Young Milan-based designer Mirei Monticelli presented at her booth in Salone Satellite earlier this year as part of the curated section within Salone del Mobile.Milano.
Mirei’s new collection “Ocean Myths” takes inspiration from the sea – as the name implies – and it uses the semi-transparent Banaca fabric for which she is known.
The centrepiece of the collection is “Riva” (the Italian word for “shore”). This gracefully flowing hanging lamp exploits the intrinsic properties of the Banaca fabric in order to resemble a wave crashing onto the shore. A delicate colouring of the fabric – done with a studied gradient – strengthens the impression of the last moments of life of the wave – exactly when water, air and sand are almost not distinguishable from each other.
“Anemone” lamp is inspired by the creatures living on the coral reefs under the sea surface and is a versatile table lamp in terms of size, height, and colours.
“Aphrodite” is a table lamp that is the direct product of an experimentation with materials. When asked about the reason of this experimentation, Mirei answered: “I always wanted to make a product with which experiment different techniques and materials. Playing with the materials that I could easily have in my studio, I obtained this material mix that really satisfied me both in terms of functionality and aesthetic. The fact that this material can be easily coloured is another plus to support my design”.
The base is made in concrete, with the addition of Banaca fibres. This mix of materials is what gives its robustness and stiffness needed for its functionality. Aphrodite reminds us of a shell containing a pearl, that is blossoming to the world – like the Venus of Botticelli.
In addition to lamps, “Isole” tables were showcased at Salone Satellite. These tables are made from crushed shells recycled from the food industry. The Isole tables come in a set of three nesting tables, each one with a different colour – blue, green and red.
For more information visit studiomirei.com/
