curated Quality Across Four Categories

Calligaris USA has assembled an extensive fabric collection organized into four categories, each selected for durability, aesthetic appeal, and upholstery suitability.

Category A features the Vintage v. collection in Desert (S0A) and Hemp (S0X) colorways—versatile, textured fabrics suitable for high-traffic applications with timeless appeal.

Category B expands options with three distinct fabric families:

• Aspen: offering Hemp (T2G) and Sand (T2H) in subtle, organic textures
• Anouk: available in Hemp (T3Q) and Taupe (T3R) with refined, contemporary character
• Voss: presenting White (S9F) and Grey (S9H) in clean, modern expressions
• Softer: featuring Hemp (T3M), Sand (T3N), and Cognac (SLS) in tactile, inviting textures

Category C introduces Kalix in Greige (S8P)—a sophisticated neutral bridging warm and cool tones, perfect for transitional interiors.

Category E represents the collection's luxury tier with two premium offerings:

• Boucle in Cream (SQM): providing the textural richness of boucle's characteristic loops and nubbly surface
• Paris in White (S9F): delivering refined, substantial weight and elegant hand

This curated selection ensures that clients can find appropriate fabrics across price points without sacrificing quality or aesthetic cohesion.

The Process

Simplified for Success

Calligaris USA has streamlined the MTO and COM ordering process to minimize complexity and uncertainty:

For Standard MTO Orders:

1. Specify model, frame finish, and fabric selection
2. Confirm order with Calligaris sales representative
3. Receive confirmation of 4-week production timeline (6-8 weeks for special finishes)
4. Track production and delivery

For COM Orders:

1. Select model and frame finish
2. Submit 8"x8" fabric sample with complete order information to Trade Source
3. Receive technical approval (typically within 1 week)
4. Ship required yardage (must be rolled, not folded) with proper documentation
5. Receive confirmation of 4-week production timeline from material receipt

We'll send you clear documentation requirements, including specific labeling protocols and shipment guidelines that ensure materials arrive properly identified and in optimal condition.

Technical Specifications and Practical Considerations

Several important details ensure successful outcomes:

• All fabrics must be 55⅛" wide (deviations require approval)
• Yardage specifications assume solid-color, defect-free materials
• Patterned fabrics may require additional yardage
• Seams and stitching will be executed in matching thread colors per Calligaris standards
• Non-upholstered structural components will be finished in Calligaris-branded fabric
• Calligaris retains any excess fabric (not returned to customer)
• COM fabric must be suitable for upholstery applications (weight, durability, content)
• COL (Customer's Own Leather) is not accepted in this program

Why This Matters

The Calligaris USA MTO Program represents more than expedited production—it's a fundamental rethinking of how customization can work in the modern furniture industry. By localizing production for their most popular seating designs while maintaining Italian design direction and quality standards, Calligaris has created a best-of-both-worlds scenario: European aesthetic sophistication with American production efficiency.

For design professionals, this translates to enhanced project management capabilities. A 4-week lead time allows for more realistic project timelines, reduces client frustration with long waits, and provides flexibility to respond to inevitable project changes or additions. The COM option ensures that furniture can be perfectly integrated into comprehensive design schemes without compromise.

For residential clients working with designers or purchasing directly, the program offers personalization previously associated with much longer timelines or significantly higher price points. The ability to see actual fabric samples, select from Calligaris' curated collection, or provide custom materials means furniture can truly reflect personal taste and integrate seamlessly with existing interiors.

In an industry often characterized by long lead times, limited customization, or prohibitive costs for bespoke work, the Calligaris USA MTO Program charts a new course—one where Italian design heritage, American production efficiency, and client-centered customization converge to create furniture that's both personal and promptly delivered.

Speed Redefined, Quality Maintained

The traditional Made-to-Order paradigm has long operated on an implicit bargain: accept lengthy lead times in exchange for customization. Calligaris USA's new MTO Program challenges that assumption, proving that with strategic production positioning, curated material offerings, and streamlined processes, customization need not mean compromise—whether in quality, aesthetic choice, or delivery speed.

From the sculptural drama of the Anime collection to the minimalist versatility of Desy, from accessible Connubia pricing to premium Calligaris finishes, the program offers a carefully considered range of seating solutions. Combined with comprehensive COM capabilities and a genuine 4-week production timeline, it represents a significant evolution in how customized furniture can be specified, produced, and delivered.

For an industry accustomed to the "fast, good, or affordable—pick two" paradigm, Calligaris USA's MTO Program suggests that perhaps, with the right approach, you can have all three.

Shop the complete Calligaris and Connubia furniture collection with expert customer service and nationwide delivery included at no cost a Trade Source. Contact us for more info!