Skip to main content

Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Italian, 1950-2017

Juxtaposing sleek curves with angular, geometric shapes, the sophisticated minimalism of Paolo Piva’s furniture made him one of the most significant mid-century modern designers. Using understated, classic materials such as patent leather and glass, he created furniture that is as timeless as the buildings he designed as an internationally renowned architect. Piva’s armchairs, floor lamps and other furniture pieces were built to withstand changing tastes.

Born in 1950 in Adria in northern Italy, Piva pursued his career in design and architecture at the International University of the Arts in Venice under renowned architect Carlo Scarpa. While a student, he also worked with the Akademie für Angewandte Kunst in Vienna and the Institute of History and Architecture in Venice to create a major exhibition on Viennese architecture during the socialist period. 

Gaining notice during his graduate studies in Rome, Piva established himself as an up-and-coming architect. In 1980, he emerged on the international scene with an acclaimed design for the Kuwait Embassy in Qatar, which led to design commissions for buildings and factories across Western Europe. At the same time, Piva began designing furniture that reflected the clean lines and artful forms of his building style. His most popular piece was the Pyramid coffee table, with inverted pyramids supporting a glass top.

A lifelong academic, Piva began teaching at the Akademie für Angewandte Kunst in 1988, becoming a full professor in 1991. He also collaborated with top brands, including Poliform, de Sede, B&B Italia, Wittmann and Riva 1920, designing center tables, club chairs and other furniture items. He continued his design pursuits throughout his life, traveling to conferences and exhibitions internationally up until his death in 2017.

Piva gained a nomination for the Compasso d’Oro award in 1987 and was one of the architects selected to design the Science and Technology Park in Vienna in 1995. His work has been exhibited at Galerie Ulysses in Vienna and the Architekturgalerie München in Munich, as well as in the VI Mostra internazionale di Architettura della Biennale di Buenos Aires

On 1stDibs, delve into the graceful simplicity and elegant geometry of Paolo Piva’s lighting, tables, seating, and other furniture and collectibles.

to
Height
to
Width
to
Depth
to
2
2
2
2
2
2
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
2
2
52
995
474
344
221
Creator: Paolo Piva
Paolo Piva African Rosewood Cabinet
Paolo Piva African Rosewood Cabinet

Paolo Piva African Rosewood Cabinet

By Fama, Paolo Piva

Located in Conversano, IT

Discover the stunning "Daniel" cabinet from the 1970s, a unique creation by the renowned firm FAMA of Adria, designed by the acclaimed Paolo Piva during the early years of his design...

Category

1970s Italian Other Vintage Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Crystal

Paolo Piva Alanda Cream Chest of Drawers for B&B Italia 1970
Paolo Piva Alanda Cream Chest of Drawers for B&B Italia 1970

