The Elegance of Innovation: Exploring Diego Mattu’s Timeless Design Legacy

In: Decorative & Applied Arts, Furniture Design, Sofa Design
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Sofa set
Sofa set “Malù”, 1960 designed by Diego Mattu. (Bertolami Fine Art)

The Journey of Diego Mattu

Diego Mattu, born in 1946 in Rome, represents the quintessence of Italian design with a prolific career that spans across various facets of applied and decorative arts. Mattu’s educational foundation at the Corso Superiore di Disegno Industriale e Comunicazioni Visive in Rome laid the groundwork for his diverse contributions to the design world. By 1970, Mattu embarked on a path that would see him influencing the realms of industrial design, graphic design, and furniture creation, marking the beginning of Diego Mattu’s significant impact.

In the early stages of his career, Mattu’s role as a research assistant at the Instituto di Psicologia of CNR showcased his interdisciplinary approach, blending design with psychological insights. This period of exploration and innovation set the tone for Mattu’s future endeavors. Working with prestigious names like ICF/De Padova and the design studios of Salaroli Piludu, Mattu honed his skills in creating functional yet aesthetically pleasing designs that bear the mark of Diego Mattu.

The Breadth of Mattu’s Work

Mattu’s versatility is evident in his projects ranging from designing exhibition systems for department stores to creating sophisticated machinery, and from rendering detailed maps and graphics for IASM to developing graphic designs for notable journals such as Rassegna Artistica and Casabella. His consultancy work for Mautren-Mec and his collaborations with companies like Drobeta and Pallucco highlight his ability to adapt and innovate across different sectors of design, all influenced by Diego Mattu’s visionary style.

One of Mattu’s most notable contributions to the design world is his work with modular furniture, particularly the “Malù” modular sofa set designed for 1P in the 1960s. This piece exemplifies the principles of balance, proportion, and flexibility, embodying the spirit of Italian design with its functional elegance and stylish versatility.

Poltrona e pouf mod. Malù, 1969
Poltrona e pouf mod. Malù, 1969

“Malù” – A Testament to Italian Design

The “Malù” modular sofa set stands as a testament to Mattu’s innovative approach to furniture design. Crafted in the 1960s, this piece reflects the era’s fascination with modular systems, offering a customizable solution to seating that caters to the evolving needs of modern living spaces. Its design is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a piece that adapts to the user, blending functionality with the artistry of Italian design, a defining characteristic of Diego Mattu’s works.

This sofa set, often celebrated for its adaptability, showcases the principle of unity and variety, allowing for endless configurations that can fit any space and meet various preferences. The use of plastics in its construction was a forward-thinking choice, emphasizing durability and ease of maintenance, qualities that make “Malù” a beloved choice for both residential and commercial settings.

Legacy and Influence

Diego Mattu’s contributions extend beyond his designs; his involvement with the ADI (Associazione per il Disegno Industriale) and his role in designing the signage for the Compasso d’Oro award events highlight his commitment to promoting design excellence. Mattu’s work embodies the essence of Italian design, characterized by a harmonious blend of form, function, and innovation.

Diego Mattu’s legacy as an Italian designer is marked by his versatile talent and innovative contributions to the field of design. The “Malù” modular sofa set serves as a shining example of Mattu’s ability to merge practicality with elegance, offering a piece that is as adaptable as it is beautiful. As we reflect on the influences and achievements of Diego Mattu, we are reminded of the power of design to transform spaces and enhance our daily lives, a true testament to the influence of Diego Mattu.

Sources

Bertolami Fine Art – Casa d’Aste. (n.d.). Diego Mattu: Sofa set “Malù” (1960) – Auction Post war design. With a special focus on Italian style. Retrieved from https://www.bertolamifineart.com/uk/auction-0265/sofa-set-malu-101705

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MaxAI.me. (n.d.). Italian Mid Century Modern Modular Sofa By Diego Mattu for P1 1960s – Lumini Collections. https://luminicollections.com/products/italian-mid-century-modern-modular-sofa-by-diego-mattu-for-p1-1960s

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