“Design has its own world in which to act. The risk is that by emerging from these practical and theoretical boundaries, marvellous settings get created which, however, are short-lived. Be careful of useless things.”
Angelo Mangiarotti (Milan, 1921-2011) was a truly original creator within the vast arena of international architecture. An Italian master of style, he was able to export his ideas and philosophies to the rest of the world. His career began in the early 1950s and his creations became points of reference for the world of architecture and engineering, as well as for design and contemporary art.
The collaboration between Mangiarotti and Snaidero began in the 1960s. There was an immediate personal understanding between the architect and the company's founder, Rino Snaidero, based on reciprocal admiration. The relationship began with the design and manufacturing of pioneering luxury kitchens. Mangiarotti’s “Cruscotto” and “Sistema” modern cabinetry lines were both distinguished by innovative stylistic and functional features. As proof of that, “Cruscotto” was accepted into the permanent collection of the “MoMa” in New York.
The relationship between Snaidero and Mangiarotti reached its peak, however, when the architect was given the job of designing the new building to house Snaidero's offices and central headquarters in Majano (Udine). Mangiarotti made the building's facade out of fiberglass and secured it to a reinforced concrete structure, which in turn was supported by four columns. The outer "skin" of the building - punctured by protruding elliptical windows – was the result of a patient study into the idea of outer shells and their use in architecture.
In 1977, following the damage caused by an earthquake the year before, Mangiarotti also completed a beautiful cover made from a steel structure partly suspended over the porticos and partly resting on pillars. Once again this design testified to his ability - supported by technique and analytical thinking - to work with the most diverse materials, remaining within the scope of their natural logic.
