Collaborative Conversation #6: Giulio Cappellini

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background in the furniture branch?

I am an architect and designer. I graduated from the Politecnico di Milano University. During my studies I had the privilege of doing an internship at Gio’ Ponti’s Studio and this represented for me a great opportunity where I learned to take care of every single aspect of a project. I follow the Art Direction of the company Cappellini as well as of other companies and I organize several design exhibitions worldwide. I am also Art Director and Ambassador of the Istituto Marangoni Design School in Milan.

When did you come in contact with BOLON for the first time?

I knew Bolon 10 years ago and I was immediately attracted to the material and its expressive possibilities. I started using it for Cappellini flagship stores and as a result for other public spaces such as the Istituto Marangoni Design School. 

How has your involvement been in this collaboration?

The collaboration with Bolon is extraordinary. Bolon is a company made up by people with great passion for their work and they are always ready to solve any problems that may occur. My relationship with Bolon is not only a business connection but it is above all a human relationship based on friendship and mutual esteem.

What is your experience with BOLON? How do you see BOLON as a company? What furniture type have you chosen to experiment with?

In order to experiment the evolution of the Bolon material, we have used the “Anemos” table and poufs designed by Antonio Facco, a young Italian designer, for Cappellini.   

How has it been to work with the material? Any difficulties? Any advantages?

We did several tests with the material after choosing the texture which seemed the most appropriate for the product. At the beginning it was not easy, but we managed to find a proper solution by using two different supports for the table top and the seats.

What are your thoughts about the final piece – now that BOLON materials have been used? How has it changed the piece?

The result is very satisfying and it has radically changed the image of the “Anemos” table and poufs. It is a different and contemporary image.

What opportunities do you see BOLON materials could have in your production?

This is a prototype and the first step towards a potential production and we will surely experiment with Bolon to cover other Cappellini products. We hope we can start an interesting collaboration in the design field as it was for architecture.