Paolo Piva Alanda Cream Chest of Drawers for B&B Italia 1970

By Paolo Piva, B&B Italia

Located in Conversano, IT

Discover a true design masterpiece - the rare "Alanda" dresser by Paolo Piva for B&B Italia. This exclusive chest of drawers showcases a unique postmodern design, featuring four spacious drawers and two slimmer ones at the top, supported by elegant twin feet similar to those found on the sofas and beds from the same series. Crafted with white laminate over a wooden base and accented with black steel details, this piece is a true work of art for design enthusiasts. Currently a one-of-a-kind item on the market, this dresser is extremely rare and collectible, due to its high original production cost. In excellent condition, it shows only minor signs of wear consistent with age, as shown in the photographs. Matching nightstands and a queen-size bed from the same series are available upon request to complete the set. Bring a distinctive touch to your space with this extraordinary Alanda dresser. Product Name: "Alanda" Dresser by Paolo Piva for B&B Italia Designer: Paolo Piva Year of Design: 1970 Style: Postmodern Main Materials: White laminate, wood, black steel Distinctive Design: The "Alanda" dresser is defined by its postmodern silhouette, slender shape, and elegant twin feet. This design is a true icon of its era. Typical Dimensions: 170 x 60 x 68 cm Comfort: Designed with functionality in mind, the "Alanda" dresser offers generous and practical storage space. Typical Use: Ideal for organizing personal belongings with style in a variety of interiors, from living rooms to bedrooms. Design Icon: The "Alanda" dresser is considered a postmodern design icon and a major creation by Paolo Piva for B&B Italia. Versatility: Its sleek design allows it to adapt to different rooms and décor styles, adding elegance wherever placed. Current Condition: A unique piece on today's market, showcasing extreme rarity and collectibility. In excellent condition, with only light signs of wear. Additional Notes: Matching nightstands and a queen-size bed from the same series are available upon request to create a cohesive and refined interior. Paolo Piva (1933-2017) was a renowned Italian architect and designer, celebrated for his influential contributions to industrial design and architecture. Career Beginnings: Born in Adria, Italy, Piva studied architecture at the Academy of Fine Arts in Venice. His design career began in the 1960s and flourished through the 1970s. Iconic Designs: Paolo Piva gained fame for his work in furniture design, particularly for his collaboration with B&B Italia. One of his most iconic designs is the "Alanda" dresser, now considered a symbol of postmodern design. Distinctive Style: His work is characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes, and a strong sense of minimalist aesthetics-elements that helped shape the language of contemporary Italian design. Successful Collaborations: In addition to B&B Italia, Piva worked with several prestigious furniture and design companies, creating pieces that have become modern design classics. Lasting Influence: His approach to balancing aesthetics and functionality continues to influence contemporary design. Piva's works are highly desirable among collectors and design lovers alike. Architectural Work: Beyond furniture, Piva also worked in architecture, designing both residential and commercial buildings around the world. Prestige and Recognition: He received numerous accolades and honors throughout his career, highlighting his importance in the design world. Paolo Piva remains a key figure in Italian design history. His legacy is rich in innovation and elegance, and his creations continue to be internationally recognized and appreciated. B&B Italia, short for B&B Italia S.p.A., is a prestigious Italian furniture manufacturer known for producing high-quality, contemporary design pieces. History and Foundation: Founded in 1966 by Piero Ambrogio Busnelli in Novedrate, Lombardy, B&B Italia was created with the goal of producing cutting-edge designer furniture for the international market. Collaboration with Renowned Designers: B&B Italia is known for its partnerships with some of the world's most acclaimed designers, including Antonio Citterio, Patricia Urquiola, Naoto Fukasawa, Marcel Wanders, and more. These collaborations have resulted in a broad portfolio of iconic pieces. Innovation and Research: The company has always emphasized innovation and research, developing advanced materials and production techniques to craft highly functional, contemporary furniture. Quality and Craftsmanship: Each piece is made with top-quality materials and expert craftsmanship, ensuring durability, comfort, and visual appeal. Diverse Portfolio: B&B Italia offers a wide range of products-from sofas and chairs to beds...

Category

1970s Italian Vintage Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Steel

Related Items
Art Deco Cabinet by Jean Desnos, Polished Rosewood, France, Circa 1940
Art Deco Cabinet by Jean Desnos, Polished Rosewood, France, Circa 1940

Art Deco Cabinet by Jean Desnos, Polished Rosewood, France, Circa 1940

By Jean Desnos

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

A light-brown, vintage Art Deco French cabinet made of handcrafted polished Rosewood, designed by Jean Desnos and produced by Rambaudi-Dantoine in good condition. The cupboard is com...

Category

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Metal, Brass, Bronze

Important Documented Qing Dynasty Chinese Deep Relief Rosewood Cabinet
Important Documented Qing Dynasty Chinese Deep Relief Rosewood Cabinet

Important Documented Qing Dynasty Chinese Deep Relief Rosewood Cabinet

$9,405Sale Price|50% Off

H 69 in W 45.5 in D 16 in

Important Documented Qing Dynasty Chinese Deep Relief Rosewood Cabinet

Located in Los Angeles, CA

An exquisite custom antique 19th century Qing Dynasty heavily carved Chinese rosewood and elm wooden cabinet with double-doors carved set with gilt and deep relief carved wood panels depicting scenes from historical legends and brass handles enclosing a cabinet set with four shelves. The elaborately carved Elmwood panels originally decorated a mid-19th century wedding bed then incorporated into the custom Rosewood frame around the late 1800s-early 1900s. This incredible collectors piece of Chinese history was owned by a European diplomat in Shanghai China during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Documented in a large photobook of their home in Shanghai and their travels, this cabinet was an important piece in their collection and remained with their heirs until our acquisition. Some photos including the one showing this cabinet in their main room is displayed in the photo gallery of this listing. Many pieces owned by the diplomat collector were discarded or sold off over the decades whereas this important cabinet was passed on from generation to generation until we acquired it from a descendant of the diplomat collector. This cabinet would work great as a cupboard, breakfront cabinet, buffet, sideboard, bookcase or bookshelf, vitrine, étagère, china or display cabinet and would work great in an Asian, chinoiserie, Traditional, Transitional, Classical or Art Deco room. Also consider mixing it up with a splash of juxtaposition in a Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian Modern or Danish Modern, Contemporary or Postmodern home...

