“Now & Then” Italian Walnut and Maple Desk by Ivan Paradisi, 21st Century

Well-known for adorning his handmade pieces with colorful inlays, designer Ivan Paradisi creates coffee tables, buffets, console tables and other furnishings that, with their unusual forms and clever mixing of materials, stand out in any space.

Born in Tuscany, Italy, in 1971, Paradisi initially tried to make his way as a musician and singer. He developed an enthusiasm for furniture design when he found work restoring valuable pieces of art. This endeavor led him to pursue furniture design. 

Paradisi revels in the minor imperfections that can only exist in handmade works. He prefers to use rare materials in his designs, and any given structure might begin with rich hardwoods such as rosewood and ebony. From there, Paradisi fearlessly incorporates unexpected materials like plastic and steel into the dressers, mirrors and decorative objects he crafts in his studio. 

Infusing his love of music into his creations, Paradisi draws inspiration from improvisational musical genres such as jazz and fusion in his workshop, building sculptural maple desks embellished with steel inlays or statement case pieces such as an olive wood storage cabinet with interiors that are lined in leather.

Paradisi continues to create bespoke designs today and has an atelier in Turin. He has exhibited at the Venice Biennale and the Italian Pavillon in Turin. 

On 1stDibs, browse a selection of Ivan Paradisi tables, seating and storage pieces.