The Life of Vico Magistretti
Born in Milan, Italy in 1920, Vico Magistretti was an influential Italian designer and architect who dedicated his life to creating innovative, functional, and beautiful designs. He came from a family of architects and artists, which likely contributed to his love of design.
Magistretti studied architecture at the Politecnico di Milano, graduating in 1945. After graduation, he worked in his father’s architectural firm before branching out to pursue his own design interests. He would go on to become one of the most significant figures in modern Italian design.
The Works of Vico Magistretti
Over the course of his career, Magistretti created a wide range of designs, ranging from furniture to lighting to architecture. His work was characterized by its minimalism and simplicity, as well as its focus on functionality and user experience.
One of Magistretti’s most iconic designs is the Eclisse table lamp, which he created in 1967. The lamp features a bold, spherical shape and a unique rotating mechanism that allows users to adjust the amount of light emitted. It remains a popular design to this day, and is considered an icon of 20th-century modernism.
Another notable Magistretti design is the Maralunga sofa, which he created in collaboration with the Italian furniture company Cassina in 1973. The sofa features a unique sliding headrest that can be adjusted to the user’s liking, offering superior comfort and functionality.
Magistretti was also known for his architectural designs, including the headquarters of the Italian electronics company Olivetti. His work at Olivetti helped establish the company as a leader in modern design, and his buildings continue to inspire architects and designers to this day.
Magistretti’s Legacy
Vico Magistretti left a significant impact on the world of design, and his influence can still be seen in many contemporary designs. His dedication to simplifying and optimizing everyday objects has helped to shape the field of industrial design, and his emphasis on user experience and practicality has helped to make design more accessible and relevant to people’s lives.
Today, Magistretti’s designs can be found in museums and private collections around the world, and his ideas continue to inspire new generations of designers. His legacy is a testament to the power of good design, and serves as an inspiration to those who seek to make the world a better place through creativity and innovation.
