C'est la vie – Premium Mahogany Lounge
The C'est la vie collection by Unopiù carries its name like a philosophy of life. "Such is life" – and the life this collection describes is one of leisure, enjoyment, and long stays on the terrace. Mahogany wood combined with a generous lounge concept: C'est la vie is a statement about the value of time spent outdoors.
The collection is made for people who don't just sit in the garden – they arrive there. The proportions are generous, the material warm and noble, the design timeless. C'est la vie doesn't need a trend.
Design and Form Language
C'est la vie follows a classic lounge geometry: deep seats, wide armrests, and back-friendly inclined backrests. The mahogany wood is laid in carefully crafted slats, giving the collection its characteristic warmth. The joints are clean and precise – demonstrating expert craftsmanship.
Particularly striking is the double daybed, a sun island for two people that can become the quiet centerpiece of any garden. It defines the area around it – anyone who sets up a C'est la vie double daybed needs no other furniture nearby.
Material: Mahogany Wood
Mahogany wood is one of the most noble wood types for outdoor use. It has a warm, reddish-brown color and a fine, uniform grain – both characteristics that distinguish mahogany from other tropical woods. The wood is naturally moisture-resistant and well-suited for outdoor use thanks to its natural oils.
Like all tropical hardwoods, mahogany will weather to a silvery-gray patina without care – if you want to preserve the warm original color, treat the wood 1–2 times a year with a suitable wood oil. Information on other outdoor materials can be found in our material guide.
The Furniture of the C'est la vie Series
The lounge core of the collection consists of the C'est la vie sofa and the C'est la vie lounge chair. The C'est la vie coffee table serves as a connecting element.
The centerpiece of the collection is the C'est la vie double daybed – a sun island for two people with separate adjustable headrests. The complete collection can be found on the C'est la vie collection page.
Use in the Garden
C'est la vie unfolds its effect on generous terraces and in pool areas. The mahogany wood harmonizes excellently with natural stone, light plastered facades, and Mediterranean-planted gardens. The reddish wood tone creates a warmth that other materials cannot generate in this form.
A combination with an Unopiù pergola gives the lounge group an architectural framework and provides sun protection without obscuring the wood aesthetic.
C'est la vie in the Context of the Unopiù Brand
C'est la vie represents the premium wood segment within the Unopiù range. Those looking for a teak alternative will find it in the Pevero collection made of teak and aluminum or the Chelsea collection. For the WaProLace® character, Agorà or Olimpia are suitable. All collections can be found on the brand page.
Technical Details & Material Comparison
Mahogany Wood – Properties at a Glance
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Wood type | Mahogany (Swietenia spp. / Khaya spp.) |
| Fresh color | Warm reddish-brown |
| Grain | Fine and uniform – very noble appearance |
| Moisture resistance | High – naturally oily, water-repellent |
| Hardness | Medium-hard – robust and workable |
| Care | Treat with wood oil 1–2 times annually |
Mahogany vs. Teak vs. Acacia Wood
| Property | Mahogany (C'est la vie) | Teak | Acacia Wood |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Reddish-brown, warm | Golden brown | Dark brown |
| Grain | Very fine, uniform | Coarse-grained | Lively, irregular |
| Weather resistance | High | Very high | High |
| Maintenance effort | Medium (oil 1–2 times annually) | Low (1 time annually) | Medium |
| Price segment | Premium | Premium | Medium to high |
Care in 3 Steps
- Clean: Clean mahogany surfaces with a damp cloth or a soft brush and mild soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and let dry.
- Oil: Treat once (preferably twice) a year with a high-quality wood oil for tropical hardwoods. Oiling protects the surface and preserves the reddish color.
- Protect: Cover furniture with a protective cover or store it during the off-season. Always store cushions. The wood is weather-resistant, but prolonged winter wetness can dull the surface.
Frequently Asked Questions about the C'est la vie Collection
How does mahogany differ from teak wood?
Both are high-quality tropical hardwoods. Mahogany has a warmer, redder color and a finer grain. Teak is slightly more resistant to water and requires less maintenance.
How do I care for mahogany furniture?
Mahogany should be treated 1–2 times a year with a high-quality wood oil. Clean and dry the surface before oiling.
Can C'est la vie stay outdoors all year round?
Yes, mahogany is weather-resistant. During the off-season, we recommend protective covers or storing the cushions.
Is the double daybed really for two people?
Yes. The C'est la vie double daybed is a sun island for two people and offers generous reclining space with separate headrests.
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→ To the C'est la vie Collection – all products at a glance
Other collections: Unopiù Brand Overview | Material Guide
