Vico Magistretti

Vico Magistretti was a 20th-century Italian designer and architect, best known as a leading figure of Milanese Rationalism. He is particularly admired for his experimental yet harmonious designs, which range from small decorative furnishings to elaborate architectural façades.

Born in Milan in 1920, Magistretti studied architecture at the Milan Polytechnic but was forced to abandon his studies with the outbreak of the Second World War. Having fled to Switzerland to avoid Italian military service, he resumed his studies; it was during this time that he became drawn to rationalism and familiarised himself with modern design. On his return to Milan, he completed his studies at the Polytechnic and presented a series of innovative designs at the R.I.M.A. exhibition and the Triennale.

His varied use of neutral and colourful tones, new forms, and creative, user-friendly yet elegant and comfortable designs proved hugely successful on the Italian and international art scenes. In the 1960s, Magistretti began collaborating with some of the world’s leading manufacturers – from Artemide to Oluce – to design furniture and objects that are still regarded as ‘classics’ of modern design.

His red Eclisse table lamp, designed for Artemide in 1967, won the Compasso d’Oro award that same year. The entire Eclisse collection is much loved as his works blend aesthetics with functionality. This model is part of the permanent collection at MoMA in New York and the Triennale Design Museum in Milan. 
Also featured is the Maui collection of chairs and tables produced by the Italian firm Kartell. These creations, with their minimalist and functional design, are available in a range of colours and materials and rank amongst Kartell’s best-selling classics.

His works are now known throughout the world, as each piece demonstrates his remarkable ability to combine simplicity and minimalism in contemporary design.