Franco Albini

Born in 1905 near Milan, Franco Albini is an Italian architect, urban planner and furniture designer. He began his activity in 1930s and completed it in 1960s. He studied architecture at the Politecnico in Milan and became an apprentice to master architect and designer Gio Ponti. He played an important role in the development of the Italian rationalist movement before World War II. During the post-war period, Albini continued furniture design and architecture, and tried as much as possible to achieve purity of expression, through modularity and affordable materials. Although he tries as much as possible to reduce formalities through his work, Albini retains the warmth and charm inherent in his respect for context and tradition. During his lifetime, Albini worked with several mid-century manufacturers, such as Cassini, Arflex, Poggi, Arteluce, Brionvega, Knoll, some of whose creations are still in production to this day. He has received numerous awards, including three Compasso d'Oro Awards.