5 PAOLO CATTELAN everyone’s talking about...
The designer and entrepreneur is leading the charge on luxury craftsmanship
Founded in 1979 by Giorgio and Silvia Cattelan, the high-end contemporary Italian brand Cattelan Italia is world-renowned for its impressive designs and sophisticated finishes. Now at the helm, Paolo Cattelan is a new generation committed to essential pieces imbued with innovative technology. Paolo’s designs have been outstandingly elegant and functional – among these were Smart, an unusual and striking glass-top extendable table with walnut legs designed to adapt to the needs of contemporary homes. Unsurprisingly, it has gone on to be one of the brand’s sell-out pieces.
What pieces do you think work well for modern family life or smaller spaces?
Our focus has always been maximising the use of space in the home. Our collection of iconic Drive tables are extendable and about creating flexibility for busy family lives. And our console tables are really useful – they work as decorative elements in hallways but then can evolve into charming dining tables where you can entertain up to 12 people.
Our latest collection gave rise to the Cocoon family of desks with brushed bronze bases topped in ceramic alabastro. Their small sizes mean they are suited for many rooms of the house, serving as luxurious reading or study corners. The collection also has a chic LED mirror attachment and a desk can become a dressing table.
How do you make your lighting so contemporary?
Our lighting collection is inspired by classic Italian design but employs new LED technology, which brings a real sense of futuristic drama to a room. You could have quite a traditional space that you want to modernise or a small room that you want to add character to and a cleverly designed light is the way to do that. Our Cloud lamp feels almost unreal, like huge moving bubbles floating on the thinnest cords, and Cristal is a modern take on a chandelier with a nickel frame strung with rows of crystal beads lit by LEDS. They are both modern but still retain that Italian charm.
How can we convey that iconic Italian warmth in our own homes?
Combine handmade finishes, like brushed bronzes with warm ceramic tops and match the brightness of transparent glassware with soft leather details and comfortable carpets. Keep colour palettes subdued but it doesn’t have to be dull – create theatrical moments with contemporary chandeliers and furniture with unusual marbling.