Milan (MI), Italy
The design world still mourns the passing of The European Prize for Architecture laureate Alessandro Mendini who died at age 87 in 2019.
His energy, his vision, and his whimsical genius seem to continue so clearly in our memory of this Titan architect.
His last design, a simple, straight-forward wooden cupboard in the shape of a trophy, created by the Spanish brand BD Barcelona, is so indicative of the architects’ ability to stretch the envelope to create something so distinguished, something so far-reaching, and something so provocative as was everything this architect touched with his imagination.
Created as a limited edition, the “Crisallo” features a colorful paneling and marquetry.
Crafted from MDF and veneered in sycamore wood, the cupboard is colored in red, blue and green, with a glossy finish with a graphic print of an intricate trophy embellished on the cabinet’s face, while a circular inlay appears on each side.
The interior of the cupboard has a veneered sycamore wood finish and fitted with shelving. The cabinet sits on a rectangular dark wooden base.
His last work is a wonderful celebration of his long career and his lasting influence on design and architecture.
Project: Cristallo wooden cupboard
Designers: Alessandro Mendini
Manufacturer: BD Barcelona Design