THE DESK OF AN ASTRONAUT
“That’s one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind.” Neil Armstrong’s line has never really gone out of fashion — but lately it seems to be having another moment. Just a few weeks ago, millions were glued to the Artemis II mission, collectively holding their breath until all four astronauts made it safely back to Earth. Apparently, in times like these, it might just count as comforting entertainment. But – somewhat more hopeful – it`s part of the enduring fascination with space.
In our case we can not deny our fascination with it. The technology, the endless possibilities, the sheer absurd beauty of it all. And, design-led by nature, the irresistible aesthetics of the 1960`s Space Age — plastic furniture, shimmering chrome surfaces, and colours so vibrant they look as if they were invented on another planet altogether.
Space has always been a projection screen for hope and future. But perhaps what attracts us most is something much simpler: for a brief moment, it gives us a sense of shared perspective. Looking up into the dark vastness of space has a curious way of reminding us how tiny, fragile, and improbably beautiful the little ball we happen to live on really is.
ABOUT PAPER – This time it is all about plastic
The Space Age and its design
Called as “Space Age”, the era from around the 1950s – 1970s marked a period of great technological advancement and space exploration. The whole humanity was looking at the Moon, both fascinated and reverent, thinking about the infinite expanses which had to be conquered. Although one spaceship after another was send into the space, it seemed to be easier to dream in small ways translating the new views into design. We see a lot of aerodynamic curves, bold geometry, colorful plastics, shiny surfaces and a healthy dose of optimism about the future.
One of the era`s stars was Joe Colombo. He was an italian designer and architect that created flexible futuristic furniture and systems using bold, bright colors and shapes. In our shop you’ll find his iconic Boby Trolley in various sizes and colours, a celebration of modern design.
Also landing straight from
the 1970s is the “Ring-a-date” perpetual calendar by Giorgio Della Beffa – proof that even checking the date could become a colorful design statement.
