Luisa Parisi — Publications- tmgb decorative arts & design, llc

Ico Parisi was an Italian architect and designer whose work came to characterize Italian, Mid-century modern design. Born in Palermo in 1916, Parisi studied construction, graduating in 1934. In 1947 he married Luisa Alani, a former student of Gio Ponti. The couple moved to Switzerland and Parisi studied architecture from 1949-1952. Together, Luisa and Ico ran their own design studio, their philosophy of design being that of the Renaissance artist, an interest in everything and avoiding labels of architect, designer or painter. A successful contemporary furniture exhibit in 1945 in Como, as well as the studio’s all encompassing approach to design meant that by the early 1950s, Ico was seen as one of Italy’s most important furniture designers. Parisi furniture uses soft woods, curves and bright upholstery to display the pared back aesthetic that Italian mid-century modern design is famous for. Always collaborating with other designers and artists such as Gio Ponti, Mario Radice and Fausto Melotti among many others, Parisi worked with manufacturers such as Cassina and Cappelini to produce his work. The beauty of Parisi’s work lies in its ability to work in any interior and his work is eagerly sought by collectors of Italian design.