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Designers We Love

At Hopp Home, you’ll always be able to find a collection of vintage pieces that enrich interiors and are sure to add layers of depth and history to your space. We’re dedicated to curating antiques that celebrate the beauty and innovation of international modern design. We focus on quality furniture that showcases the sleek and functional lines of Mid-Century Modern design, the minimalist elegance of Scandinavian design, the bold creativity of Italian Postmodern design, and the refined sophistication of French modern design. 

Each item in the Hopp Home collection tells a unique story of craftsmanship and artistic vision. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a newcomer looking for the perfect piece for your space, our geographic glossary will provide some insight into the design styles we love from around the globe.

EXPLORING ITALY

In the post World War II era, Italy blossomed in terms of its openness to embrace new designs and new ideas. This area of reconstruction and industrial growth saw the rise of several designers that would come to define Italian modern design. Coming off of the Bauhaus era, which emphasized more form and simple geometric shapes, the post war era saw a new wave of designers experimenting with bold forms, luxurious materials, and vibrant colors, resulting in distinctive and eye-catching creations. The Italian modern design philosophy seamlessly blends traditional techniques with modern aesthetics, ensuring that even the most avant-garde pieces maintain a sense of refinement.

Here are some of our favorite stars of Italian Design. 

Mario Bellini

Mario Bellini is one of Italy's most renowned designers. As an architect his works included the Tokyo Design Center and the National Gallery of Victoria. He received the Golden Compass Award eight times and 25 of his works are in the permanent collection of the New York MoMA. Known for his innovative approach and versatility, his work often blends functionality with timeless aesthetics, incorporating cutting-edge technology and traditional craftsmanship.

Some of his most enduring and iconic pieces include:

Le Bambole sofa, (translating to "the dolls" in English) is a series first produced for B&B Italia in 1972. What makes Bambole special is there is no obvious load bearing structure; it has an inviting and enveloping look. 

Mario Bellini

The Camaleonda

A portmanteau of the Italian words “camaleonte” (chameleon) and “onda” (wave), is a direct reflection of the sofa’s modular nature. With its signature tie rod and ring system, its components can be hooked and unhooked to be combined into new shapes and designs to suit your needs.

Cab Chair for Cassina

Made of tubular steel and leather upholstery sewn and zipped onto the frame, it was designed to mimic the relationship between the human skeleton and the skin. It was the first chair to feature a free-standing leather structure. Bellini described his Cab chair as “a new kind of chair, made entirely of cowhide, often cloned today.”

Carlo Scarpa

A distinguished Italian architect and designer, Carlo Scarpa studied at the Accademia di Belle Arti, where he developed a profound appreciation for detail and materiality. His renowned works, such as the Olivetti Showroom and Il Palazzetto, are noted for their meticulous attention to materials, innovative use of space, and poetic integration with the surrounding environment. Scarpa's designs often feature intricate detailing and a unique fusion of old and new, reflecting his deep respect for history and his visionary approach to modern design. 

Afra and Tobia Scarpa

Tobia (the son of Carlo) and Afra Scarpa were an esteemed husband-and-wife design duo hailing from Italy, renowned for their influential contributions to 20th-century architecture and furniture design. Together, they created iconic pieces for renowned Italian furniture manufacturers such as B&B Italia and Cassina. The Scarpa duo's work often reflected a harmonious synthesis of modernist principles with a deep appreciation for traditional craftsmanship and materials.

Afra and Tobia Scarpa

Dialogo Chairs

Upholstered in luxurious leather, these chairs were designed by Afra and Tobia Scarpa in their typical post-modern style. With their sleek lines and sculptural forms, the Dialogo chairs make a bold statement in any interior space, whether used as dining chairs or statement pieces in a living room.

Afra and Tobia Scarpa

Soriana Sofa and Lounge Chairs

Winner of the 1969 Campasso d’Oro for its design, the Soriana collection designed by Afra & Tobia Scarpa for Cassina was meant to express beauty and comfort by using bundled fabric held in place by a chrome-plated steel clamp.

Africa Dining Chairs

Designed for Maxalto and part of the “Artona” line, this special series of wooden furniture utilizing traditional cabinet and lute-making methods was an intentional departure from the use of plastics in furniture design in the post-war era.

Gianfranco Frattini 

Frattini quickly established himself in the field of industrial design after graduating from the Politecnico di Milano in 1953, setting up his own practice in Milan and becoming a founding member of the ADI (Association for Industrial Design). Known for his friendly and collaborative spirit, he often worked closely with artisans, most notably with the legendary craftsman Pierluigi Ghianda, ensuring that each design was brought to life with exceptional quality. His work is characterized by its clean lines, thoughtful use of materials, and harmonious balance between form and function, reflecting his belief that good design should be both beautiful and practical. 

Sesann

Awarded honorable mention at the 3rd Compasso d’Oro, Frattini designed the Sesann system for Cassina in 1970. The collection included an armchair, two- and three-seater sofas, and a coffee table. The collection features an external chrome steel structure giving the polyurethane foam padding its iconic shape.

