The Combi Sofa: A Dialogue in Design with Hildy Kovacs

The Combi Sofa:

A Dialogue in Design with Hildy Kovacs

urniture that truly works elevates spaces, offering not just functionality but a sense of balance, adaptability, and style. The Combi sofa from Kovacs is one such piece—a design that invites interaction and transforms spaces effortlessly.

Designed by Hildy Kovacs, the Combi is a recreation of the earlier QBE design by Kovacs, evolving into something that feels as much a solution as it is a statement. “The Combi is about versatility,” says Hildy. “We wanted to create something dynamic—suited to commercial spaces, family homes, or even outdoor settings, without compromising its aesthetic appeal.”

At the heart of the Combi is its weighted backrest system, a subtle yet ingenious feature. “It’s designed to stay secure under normal use,” explains Hildy. “The backrest applies gentle pressure, combined with a non-slip base fabric, to hold its position. Yet, it’s light enough to move with ease when needed.” This seamless blend of practicality and comfort defines the Combi, making it an intuitive choice for flexible liing.

The Combi adapts beautifully indoors or outdoors in commercial or residential spaces. For home settings, soft, stain-resistant fabrics are recommended for their welcoming feel, with treated natural fibres and performance textiles ensuring both comfort and durability. Outdoor versions rely on resilience, using UV-resistant, water-repellent fabrics like solution-dyed acrylics that withstand the elements while retaining their look. In high-traffic commercial environments, robust, abrasion-resistant fabrics with antimicrobial finishes add an extra layer of functionality and hygiene, making the Combi an ideal choice for shared spaces.

The Combi also reflects Kovacs’ commitment to sustainable design. Its use of recyclable foam underscores an ethos of environmental responsibility. “This foam can be repurposed into underlay, creating a circular lifecycle,” says Hildy. “We’re mindful of every material choice, especially for outdoor applications, where we avoid harmful offshore foams in favour of a locally sourced product overlayed with a water-resistant barrier.”

Behind the Combi’s contemporary aesthetic lies an uncompromising focus on comfort. “Achieving the right foam density was key,” Hildy explains. “It needs to be firm enough to maintain clean lines and structure, yet soft enough to provide exceptional comfort.” The result is a sofa that feels as good as it looks.

The Combi isn’t just a piece of furniture; it’s an adaptable solution for everyday life that gives the option for creative layouts. From transforming ottomans into sprawling seating for movie nights to creating polished configurations for entertaining, the Combi shifts effortlessly to suit the moment.

“It’s more than a sofa,” Hildy concludes. “It’s a piece designed to grow and evolve with the spaces and people it serves.” Thoughtful, innovative, and undeniably stylish, the Combi reflects Kovacs’ commitment to timeless design.

Below, see various layout configurations that can be achieved with the Combi. Visit Kovacs online to explore the Combi collection or to experience the quality first hand, visit one of their showrooms in Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch.