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Aldo Deli Studio presented concept-led works across two contexts at Salone del Mobile.Milano 2025

'The red thread connecting all the products I’ve designed so far is the idea behind it'

Aldo Deli Studio is an independent architecture and product design practice based in Italy, working across Europe with clients in Spain, Denmark, and the Netherlands. In an exclusive interview with InteriorDaily.com, founder and architect Aldo Deli discussed his studio's approach to material logic, exhibition strategy, and the structural challenges of producing for the contract market.

© Aldo Deli
Aldo Deli, the designer, at their stand at the Salone del Mobile.Milano.

'I started to design the first products for the market right after graduation,' he explains. 'I knew I wanted to become independent one day… you really get to know the market, how the mechanism behind the scenes works, the relationship with clients, and how an idea evolves from sketch to market launch.'

Two formats, one concept: design as narrative
The studio's presentation at Salone del Mobile reflected its ongoing focus on concept-led collections that explore structural clarity and product storytelling. 'Whether it's a small detail or in the kind of aesthetics it communicates, the red thread connecting all the products I've designed so far is the idea behind the product,' Aldo says.

For Ondarreta, Aldo launched the Olivia collection, which includes a dining chair, lounge model, stools, and an outdoor extension. 'The main concept revolves around the detail of the rear leg, which is y-shaped, and that's why it's called Olivia, from the olive branch of an olive tree.' According to Aldo, the modular elements in Olivia enable full disassembly, while the structure remains minimal in both form and weight.

At Salone Satellite, Aldo exhibited Evelyn: an armchair five years in development. It was shown on a raised platform, with early prototypes mounted on the wall and assembly components exposed. 'I wanted to emphasise the simplicity of the geometry. On one side of the stand, a large blue fabric showed the cut-out drawings of the seating. On the other, I disassembled the first prototype to show how compact the packaging is, and that the user can assemble it without tools.'

© Aldo Deli

Approaching sustainable design in an uneven market
On the question of sustainability, Aldo is pragmatic. While he advocates for mono-material approaches when possible, he acknowledges the production constraints that come with mid-sized European manufacturers. 'Sometimes it's really hard to innovate towards sustainability, because they don't have the mindset or resources to do that kind of switch. So, sometimes you have to adapt.'

Wherever possible, his design methodology seeks to optimise recyclability and end-of-life disassembly. 'I try to keep all the elements separated,' Aldo explains. 'So when the product reaches the end of life, hopefully as long as possible, it will be easier to separate materials and eventually recycle them.'

Market expansion and long-term positioning
While the studio is currently active in Spain, the Netherlands, and Denmark, Aldo is exploring new relationships in Italy and Eastern Europe. 'This year I would really like to approach some new furniture companies from Italy. Even though, probably because they are some of the best, it's harder to create a strong connection with them.' He also sees opportunity in emerging Eastern European markets: 'I would really love to work with some companies from Poland or Croatia… there are very interesting waves over there.'

As for Salone, Aldo is undecided about returning to Satellite, but confirms his presence at 3 Days of Design in Copenhagen this June. 'I already have the title in mind, "three chairs", still showing prototypes of three chairs. I need one more to go. The goal is always to find the right producer for them.'

From prototype to production
Reflecting on the business outcomes of Salone, Aldo highlights the value of parallel exposure. 'Having these two events going on at the same time, and at the same place, was very important. I could redirect people to one of those two stands. Companies want to see you, as we say in Italian, con le mani in pasta, hands in the dough. It's a big advantage if they already see that you're working with other companies.'

Working more, saying less
Asked if he had any final thoughts for the European design community, Aldo turned to a quote often attributed to Mies van der Rohe: build, don't talk. 'I know it's a pure contradiction, since it's an interview,' he says. 'But I think there is a hidden message, the joy of being a creator more than being a consumer. And I think that's vital in today's world.'

© Aldo Deli

More information:
Aldo Deli Studio
+39 3204437777
info@aldodelistudio.com
www.aldodelistudio.com
Netherlands