As the name alludes, Stories of Italy is a Milan-based brand that is dedicated to the development and production of functional pieces made using traditional Italian craft techniques. Marrying craftsmanship, frequently modern aesthetics and references to the historical and cultural heritage of Italy, the brand — led by Dario Buratto — has recently expanded its repertoire to include lighting design projects alongside its signature bold glass collections of table and glassware.
The result is a blend of design, craft and art, bound by high quality materials that are synonymous with Italy, such as Murano glass and Carrara marble, and created by dedicated artisans with a common goal of preserving Italian heritage.
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Stories of Italy: Celebrating Italian Heritage through Design
Designer duo Matilde Antonacci and Dario Buratto set up Milan based Stories of Italy in 2016. The couple met back in 2000 in Florence and graduated from the Polimoda Institute before moving to Milan where they worked with international fashion brands, such as Helmut Lang, Acne Studio, and Dsquared. Antonacci continued to work as a fashion designer, while Buratto took up the study and teaching of yoga and travelled in India and across Southeast Asia. As a result Buratto realised the importance of heritage in their artisanship; “we are not interested in what the design represents in itself but rather on the individual people and artists that work every day on their own unique Italian stories.” As a result Stories of Italy was formed as a new endeavour that would merge design, craftsmanship and art. Collaborations include Vivienne Westwood, Four Seasons Hotel and Gallery S. Bensimon.
The inspiration for Stories of Italy designs comes from the great archaeological, historical and cultural heritage of Italy. Objects and symbols that have a common past are reinterpreted in a contemporary way, with a clean aesthetic and fresh colours. Although many objects are made from the brand’s two main materials, Murano glass and Carrara marble, the designs are for “everyday” use due to their tools of communication as well as their beauty. The essence of iconic Italian traditions is captured by a blend of design, craft and art. Stories of Italy plays with these mediums, experimenting with the materials in conjunction with the skills of the chosen artist. The relationship that Stories of Italy has with its artists is indispensable and works to distinguish Italy as one of the most unique countries in the world. By giving objects a place in modernity, the brand ensures that Italian heritage and traditions are kept alive.
Stories of Italy offers a custom-made service for hotels, restaurants, architects, interiors and private individuals. The brand assists using vision and expertise, from the idea to the final product. As well as keeping the concept of the client at the forefront, Stories of Italy is proud to share its incredible Italian heritage and so with this approach, each object possesses a particular aura, enriched by traditional values and symbolism.
Iconic Products
'Macchia Su Macchia' Vase
The 'Macchia Su Macchia' vase is taken from a new collection inspired by macchia, the mesmeric swirling patterns of pigment that appear on the surface of many Murano glass pieces. On this vase the macchia application has been broken down, reconstructed, and applied multiple times, the result is an opaque smattering of colours and layers of hue that give the vase a surprising texture.
'Dattero' Set of Two Glasses
A nod to the Middle East and a combination of Rome and Venice. The 'Dattero' collection looks to the Middle Eastern provinces of the Roman Empire and uses the revered date as a source of inspiration, as seen in each glass's textured oval form. Mouth blown by artisans on Murano, the two emerald-coloured glasses present a contemporary silhouette, despite a concept and design rooted in history.
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