The Memphis Group - Color, Pattern and Objects

Memphis Group Bookshelf: Andrea Branzi

Olivetti's Valentine Typewriter
circa 1969

The Memphis Movement celebrates the best of Italian design with vibrant colors and pattern.  Founded by Italian designer Ettore Sottsass, the design and architecture group created Post Modern furniture, fabrics, ceramics, glass and metal objects from 1981-1987. The group intended to develop a new creative design approach offering bright, colorful, shocking pieces meant to contrast with blacks and browns found in modern design.

Sottsass was already know for his 1969 design of Olivetti's Valentine Typewriter.  The design was marveled for its portability and the user's ability to use it anywhere.  Plus it was manufactured in eye-catching red.
They drew inspiration from Art Deco and Pop Art and embraced color.  Some might say their designs were superficial but that was far from the truth.  The Memphis Group continues to stand the test of time and it still inspires today's designers.

Here are some great examples of how we celebrate this design movement today!

NeoCon 2010: Interface FLOR

Memphis Group Retrospective:

Paintings by: Paul Jenkins

Memphis Group Chairs

Wallpaper: Sarah Hvass

London Desk Lamp