GIOTTO STOPPINO

Born in Vigevano, Italy, in 1926, Giotto Stoppino studied architecture at Iuav University of Venice and Polytechnic of Milan, graduating in 1951. Whilst studying he was introduced to the Neoliberal design movement of which his mentor Ernesto Nathan Rogers was a pivotal figure. The 1950s Neoliberty movement in Italian design was a reaction against the minimalist ethos of Modernism. The movement sought to create continuity between historical tradition and modern design, reviving Art Nouveau (Stile Liberty) elements like ornamentation and fluidity while embracing industrial production.

At the core of Stoppino’s design philosophy were the pillars of functionality, simplicity, and elegance. He held the belief that design should not only address problems and enhance the quality of life but also encapsulate beauty through maximalism. He emphasized the importance of experimentation, research, and innovation, alongside the social and cultural dimensions of design. Stoppino eloquently stated, “Design is not only a technical and formal problem but also a problem of communication and expression”.

Notable works like his plastic magazine rack, the Equilibrium lamp, and nesting tables clearly show this approach. During the 1960s and 70s Radical Design movement, known for creative objects and art, Stoppino followed a similar path in his designs. His work was purposeful and intentional. While others focused on updating wood and steel, Stoppino boldly explored new ideas with Kartell. After a year of testing molded plastic, he created the Kartell nesting tables—an innovation that changed Italian post-modern design

Between 1953 and 1969 Stoppino, Vittorio Gregotti and Lodovico Meneghetti began the design house Architetti Associati. Their work encompassed a range of areas, from architecture to furniture and design in partnerships with SIM and Arteluce. The Kaleidoscope was a collaborative project by architects Vittorio Gregotti, Lodovico Meneghetti, and Giotto Stoppino in 1963, and was designed as a Room of the Kaleidoscope for the XIII Triennale di Milano in Milan, Italy.