80 Years of Innovative Ideas Shared with the World

The day before the opening of MILANO SALONE, a press conference was held at the Milan Museum of Modern Art (GAM). The museum, housed in a historic building from the late 18th century, sits within park grounds where greenery rustles with the arrival of spring. In its solemn courtyard, two giant, striking red symbols suddenly appeared: the "Milano" chair, a long-selling masterpiece by Aldo Rossi that made Molteni world-famous, and an "!" mark object, symbolizing the surprise and admiration for Molteni's 80th anniversary.

The Milan Museum of Modern Art agreed to this project, not merely as a brand endorsement, but for its historical and archival significance. For the first time, the museum participated in the Salone program by hosting Molteni's collection within its walls. In ten exhibition rooms displaying 290 works, primarily 19th and 20th-century paintings from the Grassi Hofmann Collection, Molteni's historical pieces—considered documents of Milan's design history—were exhibited in dialogue with the existing collection.

Molteni entrusted product designer Jasper Morrison with this 80th-anniversary exhibition project. On display pedestals, featuring pure, essential forms inspired by the details of Gio Ponti's bookshelves—hailed as the father of Italian architecture and design—were carefully selected masterpieces from the Molteni Group. These were arranged to maintain a balance with the permanent exhibition space and artworks. Francesca Molteni, the third-generation family member, explained that the reason for entrusting Morrison with the program was the need for "a third party who could accurately support the selection," not only to connect with the company's long history but also to ensure the continuation of Molteni's industrial expertise.

After founder Angelo Molteni established his artisan workshop, Molteni quickly adopted series production in the 1940s and, by the 1950s, had grown into a leading European company with 200 employees. It became a major furniture manufacturer in the 1960s and specialized in design products while launching its contract business in the 1970s. Looking back at Molteni's history, one can see not only its products but also its strategic vision as an Italian company and its continuous transmission of innovative ideas to the world.

This exhibition at the Milan Museum of Modern Art runs until June 30, 2015. After the exhibition, it will be moved to the Molteni company museum gallery at its headquarters in Giussano, where it will be open to the public.

Masterpieces Etched in History and Beyond Contemporary Interpretation

Masterpieces Etched in History and Beyond Contemporary Interpretation

The exhibition at the main MILANO SALONE venue was also a spectacular affair, befitting an 80th-anniversary year. The booth, spanning over 1,200 square meters, showcased numerous new products themed around "contemporary living," while also highlighting masterpieces by architectural and design giants.

At the entrance, an installation resembling a sculpture floating in space welcomes visitors. It is the "SFERA" table, designed by Ron Gilad, whose name means sphere. Its form, which is both musical and seemingly still, dynamic yet controlled, captivates the eye. The harmonious coexistence of opposing elements, as if predetermined, evokes a sense of the fourth dimension.

Occupying a large salon is "REVERSI XL" by Studio Hans Wegner. Compared to the popular "REVERSI '14" from the 2014 Salone, its depth has been extended to 112 cm. The armrests are spacious, and the cushions exhibit the highest level of craftsmanship, lending an air of sophistication and luxury to the space. Its modular design allows for personalization with different materials, catering to the needs of various spaces.

Alongside new products, the exhibition booth also featured masterpieces by Italian design masters. Gio Ponti's "D552.2" low table and "D154.2" armchair, along with Jean Nouvel's "Graduate" bookshelf, were displayed together, creating an elegant space that conveyed Molteni's timeless craftsmanship.

Furthermore, a new rug collection emerged from the ongoing collaboration between Molteni and interior designer Patricia Urquiola. Interpreting the brand's characteristic values with creativity, the Spanish designer has produced three types of hand-woven rugs from natural materials. These rugs harmonize the brand's refined simplicity with elegance.

These new products, along with the enduring craftsmanship that defines Molteni's timeless pieces and its collaborations with designers who have shaped design history, offered a glimpse into the contemporary relevance of Molteni products. The presentation conveyed a steadfast message connecting the past, present, and future.

This Molteni spirit can also be found in surprisingly accessible places. Molteni, actively pursuing international expansion, opened its flagship store in Singapore on January 29th of this year,and its Tokyo flagship store in Minami-Aoyama on March 14th.The Minami-Aoyama flagship store, with interiors designed by Patricia Urquiola, features the "Gio Ponti Screen," a glass partition incorporating Gio Ponti's geometric patterns, and the impressive 7-meter-high "Wooden Wall," inspired by the beautiful view from the circular window of Kōmyō-in Temple in Kyoto. This creates a space with a new charm, reflecting the original Molteni spirit within a Japanese context.

MOLTENI&C TOKYO
Opening Hours | 11:00–19:00
Closed | Wednesdays and Public Holidays
1F, Building B, Almost Blue, 6-4-6 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Tel. 03-3400-3322

http://www.molteni.jp/

• Feature | Salone del Mobile 2015