The Life and Work of Gae Aulenti
Gae Aulenti (1927-2012) was an Italian architect and designer known for her modernist and postmodernist aesthetic, as well as her ability to blend form and function in her works. Born in Palazzolo dello Stella, Italy, Aulenti studied architecture at the Milan Polytechnic and began her career working as a magazine editor, furniture designer, and architect.
Aulenti’s work ranges from industrial design to architecture, and she is perhaps best known for her renovation projects, including the Musée d’Orsay in Paris and the Palazzo Grassi in Venice. Aulenti received numerous awards throughout her career, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum in New York City in 1991.
The Pileo Chair
The Pileo Chair, designed by Aulenti in 1968, is an iconic piece of furniture that embodies her design philosophy of combining function with striking aesthetics. The Pileo Chair is a bold and modern design that showcases Aulenti’s skill in playing with form, texture, and color to create a unique piece of furniture.
The Pileo Chair is made of a metal frame that supports a large, circular seat cushion that gives the impression of a suspended sculpture. The seat conforms to the natural curvature of the body, and the backrest is designed similarly, ensuring maximum comfort for the sitter. The chair is also highly customizable, with a range of colors and fabrics available for the cushion and upholstery.
The Legacy of the Pileo Chair
The Pileo Chair was met with great acclaim when it was first released, with critics praising its sleek and modern design. Today, the Pileo Chair is still highly sought after by designers and collectors alike, and it is considered a classic of modern design. The chair has been incorporated into numerous design exhibitions, including the “Italy Made in Art: 1960-2000” exhibition held at the Guggenheim Museum in New York City in 2002.
The Pileo Chair has also inspired many other designers, and echoes of its design can be seen in numerous contemporary works. The chair represents Aulenti’s innovation and creativity and continues to influence the design world to this day.
The Pileo Chair is a testament to Gae Aulenti’s skill as a designer and her ability to blend form and function in her works. The chair’s bold and modern design has made it an iconic piece of furniture, and it continues to inspire designers and attract collectors all around the world. The Pileo Chair is a lasting legacy that embodies Aulenti’s innovative spirit and is a testament to the enduring appeal of modern design.