By Artemide, Vico Magistretti
Located in Conversano, IT
Stunning and iconic "Arcadia 80" coffee table, like other pieces designed by Magistretti and produced during these years by Artemide as part of the resin furniture series, introduces a new aesthetic strictly connected to production technology. Produced in two sizes, Arcadia is made of GRP, glassfiber reinforced plastic, a thermosetting plastic material consisting of a dense weave of fiberglass impregnated with polyester resins. Arcadia belongs to the objects designed by Magistretti based on the "resistance by form" system, a method of conferring rigidity to plastic materials through the geometric configuration imposed on them-a concept already explored in other projects, from the Selene chair to the Chimera lamp, the Stadio table, and others. The performance of GRP, particularly its high resistance to impact, bending, scratching, and high temperatures, along with its stability against weather agents, makes it suitable for outdoor use as well. Minor signs of time are present.
Bibliography: Maria Teresa Feraboli, Vico Magistretti, series I maestri del Design, Il Sole 24 Ore editions, Milan 2011, model referenced and reproduced on page 50; Artemide S.p.A., 1976 catalog, page 130.
Product Name: "Arcadia 80" Coffee Table by Vico Magistretti for Artemide
Designer: Vico Magistretti
Design Year: 1970s
Style: Innovative design based on an aesthetic tied to production technology
Main Materials: GRP (Glassfiber Reinforced Plastic), a thermosetting plastic composed of fiberglass impregnated with polyester resin
Distinctive Design: "Resistance by form" system that gives structural integrity to plastics through geometric configuration. Simple and elegant lines, typical of Magistretti's design, following a similar conceptual approach to the Selene chair and Chimera lamp
Dimensions: Height 40 cm - Width 80 cm - Length 80 cm
Comfort: Perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality
Typical Use: Ideal for both indoor and outdoor environments due to GRP's resistance to impact, scratches, bending, high temperatures, and atmospheric agents
Design Icon: A distinctive example of 1970s Italian design, with an innovative aesthetic that harnesses the potential of new materials
Versatility: Suitable for domestic or public spaces, both indoors and outdoors
Current Condition: Recognized design icon, featured in historic collections and catalogs
Additional Notes: Cited in Maria Teresa Feraboli's bibliography Vico Magistretti, series I maestri del Design, Il Sole 24 Ore editions, Milan 2011, page 50. Also featured in Artemide S.p.A.'s 1976 catalog, page 130.
Vico Magistretti (1920-2006) was one of the most influential Italian designers and architects of the 20th century, known for his contribution to industrial design and modern architecture. Born in Milan and graduated from the Politecnico di Milano in 1945, he developed a style based on simplicity, elegance, and functionality, reducing objects to their essential forms without sacrificing beauty or comfort. Throughout his career, he collaborated with companies like Cassina, Artemide, and Oluce, creating iconic pieces such as the Atollo lamp, the Carimate chair, and the Maralunga sofa, which became symbols of Italian design. He received numerous accolades, including several Compasso d'Oro awards, and his works are exhibited in prestigious museums such as the MoMA in New York. His legacy lies in his ability to blend innovation and craftsmanship, influencing generations of designers through both his work and his teaching.
Artemide is a renowned Italian company specializing in the production of designer lighting. Founded in 1959 by Ernesto Gismondi and Sergio Mazza, it is headquartered in Pregnana Milanese near Milan, and has become a global reference brand in the industry. From the outset, Artemide distinguished itself by producing high-quality lighting systems that combine aesthetics, technological innovation, and functionality, collaborating with internationally renowned designers such as Michele De Lucchi, Richard Sapper, and Karim Rashid. Among its most iconic products are the Tizio lamp by Richard Sapper, the Tolomeo series by Michele De Lucchi and Giancarlo Fassina, and the Tolomeo Mega...
Category
1970s Italian Space Age Vintage Artemide Tables