In Studioutte's cinematic waiting room

Milan-based design company Studioutte presented its second collection at Milan Design Week 2024 with a cinematic presentation at its headquarters in the Nolo district. The exhibition entitled “Sala D'Attesa” took the form of an imaginary waiting room. On the ground floor of a conventional residential building, visitors crossed a courtyard filled with plants and bicycles, only to be led into a dimly lit room that transported them to a fascinating chamber where time stood still. Further north, Studioutte presented its first collection with Vietnamese furniture brand Studio Eight at Rho Fiera.

Sala D'Attesa by Studioutte

“Sala D'Attesa” was the second presentation by Guglielmo Giagnotti and Patrizio Gola, who founded Studioutte in 2020 after starting their careers at different companies. Giagnotti spent several years in Antwerp working for the famous Belgian minimalist Vincent Van Duysen, while Gola cut his teeth at Milan's Dimorestudio, designing typically lavish hospitality, residential and retail projects.

The scenography was an effective blend of these two sensibilities. Made primarily from industrial materials (typically used for the construction of drywall), the metal frames were attached to the wall and upholstered with matt, satin Dedar fabric in oxblood red. Vertical tube lighting was arranged in a rhythmic pattern around the room, casting a yellowish glow on the reflective metal floor and glossy lacquered furniture. In addition to the furniture in the collection, there were framed artworks and a tiered ceramic vessel filled with fresh blooms, creating an atmosphere that was equal parts intimate and futuristic.

The collection, on the other hand, was a mix of Art Deco influences and strict geometric configurations. The “Linz” chair, for example, is characterized by a reduced, square shape and is made of glossy black lacquered plywood. Its silhouette is cleverly reflected in the “Biga” armchair. However, where the thin profile of the “Linz” gives way to negative space, the “Biga” consists of solid painted blocks sucupira Wood. The “Ant” lounge chair continues a similar language; Resting on four blocky eucalyptus legs, a U-shaped backrest is upholstered in a white Dedar linen blend and appears to float above the low seat. The collection also includes the aluminum table “Timpano”, which has a pyramid base and a thin, square table top.

Studioutte also made its debut at Salone del Mobile this year, collaborating with Vietnamese furniture brand District Eight. In addition to designing its booth at Fiera to resemble a sensually decorated home in shades of gray, cream and black, the studio created a collection of beautifully crafted wooden furniture. The “Limen” collection includes a coffee table, a console and a bedside table that form a dialogue between the traditional codes of Vietnamese woodworking and the Italian-influenced style of Studioutte.