MINIMALISSIMO EDITED
This newsletter is supported by aprile, the hanging chair
To design something really well, you have to get it. You have to really grok what it’s all about. It takes a passionate commitment to really thoroughly understand something, chew it up, not just quickly swallow it. Most people don’t take the time to do that.
– Steve Jobs
What's happening?
12 years since we lost the visionary Steve Jobs, I can't help but reflect a little on his impact on the design industry and how much he and his team changed the world with their products over the past couple, nay, few decades. Obviously innovation has softened in recent years at Apple, but it's remarkable to think how much Steve changed the tech industry at the turn of the century, from the iMac G4, to the iPod, to the iPhone. We know all too well the good, the bad, and the beautiful the tech giant has produced over the years. All heavily influenced by design principles instilled by Steve and of course, Jony. The dedication to craft and simplicity is clear to see and that's something I've learned to greatly appreciate over the years, and look to instil in my own work. Whether or not you are or were an Apple user, there's no doubt Steve's visionary concepts have touched your life in one way or another. We're also left in wonder at what could have been, but one thing we can say is that what has gone before under the leadership of Steve can be truly considered wonderful design.
In other news, I recently did an interview with Readymag, a no-code website building platform, to discuss the power of minimalist web design as well as some of its drawbacks. I also explain some of the principles that guide my work. Give it a read and if you have an opinion, shoot me an email.
– Carl
Features
PLANE TABLES
As previewed during the recent Salone del Mobile in Milan and the New Zealand Pavilion in San Francisco, furniture brand Resident has released the minimal Plane Tables collection by Jamie McLellan. The Plane Tables, available in rectangle and round versions, are a striking addition to Resident's existing collection. They captivate with their pure design, seemingly defying gravity as hefty timber slabs balance effortlessly.
JPS GALLERY + WORKSHOP
Renowned architect Deza Setién has unveiled the design of the JPS Gallery headquarters in Barcelona, nestled within the vibrant industrial setting of the Poble Nou district. The design ethos is all about simplicity and clarity. The space is meticulously crafted with a uniform approach, making it easy for visitors to navigate.
UNIT-4 WIRELESS+
AIAIAI, the Danish audio design company, has introduced an exciting addition to its product lineup: the UNIT-4 Wireless+ studio monitor. These innovative speakers, featuring W+ Link technology, are the world's first wireless studio monitors. The UNIT-4s features include ultra-low latency wireless audio and over 20 hours of battery playback time. Remarkably lightweight at just 2.5kg, they are also environmentally conscious, constructed from 100% recycled plastics from post-consumer sources.
CLIFF CAFÉ + TOWER HOUSE
Perched on the rugged cliffs of China's Jiming Island, the Cliff Café and Tower House, a creation by Trace Architecture Office (TAO), blends seamlessly with the island's dramatic landscape. This project consists of two key elements: the Cliff Café, a horizontal structure embedded in the natural cliff and projecting out over the coastline, and the 'Tower House,' a slender vertical residence. TAO's design aims to integrate this harsh terrain with minimalist concrete, giving the impression of emerging from the rocks.
FORMS OF MARIA PERGAY
Paris-based designer Maria Pergay is known for her innovative use of stainless steel—a passion that began in the 1960s and has continued into her eighties. Upon a commission to work with steel, Pergay began to create her now iconic minimalist stainless steel furniture, with her first collection. We take a look at some of her more pared back minimal works.
ATELIER FOR A PHOTOGRAPHER
In Aubervilliers' craft district, Geley Architecture has created a bespoke atelier for photographers. This multifunctional space, comprising storage and indoor-outdoor photography areas, maximises the available plot and height within regulatory limits. The building, resembling a black box, opens up through five generous windows, flooding the interior with natural light. This connection bridges the gap between the interior and the vibrant surroundings.
Supply spotlight
minimal product design made to own (and made by us):
M–SELECTION: ARCHITECTURE
Minimalism is less about colour or material and more about the intention of the design. Architecture is as varied as the designers, locations, and inhabitants. Minimalissimo Selection is a visual exploration of built environments within the spectrum of minimalism. This book will take you through an assortment of impeccable projects from outside-in, showcasing many styles, sizes, materials, and details.
Where next?
Discovery
other things for you to read, explore, and maybe even admire:
LD_PROXY-MONO: a simple and systematic monospaced typeface
iPhone 15 mockups: frames in Figma
Minimalism: closet essential made to last
Cosmo electric guitar: streamlined to its essence
Tralucid by Laurids Gallée
This monthly edition of the Minimalissimo newsletter was supported by aprile, the hanging chair
inspired by spring days and designed by Matteo Modica, aprile is a simple suspended chair that oozes elegance—a floating seat, shaped after spring petals, swinging gently. designed and handcrafted in Italy with artisanal love.
whether you're looking for visual inspiration or design insights, you can visit our gallery to discover the very best of minimalism in art and design.
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