The Alessi Italian Factory of Design based in Crusinallo, Italy is renowned for producing high-quality and visually appealing design objects and home accessories that have become sought-after collectors' items for design afficionados worldwide. Alessi today is primarily famous for its broad and innovative vision in assembling together all the great minds in the different fields of design, art, architecture to reveal new home accessory collections twice each year in the Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter.

Studio Brillantine x Alessi

Studio Brillantine has been a stockist for Alessi since 1997 offering the Alessi Design vision to our already loyal Alessi customers and as well as introducing the brand to new customers. Previous designs from many years ago still bring the same reactions of interest, surprise, joy and fascination to those who have never seen Alessi products.

Consider that in the Alessi historical catalogue with all the numerous collaborations with designers, architects and artists each have contributed their talents to enrich the world of Alessi products. Within each project and product -- they reveal and present the essence and same process/thinking/talents from their inspired conceptual ideas now transformed within the final Alessi product.

Be it a small spoon designed by a famous architectural firm: the same process/thinking from an architectural building goes into a small tea spoon and in other words, the same creative spark and idea is also revealed in a much smaller and personal vision as a tea spoon or other tabletop item. With this in mind, the Alessi collector is able to experience the genius and creativity of the "great minds" right within their own homes--even with an everyday experience such as preparing dinner or having an enjoyable tea break.

This core value of the Alessi Design Factory is what sets it apart from any other company as it provides this very special experience and "link" with the great innovators and minds of our time--bringing their world of ideas right into your everyday life experience.

Out of Production Alessi Design Objects

As Studio Brillantine has been showcasing and retailing Alessi products in our design shop for over 25 years we have highlights from our collected Alessi Out of Production designs:

1] 1997: Enzo Mari / Pago Pago / Vase / Alessi Re-edition from Danese Milano 1969

2] 1992: Philippe Starck / Liberte / Box and Letter, Pen Box

3] 1993: Stefano Giovannoni / Nutty the Cracker / Nutcracker

4] 1998: Jasper Morrison / Sim and Saladim / Salad Bowl and Servers

5] 2007: Massimo Giacon / Hal Fredo / Porcelain Figurine

6] 1996: Stefano Giovannoni / Twergi Collection / Emmenthal and Milk Serving-Cheese Boards

7] 1957: Luigi Massoni & Carlo Mazzeri / 870-50 / Cocktail Shaker [matte finish]

Collecting Alessi

Any current Alessi product available now may eventually and at some point is put "Out of Production" so choosing the Alessi product that resonates and calls to you is part of what makes an Alessi collector. 

What one selects from the Alessi catalogue to be a part of ones home definitely will provide a shift in how one perceives "everyday objects" and the question of "...how could one not ever have this before ?" arises. The range of design typologies from the Alessi Catalogue is vast and so are the varying approaches to the designs so the purchasing choices are many.

Alessi: famous for its many ventures into varying design persepectives -- experimental, colourful, fun as well as minimal, classic and timeless.

Alessi Generations: Growing up with Alessi

Customers who had Alessi products from their households while growing up continue to be Alessi customers as objects they recognize that so fascinated them become newly discovered and are purchased once again to be a part of their new households-- the longevity and uniqueness continues over time. A prime example is the Pino Funnel and wall decoration by Stefano Giovannoni and Miriam Mirri designed in 1998 which is designated as an Alessi Icon.

Introducing Alessi: Alessi Icons for Daily Use

These are our suggested items from the current Alessi catalogue for those keen on starting their own collection and include some of the "Alessi Icons":

1] Pino Funnel-Decoration / Stefano Giovannoni & Miriam Mirri 1998

2] Big Love / Ice Cream-Dessert Spoon and Bowl / Miriam Mirri 2002

3] Dr. Skud / Fly Swatter + Sculpture / Philippe Starck 1998

4] Gino Zucchino / Sugar Castor / Guido Venturini 1993

5] Moka 6 / Espresso Maker / David Chipperfield 2017

6] Forma / Cheese Grater with Stand / Zaha Hadid Architects 2017

7] ES16, ES17 Twergi Jar Collection / Multi-purpose Jar / Ettore Sottsass 1994, Re-edition 2021

8]  Venusia Jewellery Ring Collection / Elena Salmistraro 2022

9] Ship Shape / Butter-Jam Container with Spreader / Stefano Giovannoni & Harry 1998

10] Anna G. / Corkscrew / Alessandro Mendini 1994

11] Juicy Salif / Lemon Juicer - Sculpture / Philippe Starck 1990

There is something for every design enthusiast in the Alessi catalogue from the colourful and joyous colourful objects all the way to the highly-collectible museum pieces and limited edition design objects.

Alberto Alessi transforms Alessi into the Factory of Design with Designers, Architects and Artists

In 1970 Alberto Alessi, the founders grandson joined Alessi and it was his vision which eventually transformed Alessi into the "Factory of Design". Over the many years, Alessi in collaboration with projects designed by hundreds of designers, architects and artists all have enriched the world of tabletop and housewares design.

