Philippe Roche was a visionary French entrepreneur and co-founder of Roche Bobois, a globally renowned luxury furniture brand. Born in the early 20th century, he played a pivotal role in transforming the landscape of modern furniture design and retail.
Early Years
Philippe Roche was born into a family with a strong background in the furniture industry. In 1950, his father, Jacques Roche, purchased the historic Alexandre Dumas Theater in Paris, converting it into a contemporary furniture showroom. Philippe and his brother François joined the family business, Établissements Roche, and began selling avant-garde furniture influenced by the Bauhaus movement .
Founding Roche Bobois
In 1960, Philippe and François Roche met Jean-Claude and Patrick Chouchan at the Copenhagen Furniture Fair. Recognizing their shared passion for modern design, they decided to merge their businesses. The Roches operated a store on Rue de Lyon, while the Chouchans owned "Au Beau Bois" on Boulevard Sébastopol in Paris. Together, they founded Roche Bobois, combining their expertise in furniture and accessories.
In 1961, they launched their first national advertising campaign in Elle magazine, marking the beginning of a long-standing tradition of innovative marketing .
Innovating Furniture Design
Philippe Roche's collaboration with designer Hans Hopfer led to the creation of the Mah Jong sofa in 1971. This modular, low-to-the-ground seating system revolutionized living spaces by offering unparalleled flexibility and comfort. Initially named "Lounge," it was rebranded as "Mah Jong" in 1990 and became Roche Bobois's best-selling design.
Expanding Global Presence
Under Philippe Roche's leadership, Roche Bobois expanded internationally, opening its first showroom outside France in Belgium in 1965. Subsequent openings included Canada in 1973, the United States and Spain in 1974, and Italy in 1995.
The company's innovative franchise model, which focused solely on retail without owning manufacturing resources, was revolutionary at the time and contributed to its rapid growth.
Legacy and Philosophy
Philippe Roche's approach to business was characterized by a commitment to creativity, quality, and collaboration. He believed in the power of design to transform everyday life and was dedicated to working with talented designers and artists to bring fresh perspectives to furniture design.
His legacy continues through Roche Bobois's ongoing collaborations with renowned designers and its dedication to innovation in furniture design. The Mah Jong sofa remains an iconic piece that embodies his vision of combining functionality with artistic expression.
Philippe Roche's contributions to the furniture industry have left an indelible mark on design and retail practices. His visionary leadership and dedication to quality and innovation have ensured that Roche Bobois remains a leader in the world of luxury furniture.
