Ghidini launches first collection of brass homeware and furniture
Milan 2016: Italian company Ghidini Giuseppe Bosco has unveiled its debut range of brass furniture and products, designed by Studio Job, the Campana brothers, Richard Hutten and more.
The Ghidini 1961 collection – which takes its name from the year the company was founded – features 40 pieces, from larger objects like chairs and tables to smaller homeware items including napkin holders and vases.
Brazilian duo the Campana brothers have created a geometrically shaped mirror with six hinged panels, which can be unfolded like petals. The piece is backlit, and according to the company can double as a lamp to create a "kaleidoscope of golden tones and reflections".
Belgium-based Studio Job has designed a champagne bucket in the shape of an oversized brass thimble, as well as a candle holder that resembles a giant push pin, and an engraved vase designed to resemble the base of a bullet.
Dutch designer Richard Hutten has also contributed several pieces to the collection, including a set of square tables, a butterfly-covered coat stand, and a champagne cooler with the same O-shaped handles that he used in his Dombo mug.
Other designers that have collaborated with Ghidini include Nika Zupanc, who has created cherry-shaped jewellery boxes, and Andrea Branzi, who has designed a backlit console and hanging shelves.
Ghidini had previously specialised in machined and die-cast lighting components, fittings and handles. It decided to launch the Ghidini 1961 collection after meeting with Italian designer Stefano Giavannoni – who recently launched online furniture brand Qeeboo.
Giavannoni has also created a brass version of his Qeeboo rabbit seat for Ghidini, which appears as a doorstopper and in smaller form as salt and pepper shakers.
"My family has produced brass for three generations, and now the idea of using our commitment and knowledge to the service of some of the most renowned designers in Italy and abroad and, through them, be a part of people's homes, makes us feel proud and reaffirm our life-long passion," said company president Roberto Ghidini.
The collection was presented at Spazio Rossana Orlandi during this year's Milan design week, which took place from 12 to 17 April 2016. Also on show at the gallery was a range of new furniture and accessories by Piet Hein Eek.