In this curated collection, Managing Editor Joseph Sgambati III invites us into his personal world of design appreciation. He shares five distinct works that resonate with his architectural background and keen eye for aesthetics. From the intricate beauty of ceramic vessels that blur the lines between art and function, to the enduring elegance of natural stone transformed into statement furniture, each piece reflects a thoughtful balance of craftsmanship and innovative vision. His selections also reveal a newfound passion for bold colors in everyday spaces, alongside a fascinating exploration of typography's influence on lighting design. This compilation culminates in an architectural monograph that celebrates the interplay of form, cast, and frame, offering a holistic view of design that is both experimental and profoundly engaging.
Contemporary Design Highlights: A Deep Dive into Joseph Sgambati III's Selections
Our journey begins with the collaborative brilliance of Devin Wilde's exclusive ceramic collection for Design Within Reach (DWR), launched in the early days of February. Here, the realms of art and architecture beautifully intertwine. Wilde, a formally trained architect, presents pieces like the versatile 'Vessel No. IX,' which serves dually as a bowl and a platter, alongside revitalized classic forms adorned with fresh finishes such as Cobalt, Garnet, Midnight, and Metallic Satin. The glossy Pearl finish of 'Vessel No. IV' and the Art Deco-inspired 'Vessel No. III' are particularly striking, masterfully playing with light and shadow. These pieces are not merely functional but stand as sculptural statements, embodying a material romance that is truly captivating.
Next, we delve into the world of MANIFESTE EDITION's stools, plinths, and pedestals. Discovered at Maison&Objet in January, this French interior design brand champions the inherent beauty of dimensional stones such as marble, onyx, and travertine. Their craft transforms raw elements into refined furnishings, showcasing the unique veining and rich textures of polished stone. The 'PIO' and 'JIA' stools, featuring plush velvet upholstery, offer an additional layer of tactile luxury, while the 'IDA' side table elegantly contrasts sleek, brushed stainless steel with natural stone, creating a harmonious blend of materials and forms.
The Sérif Floor Lamp by Marina Declarey captures the essence of typography in illumination. Influenced by a lifelong affinity for typefaces, Joseph finds this bespoke decorative fixture to be a stylistic masterpiece. It artfully tempers the gestural qualities of serifs—those intricate elements in letterforms—with a minimalist light element, creating a piece that is both visually literary and functionally elegant.
The realm of interior color is dramatically re-envisioned by SIMAS, with their bold and colorful bathroom fixtures. Inspired by a recent visit to Boutique Design New York (BDNY), Joseph embraces a daring commitment to vibrant hues. This Italy-based manufacturer of fine ceramics showcases sanitaryware drenched in rich pigments, presented in both matte and high-gloss finishes. This collection challenges conventional bathroom aesthetics, advocating for a joyful splash of color in intimate spaces.
Finally, we explore "Young Projects: Figure, Cast, Frame" by Bryan Young, with book design by Luke Bulman. This monograph, published between 2015 and 2020, beautifully documents the pioneering work of the Manhattan-based architecture and design firm, Young Projects. It presents a captivating catalog of experimental yet exquisite projects that explore the concept of surfaces as mediating layers of identity—personal, political, and cultural. The book satiates a hunger for decadent spatial legibility, showcasing how architecture, like fashion and the human body, acts as a 'skin' that communicates who we are and how we are perceived.
This journey through contemporary design underscores the profound impact of thoughtful creation, where every detail, from the choice of material to the interplay of color and light, contributes to a richer sensory experience. It's an invitation to appreciate the innovative spirit that shapes our environments, inspiring us to infuse our own spaces with meaning and beauty.