Presented at Milan Design Week 2026, Roche Bobois’ latest outdoor collection redefines open air living through a seamless interplay of bold design, exceptional savoir-faire and elevated comfort. Conceived for terraces, gardens and poolside settings, the collection reflects a refined and contemporary approach to outdoor design, where elegance meets ease.
The collection unfolds across two defining pillars.
The first marks the return of Stephen Burks, whose Catalina collection distils his signature dialogue between craftsmanship and industrial design. With a focus on artisanal detailing, refined finishes and responsibly sourced materials, the collection offers a sophisticated yet deeply tactile expression of outdoor living.
In parallel, Roche Bobois continues its collaboration with Missoni, unveiling the Formentera collection. Vibrant and expressive, it brings together bold patterns, rich textures and dynamic colour palettes, transforming outdoor seating into a confident statement of contemporary style.
A Singular Voice in Contemporary Design
Widely regarded as one of the most influential designers of his generation, Stephen Burks has established a practice that bridges industrial production with traditional craft. Born in Chicago in 1969, he studied product design at the Illinois Institute of Technology before completing a Master of Architecture at Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation. In 1997, he founded his Brooklyn based studio, now known as Stephen Burks Man Made.
His work is defined by a collaborative and globally engaged approach, partnering with artisans around the world to integrate time honoured techniques such as weaving, basketry and cord work into contemporary design. The result is a body of work that is both culturally resonant and unmistakably modern.
His relationship with Roche Bobois began in 2014, marking a significant moment in the brand’s international expansion. Since then, his work has been exhibited at leading institutions including the High Museum of Art, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, as well as featured in the United States Pavilion at the 19th Architecture Biennale in Venice.
Among his many accolades, Burks was awarded the Smithsonian Cooper Hewitt National Design Award in 2015, becoming the first African American designer to receive the honour. In 2026, he and his partner Malika Leiper were recognised with the Wallpaper Design Award for Best Helping Hands, celebrating their inclusive and collaborative ethos.
With Catalina, Burks introduces a collection defined by sculptural silhouettes and enveloping comfort, an elegant extension of Roche Bobois’ outdoor lifestyle where design, craftsmanship and contemporary luxury converge.
“At Roche Bobois, the vision of design continues to evolve through the embrace of distinctive creative voices. Stephen Burks embodies this philosophy – his multicultural perspective and deep respect for craftsmanship bring a profoundly human dimension to his work.”
– Éric Amourdedieu, Group Executive Director