Andrea Branzi

ANDREA BRANZI (Florence, 1938-Milan, 2023) for Zanotta.
Niccola armchair, 1992.
Steel structure. White leather and leather straps.
Measurements: 103 x 56 x 81 cm.

The uniqueness of the Niccola armchair undoubtedly lies in the light and volatile aspect of its structure. Its apparently cantilevered seat - supported by a slat at the lower front part - is supported laterally by the tubular steel structure, while the backrest, with its disparate geometric shapes, is inclined in kitsch style. A markedly curved structure crowns the seat in the manner of a crest.

Andrea Branzi, architect and designer, graduated in Florence in 1967, lives and works in Milan. From 1964 to 1974 he was a partner of Archizoom Associati, protagonists of the Florentine radical movement, and one of the most respected voices of the radical architecture movement. A prominent member of the Alchimia studio, founded in 1976, from 1981 he participated in the experience of the Memphis group. In 1982, Branzi opened his own studio to dedicate himself to architecture, urban planning, interior design and industrial design. In 1983 he was one of the founders of the Domus Academy in Milan, the first international school specializing in industrial design, design management and fashion. Branzi has collaborated with several Italian architectural magazines, such as Interni, Domus, Casabella and MODO. In 1994 he received the ADI Compasso d'Oro Lifetime Achievement Award.