“As an upholstery material, leather adds tactility, comfort and flexibility, adapting naturally to the shapes of our designs.”

What does leather bring to Sancal’s design philosophy?

Leather appeals directly to the senses, and that emotional connection aligns closely with how we understand design: as something that forms a bond with people, not just a visual impression. We see leather as a living material that breathes, changes and gains character over time. Its natural texture, warmth and durability give our products a timeless presence.

We also value the small irregularities in more natural leathers. They speak of origin and authenticity. Not everyone recognises them as a distinctive feature, but for us they contribute to the identity of each piece.

As an upholstery material, leather adds tactility, comfort and flexibility, adapting naturally to the shapes of our designs. It performs beautifully in both residential and contract settings. Sustainability and traceability are equally essential. We care about where the material comes from and how gently it is treated throughout production, both to preserve its beauty and to reduce environmental impact.

“We do not fear colour”

What makes Elmo a natural partner for Sancal?

Elmo’s philosophy resonates with ours. They merge craft and innovation in a way that bridges tradition and future. Their leathers are soft and warm to the touch, with refined, natural finishes that integrate seamlessly with our forms. Their colour palette offers a generous range of subtle and expressive tones.

We also share a strong environmental commitment. Elmo’s responsible tanning processes and circular production provide trust and transparency. At Sancal, sustainability is not a trend but a guiding principle, and in that sense our two companies meet on common ground.

How do you use colour as a design language at Sancal?

Colour is part of our identity. For Elena and me, it is not a surface treatment but a design tool that shapes atmosphere, tells stories and gives character to each piece. In some projects, colour becomes the central idea. In others, it quietly supports form or material. But it is always present and always intentional.

For us, colour is a language without limits. Certain combinations evoke energy and freshness, others offer calm or sophistication. We play with tone and texture to bring products to life, adapt them to different environments and trigger different emotions depending on the context. We do not fear colour, and we embrace the full spectrum, from nuanced neutrals to saturated hues.

Why does Teklan’s way of working resonate so strongly with Sancal?

Collaborating with Teklan feels natural because we share a sensitivity to colour, texture and emotion. Her background as an architect, paired with her photographic and artistic eye, allows her to interpret spaces in surprising and thoughtful ways.

We admire her balance between precision and spontaneity. Her palettes are carefully considered yet feel fluid and effortless. Her colour combinations are daring and subtle at the same time, a mastery that is rare. Her graphic sensibility and poetic compositions have a dreamlike quality we are deeply drawn to.

In her scenographies, our products integrate seamlessly. She shows how colour, texture and form can interact to create expressions that resonate emotionally, revealing new ways of experiencing a space.