Industrial-style flatware inspired by gatherings of people around good food and good conversation.
Around the world and across cultures, people gather around to share meals and engage in conversations with loved ones, new acquaintances or even strangers. Intimate and universal at the same time, the act of sharing food connects people regardless of age, nationality and custom. The Conversational Objects collection from Italian brand Alessi captures these ideas perfectly. The range is special not only because it has a creative, ingenious design, but also because it is the creation of none other than Virgil Abloh. One of the most influential fashion designers in the world, Virgil Abloh (1980-2021) left an indelible mark on contemporary design and fashion.
A Renaissance man with talents that spanned different disciplines, he was an artist, fashion designer, engineer, architect, industrial designer, musician, and philanthropist. He founded his own fashion label, Off-White, and was also Louis Vuitton’s artistic director from 2018 to 2021. Following collaborations with brands like Nike and Ikea, Virgil Abloh partnered with world-famous Italian company Alessi to create a flatware collection. Named Conversational Objects, the range takes inspiration from Abloh’s love of food and tradition as well as the idea that meals provide the perfect setting for meaningful communication at the dining table. Additionally, the designer re-imagined standard flatware as design tools.
Elegantly minimalist utensils inspired by garage and workshop tools.
The collection references classic workshop utensils and a garage-inspired style in an elegant form. Made from stainless steel, the flatware comprises a spoon, fork, knife and dessert spoon, all finished with a matte surface. The industrial style adds a fun, bold accent to the dining table while also encouraging conversation and conviviality. The centerpiece of the collection, the 16-piece cutlery set with an included holder invites diners to interact with the design. The flatware features circular openings at the top of the handles, which provide an easy solution to stack them on the cutlery holder and then place it on the center of the dining table. This way, every guest can take the utensils they need from the central support. Like the flatware, the holder has an industrial look, reminding of a threaded bolt. Plus, the user has to assemble the set, keeping in line with the industrial theme.
The collection also includes a 4-piece set for minimalists and a bolt-like candlestick. Crafted from eco-friendly, long-lasting 18/10 and 18/8 stainless steel, the Conversational Objects collection is a must-have for design lovers and fans of Virgil Abloh’s work. The durability of the material and the high level of craftsmanship also make the flatware great as an heirloom. Alessi has launched the range at the 2023 edition of Milan Design Week, which took place between April 17-23. Discover the entire collection in the Gessato Design Store. Photography © Alessi.