Vico Magistretti

Renowned for his innovative contributions to modern design, Magistretti's work spanned across various disciplines, including furniture, lighting, and urban architecture. Graduating from the Polytechnic University of Milan, he embarked on a prolific career that saw him collaborating with leading design companies such as Artemide and Cassina. Magistretti's iconic designs, characterized by their simplicity, functionality, and elegance, have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Compasso d'Oro award.

Vico Magistretti

Carimate

Crafted for Cassina, these ‘Carimate’ chairs were originally designed as restaurant dining chairs for the Carimate Golf Club in 1963. Constructed with lacquered beech frames, they exude a timeless charm and durability, while the rush seating adds a touch of natural beauty and comfort. Inspired by the tranquil countryside, these chairs embody Magistretti's ingenious fusion of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design sensibilities.

Angelo Mangiarotti

A distinguished Italian architect, industrial designer, and sculptor, Mangiarotti’s work spans a diverse range of projects, from industrial design and urban planning to furniture and sculpture. After graduating from the Politecnico di Milano in 1948, he left Italy for the United States where he interacted with architectural greats like Frank Lloyd Wright and founder of the Bauhaus school Walter Gropius. Mangiarotti's designs, such as the Eros table and the modular 4D storage system, are revered for their seamless blend of form and function, often incorporating innovative structural solutions. 

Giancarlo Piretti

Giancarlo Piretti is revered for pioneering work in the field of folding and stacking chairs, with his designs seamlessly blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. His iconic Plia chair, with its transparent design and folding mechanism, became an instant classic and the gold standard of minimalist, functional design.

Giancarlo Piretti

Alky Chair

These pieces epitomize Piretti's innovative approach to modern furniture design by showcasing a minimalist and sophisticated silhouette.  The chairs feature a comfortable, low-slung profile, making them perfect for lounging and relaxation. Constructed with the highest quality materials, including durable foam and chrome-plated steel, the "Alky" chairs offer iconic style and unmatched comfort. 

Achille and Pier Castiglioni

Brothers Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni were influential Italian designers and architects, renowned for their innovative and playful contributions to modern design. Together, they founded the Castiglioni Studio in 1944, producing a remarkable body of work that includes iconic designs such as the Arco lamp, the Snoopy lamp, and the Toio floor lamp. Their designs are celebrated for their ingenuity, functionality, and a distinctive sense of humor, often repurposing everyday objects into groundbreaking designs.

Gio Ponti

A pioneering Italian architect and designer renowned for his modern furniture creations, Gio Ponti had a keen eye for blending form and function. Collaborating with esteemed manufacturers like Cassina and Fontana Arte, he crafted famous pieces such as the Superleggera chair. Ponti's architectural genius extended beyond furniture, with landmark buildings like the Denver Art Museum showcasing his visionary talent. 

Gio Ponti

Fireside Chair

Constructed of solid walnut, this sculptural high ladder back chair is typical of Ponti's Italian modernist style. This piece combines the warmth of natural materials with the designer's signature design flair, featuring carved details and dramatic angles. Natural woven rush seats add a rustic touch to this design. 

Massimo and Lella Vignelli

Another formidable husband-and-wife design team, Massimo and Lella Vignelli are best known for their impact on modern graphic and industrial design. The couple met in the early 1950s while studying architecture at the Politecnico di Milano and married in 1957. After moving to the United States in the 1960s, they co-founded Vignelli Associates, where their seamless partnership flourished, blending Massimo's graphic design expertise with Lella's architectural and interior design skills. They became champions of a minimalist and timeless design philosophy, creating iconic works such as the New York City Subway map and the branding for American Airlines.

Saratoga Sofa

Designed for Poltronova, this modular sofa features clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic, embodying the Vignellis' commitment to simplicity and functionality.

Metafora Table

Massimo and Lella Vignelli's Metafora coffee table for Martinelli Luce is a captivating piece that transcends traditional design boundaries. This table features a square glass plate resting atop four Black Marquina marble shapes, each symbolizing a form of Euclidean geometry and representing significant historical and cultural elements. The sphere embodies the globe, the pyramid signifies Egyptian civilization, the cylinder represents the Roman Empire, and the black cube represents the sacred black stone of Kabba at Mecca. With the ability to reposition the elements freely, the Metafora Table offers endless possibilities for a truly unique composition in any space.

What sets Italian postmodern design apart from its Scandinavian counterparts is its emphasis on emotion, narrative, and symbolism. From the classical sculptures of ancient Rome to the Baroque splendor of the Renaissance, Italian designers have drawn inspiration from a diverse array of cultural influences. This fusion of past and present, tradition and innovation, is evident in every aspect of Italian postmodern design, from furniture and architecture to graphic design and fashion.

Italian postmodern design represents a captivating blend of tradition and innovation, with influences ranging from mid-century modernism to avant-garde experimentation. Through the visionary works of these designers, Italy has cemented its status as a powerhouse of design innovation, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

Whether you're drawn to the iconic designs of mid-century masters or the understated beauty of Scandinavian craftsmanship, authentic vintage pieces are sure to elevate your space with their enduring style and quality. You can always count on Hopp Home to provide high quality, authentic pieces for all of your decorating needs. Shop online now or book an appointment at our Brooklyn showroom.

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