In recent years, Pucci’s interests have expanded to include furniture design as well. And while always the forward-thinker, he isn’t afraid to draw inspiration from predecessors. This distinguished creator with a flare for austere simplicity is bringing Jens Risom furniture back.
But this is no rehash. “His work is beautiful and relevant,” explains Pucci of mid-century superstar furniture designer Risom.“We have reintroduced the collection that he designed in the 50s.We tweaked it, we used fabrics that are more relative to today’s lifestyle, but the designs reflect the quality, luxury and taste of the 50s.”
“There is beauty in simplicity,” asserts this innovator in the field of design.“I’m not interested in trendy ideas.”
For a verification of his philosophy, look no farther than the bare-bones modernist space Pucci has created at the Pacific Design Center, which first opened its doors March 1st. “We stripped the space and painted the floor, ceiling and walls white,” the designer recounts. “Where some designers may carry 500 pieces in a space this size, we display 150 pieces and let the product speak for itself.”
Art shows are planned every four months at Pucci’s Pacific Design Center showroom; currently showing is Tribute to Noguchi, featuring five Hawaiian artists. Showcases for Pucci’s furniture as well as the art on display, exhibitions promise to complement the decor just as well as a Pucci-designed mannequin enhances the presentation of the clothes it wears.
Image: Figures from Pucci’s Manikin series. Image courtesy Ralph Pucci International.
