CMP
The Italian design trio CMP have left Milano for Como in
order to get some perspective and creative distance from the
chaotic design capital of the world. They are now situated in
the shadow of the Alps and with Giuseppe Terragni’s famous
Casa del Fascio – a landmark of European modern architec-
ture – almost next door. Michele Cazzaniga, Simone Mandelli
and Antonio Pagliarulo were all in the same class at il Politec-
nico in Milan during their studies, which ranged from food
design to graphic art through fashion and industrial design.
After working for a range of companies in the Italian design
industry, they have been amply recognised with a number of
prizes, including the ADI Design Index, the German Design
Award and the Red Dot award. They are keen to use dialogue
as a key design development concept in every assignment.
Milan might be the design capital, but the outdoor element
is quite neglected. How can public spaces be improved?
“The park bench brings people together. You can sit by
yourself or chat with others. Just look at the movies by Woody
Allen and you see the superpower of the outdoor bench. We
can also learn about the use of public space in Latin countries
where the piazza is a natural point of reference in cities both
small and large.” CMP
Park it indoors
Some furniture wants to get out in the sun. Ironically, Park+
does the very opposite by bringing the outdoors indoors. Chat
with friends, read a magazine, work on your laptop… all with
the same easy-going freedom as on a park bench. Italian
design trio CMP have devised a totally flexible seating system
that instils a feeling of Scandinavian outdoor relaxation in pub-
lic spaces craving communal informality. Park+ is available
with soft textile or leather cushions, and in a range of muted
colours. The little interlinking table lets allows 2-seaters, 3-seat-
ers and individual chairs to connect and arrange themselves
in whatever configuration you desire. The neatly spaced seat
and backrest slats reduce the need for cleaning.
CMP Design | 2O20
