British furniture designer and manufacturer, Morgan, has partnered with award-winning design studio SmithMatthias for its first collaborative collection together, Bruton – an adaptable, modular furniture system made entirely without foam and using 100% natural materials. The collection will launch during Clerkenwell Design Week, 20-22 May.
Bruton redefines modular furniture by achieving a balance of functionality and softness. Unlike purely efficient modular designs that result in anonymous systems of straight lines and butting surfaces, Bruton offers versatility and a sculptural elegance.
The collection name ‘Bruton’ pays homage to Somerset’s creative heart, with the elegant organic shaping of the legs evoking the softness and curved form of wildflower petals.
“We wanted to create a collection that challenges the conventions of modular seating. Our focus was to develop a system that is both structured and inviting, without relying on standard contract specification foams. The commitment to natural materials presented a huge challenge, but it also informed the design in exciting ways,” comments Erin Johnson, Design Director at Morgan.
In a first for Morgan, Bruton is entirely free from petroleum-based foam, setting a new standard for sustainable seating. Instead, the collection incorporates an innovative combination of layered natural materials, including wool, coconut fibres, latex, duck feather and pocket springs to provide enduring comfort while reducing environmental impact. Produced with Morgan’s sustainable manufacturing practices at its Hampshire factory, which is powered by 86% renewable energy, including 50% by solar panels, the collection aligns with the brand’s commitment to responsible craftsmanship.
“With Bruton, we’ve pushed traditional upholstery materials, such as springs and wool, to their limits, redefining their use in a contemporary way. This innovative approach brings us full circle, using heritage techniques to drive modern design,” comments Gemma Matthias, Co-Founder of SmithMatthias.
Designed in collaboration with SmithMatthias, a studio known for its refined, sustainable approach, Bruton reflects a shared commitment to quality craftsmanship and material integrity. Founded by Jack Smith and Gemma Matthias, the duo takes inspiration from nature and traditional materials, designing for longevity rather than trends.
Morgan’s long-standing expertise in both upholstery, furniture making and woodworking has been instrumental in bringing Bruton to life. By housing design and manufacturing under one roof, the team has been able to experiment, prototype, and refine the collection efficiently, ensuring every element—from the upholstery detailing to the sculptural timber legs—is thoughtfully considered. “The ability to work directly with the design and production teams at Morgan has been invaluable,” comments Jack Smith, Co-Founder of SmithMatthias.
“Their openness to exploring new materials and techniques has allowed us to push the boundaries of sustainable furniture design. Through this collaborative way of working, we’ve been able to maintain the integrity of using 100% natural materials without compromise.”
The sofa’s design strikes a balance between light and luxurious, tailored yet comfortable—a domestic feel without being too homely. Horizontal lines across the base, arms, and back create a visual rhythm that enhances the sense of generosity and comfort. Meanwhile, the soft tailoring of the upholstery ensures a balance between structure and relaxation.
Bruton is designed to adapt seamlessly to a variety of settings, from workplace, healthcare and hospitality environments to cruise. Its modular nature allows for flexible configurations, while the use of sustainable materials ensures durability without compromising aesthetics.
With an emphasis on longevity and timeless appeal, the collection is available in a range of timber finishes and sustainable upholstery options, including fabrics made from 100% post-consumer waste or pure wool.
Bruton will be presented alongside new additions from the Barricane collection designed by Magnus Long and the Rakino collection designed by Tim Rundle. The Barricane collection, originally launched with dining chairs, now expands with a sculptural range of five solid timber occasional tables. Made entirely from timber, the new tables continue the collection’s celebration of natural materials and refined craftsmanship.
With flowing base-to-column joints, softened organic edges, and a unique ability to cluster together, the designs merge technical sophistication with a nature-inspired design. The Rakino collection also sees new additions; a new timber-back dining chair joins the range, alongside a series of pedestal dining tables. These new pieces retain the collection’s minimalist aesthetic with architectural elegance, and reaffirm Rakino’s versatility.