Category

19th Century Chinese Qing Antique Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Vintage Chest of Drawers, Czechoslovakia, 1970s
Vintage Chest of Drawers, Czechoslovakia, 1970s

Vintage Chest of Drawers, Czechoslovakia, 1970s

$762Sale Price|20% Off

H 26.38 in W 25.99 in D 16.93 in

Vintage Chest of Drawers, Czechoslovakia, 1970s

Located in Wrocław, Poland

This five-drawer chest of drawers comes from Czechoslovakia from around 1970s. The piece is in very good condition - it underwent careful renovation process. It is veneered with elm ...

Category

1970s Czech Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Elm

FAUX BAMBOO CARVED WOOD PORTE ITALIA FIESOLE CHEST OF DRAWERs
FAUX BAMBOO CARVED WOOD PORTE ITALIA FIESOLE CHEST OF DRAWERs

FAUX BAMBOO CARVED WOOD PORTE ITALIA FIESOLE CHEST OF DRAWERs

By Porte Italia

Located in West Sussex, Pulborough

Royal House Antiques Royal House Antiques is delighted to offer for sale this absolutely exquisite Porte Italia Fiesole Faux Bamboo carved hand painted chest of drawers RRP £7,450 ...

Category

20th Century Art Deco Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Faux Bamboo

A Rare Fine French Art Deco Rosewood Collector Cabinet
A Rare Fine French Art Deco Rosewood Collector Cabinet

A Rare Fine French Art Deco Rosewood Collector Cabinet

$6,500

H 45.5 in W 55.25 in D 15.75 in

A Rare Fine French Art Deco Rosewood Collector Cabinet

Located in Long Island City, NY

A fine French Art Deco rosewood collector cabinet with front and lateral doors. Might be used as a bar, TV cabinet, bookcase or petite armoire.

Category

1930s French Art Deco Vintage Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Rosewood

Flötotto chests of drawers, 1970s, Vintage
Flötotto chests of drawers, 1970s, Vintage

Flötotto chests of drawers, 1970s, Vintage

$4,401 / set

H 29.14 in W 94.49 in D 17.72 in

Flötotto chests of drawers, 1970s, Vintage

By Pagholz Flötotto

Located in Neuss, NW

Four-part profile system by Flötotto from the 1970s. The system consists of two containers, each with one door and one shelf, one open container with two shelves and one container wi...

Category

1970s German Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Wood

MId-20th Century Chinese Carved Rosewood Siver Chest Cabinet
MId-20th Century Chinese Carved Rosewood Siver Chest Cabinet

MId-20th Century Chinese Carved Rosewood Siver Chest Cabinet

Located in Germantown, MD

An exceptional Mid-20th Century Chinese Carved Rosewood Siver Chest and Cabinet in great vintage condition. Features a flip top that open to reveal two flatware storage trays all fel...

Category

Mid-20th Century Hong Kong Chinese Export Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Felt, Rosewood

Brutalist Oak Chest of Drawers, 1970s
Brutalist Oak Chest of Drawers, 1970s

Brutalist Oak Chest of Drawers, 1970s

$1,643

H 35.04 in W 48.04 in D 20.48 in

Brutalist Oak Chest of Drawers, 1970s

Located in London, London

Brutalist Oak Chest of Drawers, 1970s A solid and quietly sculptural Brutalist chest of drawers in oak, likely dating from the 1970s. The piece features three wide drawers with sim...

Category

Late 20th Century Belgian Brutalist Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Oak

Paolo Buffa Mahogany & Glass Chest of Drawers, Italy 1940
Paolo Buffa Mahogany & Glass Chest of Drawers, Italy 1940

Paolo Buffa Mahogany & Glass Chest of Drawers, Italy 1940

By Paolo Buffa

Located in New York, NY

A fine and elegant chest of drawers or commode by Paolo Buffa, circa late 1940's. The handsome mahogany case is perfectly proportioned with four horizontal drawers, all with a sligh...

