Memphis Unveils Rare Designs Salone del Mobile Milano 2025

MILAN — Memphis, the Italian design brand that was endeared by David Bowie, Karl Lagerfeld and many other high-profile figures, is staging a comeback.

During Salone del Mobile.Milano, which will run from April 8 to 13, the company will unveil a selection of never-produced pieces designed by Ettore Sottsass and select creatives from his famous ’80s design group.

Among the key pieces is the Venezia, a testament of Sottsass’ love for his longtime companion Barbara Radice. Recognized by its “monuments in squares” motif and classic Sottsass Rete and Spugnato patterns, the model was a permanent fixture in the house the two shared not long after meeting at the Venice Biennale in 1976. The Hyatt, a side table recalling the structure of a classical column and which was designed in 1984, will be unveiled at the Memphis space at Salone del Mobile.Milano in the exact same finish selected by Sottsass for his home.

Other rare pieces include the Dorian and Ioninan, inspired by a 1985 table mirror design by Italian designer Michele De Lucchi, as well as the Sheraton, a sculptural mirror by Luigi Serafini, reminiscent of a surreal portal, and Century, a minimalist chaise longue by Andrea Branzi designed in 1982.

This year marks a pivotal moment as Memphis’ parent company, Italian Radical Design group, in December welcomed a new chief executive officer, Riccardo Pigati, to spearhead its marquee brands.

The Barolo-based Italian Radical Design group also owns design forward-brands like Gufram and Meritalia.

Pigati was formerly the CEO of Gebrüder Thonet Vienna, which was founded by Michael Thonet in Austria in 1850 and is currently based in Turin, Italy.  

Charley Vezza, 39, continues to serve as CEO of the Italian Radical Design group, spearheading the creative and artistic strategy and collaborations for Gufram, Memphis and Meritalia while Pigati will serve as CEO of each of the three brands.

Memphis was acquired by the Italian Radical Design group in 2022. Vezza first showcased the brand’s “total living” potential at 2024’s Salone del Mobile, its first showcase there since the acquisition.

For Vezza, the archives remain integral to his strategy, which is aimed at attracting new demographics and generations and further internationalizing the brand.

“This exchange of ideas bridges past and present, ensuring that the brand’s creative legacy remains dynamic and relevant. By bringing to life designs that were never added to the catalogue before, Memphis continues to evolve while staying true to its origins,” he said.