MEMPHIS MILANO

Memphis Milano is an Italian design group founded in Milan in 1980, bringing together architects, creators, and designers. Its founder, Et ...tore Sottsass, chose the name Memphis because it refers both to the Tennessee city where Elvis Presley was born and to the capital of ancient Egypt. Memphis Milano introduced a new form of expression through design. The movement gained significant recognition after showcasing 55 pieces, including furniture, lamps, and ceramic objects, at the Arc’74 gallery during the Milan Furniture Fair in 1981. Memphis Milano draws inspiration from the radical design movement of the 1960s. The group explores new ways to express creativity and redefine the relationship between people and objects. Objects should have meaning—they must be functional but also symbolic, poetic, and emotionally resonant. This is the vision of Memphis Milano. Its creations feature balanced forms blending pop culture, high culture, and ironic classicism. These designs are based on "flamboyant" combinations, making Memphis Milano pieces both kitsch and elegant. The brand uses contrasting materials and innovative elements, such as Abet Laminati decorative laminates, designed by the creators themselves, mixed with precious substances like briarwood. Memphis Milano aims to create a platform akin to a workshop or observatory, where critical thinking and design reflections are explored. The group does not focus solely on aesthetics, materials, or industrial production methods. Read more

Memphis seeks to develop a new production strategy centered on niche markets. Rather than targeting the mass market, its new creations are tailored for a select audience. Memphis distinguishes itself through the emotions its objects convey. These objects are not merely functional—they also have a strong emotional impact. The brand modernizes the design world and imbues it with new purposes. Its approach to design fosters optimism, influencing the world and changing perceptions. Years after its founding and the departure of Ettore Sottsass in 1985, Memphis Milano remains an influential and "revolutionary" brand. It continues to shape design aesthetics, culture, and graphic trends. By challenging classical and "strict" design conventions, Memphis has created compelling imagery and told stories through its objects. Its forward-thinking approach has anticipated changes that later impacted society. The entire Memphis Milano collection is available at SILVERA. If you can’t find the product you’re looking for, please contact us via the form. The SILVERA team, with its extensive expertise in residential and commercial furnishings, is ready to listen and assist you with your projects. Contact us to schedule an appointment at our showrooms in Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Cannes, and London.