A few notable--as well as new and younger designers--who have designs in the Alessi catalogue: Aldo Rossi, Michael Graves, Ettore Sottsass, Richard Sapper, Achille Castiglioni, Alessandro Mendini, Philippe Starck, Marcel Wanders, Miriam Mirri, Jean Nouvel, Stefano Giovannoni, Naoto Fukasawa, Enzo Mari, Philippe Starck, Salvador Dali, Massimo Giacon, Guido Venturini, David Chipperfield, Future Systems, Zaha Hadid, Studio Job, Michele de Lucchi, SANAA, Andrea Branzi, Jasper Morrison, Valerio Somella, Elena Salmistraro, Giulio Iacchetti and the list goes on.

Alberto Alessi [far left] in 1989 with the Italian Design Maestros [l-r]: Achille Castiglioni, Enzo Mari, Aldo Rossi, Alessandro Mendini [photo by courtesy © Gianni Berengo Gardin]

Unique and Innovative Designs: Alessi collaborates with talented designers, architects and artists from around the world, resulting in products that push the boundaries of creativity and innovation. The company is known for its distinctive and often whimsical designs that stand out in terms of aesthetics and functionality. These unique designs make Alessi products stand out in the market and attract collectors who appreciate the artistry and originality. 

In addition, numerous Alessi products have won international design awards and are also in Permanent Collections of the following museums worldwide -- to name just a few:

The Museum of Modern Art [MoMA], New York / National Museum of Decorative Arts, Trondheim / Centre Georges Pompidou, Paris / Museum für Angewandte Kunst, Vienna / Thessaloniki Design Museum, Thessaloniki / Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York / Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia / Museum für Gestaltung, Zurich / Smithsonian Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum, New York / La Triennale di Milano, Milan / Stedelijk Museum, Amsterdam / Museum of Iran University of Science & Technology, Tehran 

Attention to Detail and Craftsmanship: Alessi places great emphasis on the quality of craftsmanship and attention to detail in the production process. Each product is carefully crafted using high-quality materials and techniques, ensuring that collectors receive a piece that is not only visually appealing but also durable and well-made. This commitment to quality enhances the value of Alessi products as collectors' items.

Marcel Wanders: Circus Collection [Good Design Award USA 2017]

Limited Editions, Museum and Historical Re-Editions, and Special Collaborations: Alessi periodically releases limited editions or collaborates with museums, renowned artists and designers to create special collections. These limited-edition items often feature unique finishes, rare materials, or exclusive designs, making them highly desirable among collectors. The combination of exclusivity and artistic collaboration adds a sense of rarity and prestige to these pieces. 

Philippe Starck: Juicy Salif [lemon squeezer and sculpture] 1990. It is included in permanent collections of the major museums worldwide and has been released in several limited editions.

Juicy Salif Gold Limited Edition Sculpture 2000, Juicy Salif Original 1990, Juicy Salif Bronze Sculpture Limited Edition 2021 to celebrate Alessi's 100th Year Anniversary [1921-2021].

Massimo Giacon: Porcelain Holiday Collectible Figurine Series / Tiny Little Sheeps, Amir and Camelus, Angels Band Set, Presepe Set 2007-2017

Functionality: Timeless designs often prioritize functionality and practicality. When a product performs its intended purpose efficiently and effectively, it remains relevant regardless of changing trends or technological advancements. Alessi designs that focus on timeless functionality can be appreciated by collectors across generations.

Enzo Mari: Farfalla [nutcracker] 1994, produced 2021 [Good Design Award USA 2022]

Michael Graves: 9093 Kettle 1985, 9093 Kettle 1L version 2023

Minimalism and Simplicity: Designs that embrace simplicity and minimalism tend to age well. By avoiding excessive ornamentation and relying on clean lines and essential elements, these designs can remain visually appealing and harmonious over time. Alessi has produced several iconic products that embody this principle, which contributes to their timelessness. 

Jasper Morrison: Pepe Le Moko [salt & pepper mill] 1998, Glass Family 2015

Emotional Connection and Human-Centered Design: Designs that evoke an emotional response or resonate with human experiences are more likely to endure the test of time. Alessi designs often incorporate elements that appeal to our emotions or cultural references, creating a connection that transcends the particular era they were created in. These designs tap into universal themes and emotions, making them timeless while still reflecting the spirit of their time. 

Stefano Giovannoni: Magic Bunny [toothpick holder, 1998], Pino 1998, Merdolino [limited edition toilet brush] 2021      

The Alessi Factory of Design creates great collectors' items due to their unique and innovative designs, attention to detail, limited editions, and collaborations. Alessi products strike a balance between functionality, simplicity, and emotional connection, allowing them to transcend specific time periods and appeal to collectors across generations and the fact that it is available only in selected retail environments.

A curated Alessi product selection stocked by Studio Brillantine is available: Alessi x Studio Brillantine and any product from the Alessi catalogue is also available by special order. Happy Collecting Alessi !!!

[Images by courtesy Alessi, André Huber and Studio Brillantine]

Studio Brillantine is a design shop in Toronto, Canada and carries an extensive selection of gifts, international design objects from all over the world.