If you’re venturing into the world of modern Italian design brands, CASSINA stands out as a touchstone.
While some brands like B&B have been synonymous with modern minimalism – think of a poised, flawless belle (though I personally prefer to equate it with a king in stature) – CASSINA is the versatile diva, shifting between moods yet always setting the trend. With nearly a century under its belt, CASSINA’s rich history and expansive product line have made it a chameleon in the world of design. Its vast partnerships with renowned designers have even earned it a comparison to Chanel in the realm of furniture design.
A Brief History Of Cassina
The Founding Era Established in 1927 in Meda, Italy, by brothers Cesare and Umberto Cassina, the brand was born out of a passion for creating exquisite furniture that combines art with functionality. Imagine a time when craftsmanship was paramount, and every piece told a story.
Expansion and Recognition From its humble beginnings, Cassina grew rapidly, gaining recognition not only in Italy but worldwide. How did they do it? By consistently pushing boundaries and collaborating with top designers of their era, Cassina cemented its reputation as a pioneering brand in the furniture design industry.
Iconic Products of Cassina
Rather than dwelling on its glorious history, let’s venture into the growth journey of CASSINA, as narrated by its iconic designs and the masterminds behind them:
1. Zig Zag (1934)
- Designer: Gerrit Rietveld
- Production Years: 1973 / 2011
With various nicknames such as the “Lightning Chair”, the Zig Zag is a design marvel. Its inception can be traced back to a time when concepts often preceded technology. At first glance, it challenges conventional weight-bearing structures with its striking appearance. Drawing inspiration from Mart Stam’s 1926 “S33” cantilever chair and the 1927 German “Sitzgeiststuhl” by the Rasch brothers, the Zig Zag seamlessly melds Dutch architectural characteristics into its form. Comprising just four wooden pieces, its diagonal alignment creates an illusion of instability, yet it remains robust and grounded.
2. Utrecht (1935)
- Designer: Gerrit Rietveld
- Production Years: 2015/2016/201
Rietveld’s knack for breaking norms shines again in the Utrecht series. Particularly, the geometric fabric limited edition, crafted by artist Bertjan Pot, lends a contemporary face to this iconic armchair. The fabric, labeled as BoxBlocks, is a weave of 19 vibrant colors, presenting a geometric pattern with no repetitive triangles. This tribute to Dutch design assures authenticity with its unique serial number.
3. Hill House (1902)
- Designer: Charles Rennie Mackintosh
- Production Years: 1973
A visual deception, the Hill House chair, with its ladder-like silhouette, gives an illusion of towering height, when in fact it’s a mere 140 cm tall. Mackintosh marries symbolism with linear geometry, drawing inspiration from abstract Japanese designs. The chair uniquely juxtaposes a tall backrest with horizontal rods and a grid seat, creating a lasting frame.
4. 2 Fauteuil Grand Confort (1928)
- Designers: Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret, Charlotte Perriand
- Production Year: 1965
Exemplifying ease and conversation, this armchair was unveiled as a modern archetype at the Salon d’Automne in Paris. The clear distinction between its metal structure and cushions exemplifies Rationalist principles. The collaboration between the trio of designers birthed many timeless pieces, with the armchair epitomizing their combined genius.
5. Veliero (1940)
- Designer: Franco Albini
- Production Year: 2011
Dubbed the ‘sailing ship‘, this bookshelf challenges gravitational norms. Crafted with glass partitions, ropes, and a dominant ‘V’ support, this mid-century design, though conceived in 1940, only saw production in 2011. A testament to its delicate balance and genius.
6. Maralunga (1973)
- Designer: Vico Magistretti
A CASSINA masterpiece, the Maralunga was re-introduced in 2013 as a 40th-anniversary edition. With its adjustable headrest, the piece exemplifies simple comfort. It boasts an award-winning design, securing the Compasso d’Oro award in 1979, inspiring countless imitations in its wake.
7. Feltri (1987)
- Designer: Gaetano Pesce
An avant-garde, experimental piece, the FELTRI seems to be swathed in blankets, offering a warm embrace. Crafted entirely of thick wool felt pads, Pesce’s passion for innovative materials is evident. The chair is both quirky and inviting.
8. Gender (2016)
- Designer: Patricia Urquiola
The Gender chair harmoniously combines a soft interior with a rigid exterior, showcasing the fluidity of its design. Patricia Urquiola, having graced the European design scene for years, took the helm as CASSINA’s design director in 2015, infusing a sense of fluidity and softness into the brand’s aesthetic. Her prowess in design isn’t merely because she’s one of the rare female designers at the forefront, but due to her undeniable talent.
CASSINA remains an embodiment of design evolution, echoing the voices of many masters of design. Each product tells a story, offering glimpses into the creativity and vision of its creators.
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