The “Albero” is formally associated
with the Neoliberty period and, in
terms of product type, to the floor-to-
ceiling bookcase systems that were
popular throughout the 50s and 60s.
Designed by Frattini, the structure
stands out both for its complex
cabinet work and for its sculpted
nature, acting as the centrepiece of
a room. Supporting frame in solid
Canaletto walnut veneer with special
rack and pinion joint and shelves in
MDF with Canaletto veneer. Iron caps,
on the ceiling and ground, finished
with textured, wrinkled-effect black
paint. A metal “cup” is attached to the
ceiling inside which is inserted a steel
anchor bolt with adjustable metal
ferrules. The system has a 360° swivel
mechanism. Any number of shelves
from 8 to 12 can be fitted thanks
to the holes in the uprights.
Conceived in the late 1950s as a floor-
to-ceiling free-standing bookcase,
“Albero” was designed for use
in interior settings rather than
for serial production.
605
Il Giorno / The Day
604
Poltrona Frau Indoor Living
Albero
Giancarlo Frattini
Albero