Upfront with Backhouse

Michelle Backhouse shares insights on her favourite furniture and lighting pieces from Milan.

1 — ‘Mapuche’ lights by PET Lamp

The ‘Mapuche’ collection is created by women from the Ñocha Malen community in Chile. Artisans use the fibre of the ñocha plant, which is boiled and dried before weaving and shaping. Each PET Lamp is a result of the creative, personal footprint of its artisans, who weave their stories and dreams into each piece they create.

2 — ‘Largo’ sofa by Piero Lissoni for Kartell

‘Largo’ is a reinterpretation of the modular sofa. Designed by architect Piero Lissoni, it represents a new era of development for Kartell. This stylish sofa offers many possible configurations and features a linear design with wide cushions and innovative detail. ‘Largo’ is luxurious, comfortable and sleek.

3 — ‘James’ barcart by Yabu Pushelburg for Stellar Works

“We liked the notion of doing a masculine collection that speaks about craft and precision,” says designer George Yabu. The harmonious mix of materials – such as black metal and walnut with colour and graphic shapes – elegantly combines to produce an understated sleekness.

4 — ‘Kabuki’ light by Ferrucio Laviani for Kartell

Laviani created the ‘Kabuki’ floor lamp in 2016 and this year introduces the table and pendant iterations. A seductive actress with a sensuous and neo-Baroque look, ‘Kabuki’ is available in transparent green, crystal, light blue and in solid white and black.

5 — ‘Slow’ chair by SPACE Copenhagen for Stellar Works

Inspired by the chair they designed for 108 restaurant in Copenhagen, the ‘Slow’ collection is a range of upholstered wooden furniture that explores the beauty of the silhouette. Referencing mid-century Danish design and Japanese aesthetics, the range features elegantly crafted and tapered, narrow legs.