Piero Lissoni’s Legacy Collection for ALPI makes a grand show at Fuorisalone ‘22

In what marks a debut for wood manufacturer ALPI at Salone del Mobile.Milano, the brand presents the Legacy collection, curated by ALPI art director Piero Lissoni. The collection effectively illustrates the brand’s unique capacity to reinvent wood in new formats and styles through rigorous research and experimentation. The new collection was designed with the aim of creating unique decorative surfaces using reconstituted wood, such that their texture exalts the natural identity of several lost species that are no longer in circulation. “Teak, mahogany, ebony and rosewood are all lost species of wood that are indisputably in need of protection. So how can we use them in today’s world? We imagined another way to interpret them, another way to make them because we do indeed have to make them so as not to destroy them. We have to invent them in another way. And this is where innovation lies. We are using traditional products and introducing innovation to make them sustainable,” says Piero Lissoni about the inspiration behind this project.

The Legacy collection, curated by Lissoni, is aimed at reproducing the appearance and materiality of a selection of threatened wood species that are not readily available or are illegal to use. Using fascinating manufacturing techniques, the replication of the material essence of each wood type is done, such that the resultant designs are unique, sustainable and uncanny replicas of their unattainable natural counterparts. 

Since sustainability has always been a guiding principle for ALPI, the brand ensures that they use wood from correctly managed forests. A certification from the Forest Stewardship Council guarantees this by ensuring that the wood used by the brand is acquired from plants that were responsibly harvested in accordance with the social, economic and environmental standards. The brand reproduces the appearance of several different types of woods that are not harvested anymore due to the threat of extinction. In doing so, ALPI contributes toward keeping the natural heritage alive, while also offering a sustainable product that is visually appealing. When asked about the ‘lost’ species of wood with which the brand now works, Lissoni explains: “We’re talking about high-quality tropical woods that have been used in carpentry ever since the 17th century, but this usage has now threatened their survival… lost woods that ALPI is now able to reproduce without harming the species”.

Ebony, Honduran mahogany, teak and rosewood: are noble woods that have not only found usage in Art deco furniture and modern design but also continue to serve as an inspiration for both designers and decorators today. However, due to their overuse and consequent shortage, it is difficult to acquire them today. By duplicating the tonality and original veining of these wood surfaces, ALPI gives them a new life.

ALPI’s ‘Legacy Collection’ will remain on display in the S.Project section of the Salone fair during Milan Design Week 2022.

STIR takes you on a Milanese sojourn! Experience Salone del Mobile and all the design districts - 5vie, Brera, Fuorisalone, Isola, Zona Tortona, and Durini - with us. STIR’s coverage of Milan Design Week 2022, Meanwhile in Milan showcases the best exhibits, moods, studios, events, and folks to look out for. We are also excited to announce our very own STIR press booth at Salone del Mobile - Hall 5/7 S.14, Fiera Milano RHO.