appreciate that, then it can be appreciated by other people”, said Chiara.
These projects feature a unique emotional charge since they truly
represent what they are, what they do and what they thought
throughout the year. Some of Studiopepe’s most famous products, that
are now in the collection of famous furniture brands, resulted from a
“Manifesto” process, like the iconic neon lamps that exalt the style of
the 60’s. “Our essence, that is not only about Product Design, but it’s
also about the way to communicate those products, how you show
them to the visitors, what there is in depth of each piece, as well as
the photography and so on. Maybe is 100% feminine characteristics, to
keep all together”.
This vintage fascination isn’t a new thing the design life of Arianna
and Chiara. They always have been influenced by the 50s thanks to
Milan’s exquisite architecture. Being a part of their history, the vintage
inspirations are also a big part of their work and the base of their
contemporary twist concept. The first time that the Studiopepe’s
designers have demonstrated their affection of the mid-century style
through their first “Manifesto” project, called Ed Visit, regarding an
Intimate hospitality concept and private residences. “One of these we
concluded 2 years ago, we tried to mix together Mid-century pieces,
original or from Gallery, with modern pieces, because we loved the
contrast, they got stronger each other”, said Chiara.
Creating unique mid-century collections is one of the biggest challenges
that Arianna and Chiara had to faced since it is a peculiar design style
with specific lines that can easily look to something that already
existed. One of the things that they had to avoid during their creative
process was to not create a scenography scenario, otherwise the final
result could be counter-productive. “We live in the 2020, even though I
appreciate those ages, we are here, and it is cool to get inspiration from
those years, making a re-elaborated version with a contemporary touch,
as the Great Gatsby’s house, or inspiration from theatre”, enhanced
Chiara when asked about the most challenging thing about embracing
the vintage design style.
Besides Milan’s beautiful architectural patrimony, the Italian designers
also found the best inspirational design ideas in details of Porto’s
incredible design heritage, like the unique architectural projects or
the fine craftsmanship techniques. After seeing the potential beneath
the master artisans’ skills, Chiara and Arianna found the right path to
create a twistfull design for the famous mid-century brands, Essential
Home and DelightFULL.
“We noticed there are a lot of affinities with Italy here in Portugal,
and that’s is very interesting, the passion for Wood’s Craftsmanship,
the etching and other materials as the glass, the ceramic and so on”,
highlighted Arianna. We can say that this partnership between
Studiopepe and Essential Home was the perfect opportunity to establish
bridges between the two countries with a strong heritage history.
“Once you realize how the materials can be used, the technics, the
processes, the care with which are produced, and all of the combination
you can make, off course for creative people it is like to be in a Luna-
Park”, said Chiara di Pinto.
A productive brainstorming gave wings to several ideas and possibilities
the Italian designers believe that this task was the ultimate break to
showcase their Made in Italy legacy and discover Portugal’s strong
craftsmanship techniques, like metal working, wood carving, porcelain,