Category

1940s Italian Art Deco Vintage Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Ico Parisi Rosewood Cabinet, Italian Mid-Century Design, Circa 1950s
Ico Parisi Rosewood Cabinet, Italian Mid-Century Design, Circa 1950s

Ico Parisi Rosewood Cabinet, Italian Mid-Century Design, Circa 1950s

$14,000Sale Price|20% Off

H 76 in W 38.5 in D 18 in

Ico Parisi Rosewood Cabinet, Italian Mid-Century Design, Circa 1950s

By Ico Parisi

Located in Queens, NY

Italian 1950s rosewood cabinet with geometric form side supports and a 2 door inlaid upper section with a shelf above 2 lower doors with 4 interior drawers (ICO PARISI).  

Category

1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Rosewood

Antique Cabinet from Italy 1835s
Antique Cabinet from Italy 1835s

Antique Cabinet from Italy 1835s

$5,400

H 64.18 in W 42.92 in D 17.72 in

Antique Cabinet from Italy 1835s

Located in Sammu-shi, Chiba

Antique Italian cabinet. This painted cabinet, dated 1835, is thought to have been made in the Trentino-Alto Adige region of the northern Italian Alps. Crafted from sturdy pine, th...

Category

19th Century Italian Other Antique Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Wood

Quilted Chest of Drawers in Cream Shagreen by R&Y Augousti
Quilted Chest of Drawers in Cream Shagreen by R&Y Augousti

Quilted Chest of Drawers in Cream Shagreen by R&Y Augousti

$9,696 / item

H 35.44 in W 19.69 in D 43.31 in

Quilted Chest of Drawers in Cream Shagreen by R&Y Augousti

By R & Y Augousti

Located in New York, NY

The Paris based label has distinguished themselves since their launch, with their iconic use of shagreen mixed with brass and other exotic materials. All furniture is handcrafted by skilled artisans, ultimately making each piece unique, designed in Paris and produced in the Philippines. The quilted chest of drawers...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Philippine Art Deco Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Previously Available Items
Sideboard "Daniel" by Paolo Piva for FAMA
Sideboard "Daniel" by Paolo Piva for FAMA

Sideboard "Daniel" by Paolo Piva for FAMA

Sold

H 85 in W 162 in D 46 in

Sideboard "Daniel" by Paolo Piva for FAMA

By Paolo Piva, Fama

Located in Conversano, IT

Wonderful sideboard from the "Daniel" series produced in the 1970s by the FAMA company of Adria and conceived by Paolo Piva in the early years of his illustrious career in the world ...

Category

1970s Italian Vintage Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Rosewood

Pair of "Daniel" cabinets by Paolo Piva for FAMA
Pair of "Daniel" cabinets by Paolo Piva for FAMA

Pair of "Daniel" cabinets by Paolo Piva for FAMA

Sold

H 55.91 in W 22.84 in D 8.27 in

Pair of "Daniel" cabinets by Paolo Piva for FAMA

By Paolo Piva, Fama

Located in Conversano, IT

Explore an extraordinary pair of cabinets from the "Daniel series," an iconic 1970s creation made by the renowned FAMA firm in Adria and conceived by Paolo Piva early in his illustri...

Category

1970s Italian Vintage Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Crystal

B&b Italia Athos Credenza, Paolo Piva, 2000's
B&b Italia Athos Credenza, Paolo Piva, 2000's

B&b Italia Athos Credenza, Paolo Piva, 2000's

By B&B Italia, Paolo Piva

Located in Culver City, CA

Available right now i have an Athos credenza by Paolo Piva for B&B Italia. The credenza is a glossy dark grey lacquer with polished stainless legs and handles. The credenza has slid...

Category

Early 2000s Italian Modern Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Stainless Steel

B&B Italia by Paolo Piva White Glossy Athos Wide Sideboard
B&B Italia by Paolo Piva White Glossy Athos Wide Sideboard

B&B Italia by Paolo Piva White Glossy Athos Wide Sideboard

By B&B Italia, Paolo Piva

Located in Rochester, England

Designed by Paolo Piva for B&B Italia, the Athos sideboard perfectly showcases Piva’s architectural style. Featuring a glossy white finish, the sideboard has two compartments, sit...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Paolo Piva Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Metal

Paolo Piva case pieces and storage cabinets for sale on 1stDibs.

Paolo Piva case pieces and storage cabinets are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of wood and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Paolo Piva case pieces and storage cabinets, although black editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original case pieces and storage cabinets by Paolo Piva were created in the modern style in italy during the 1970s. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider case pieces and storage cabinets by Gionathan de Pas & Donato D’Urbino & Paolo Lomazzi, Andrea Branzi, and B&B Italia. Prices for Paolo Piva case pieces and storage cabinets can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $2,937 and can go as high as $6,500, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $5,151.