FRAGILE Gallery by Atelier Mendini and Studiopepe // Milan, Italy.

Alessandro and Francesco Mendini of Atelier Mendini, in collaboration with Studiopepe, recently opened the doors of their new two-storey Milanese gallery Fragile. Forget neutral spaces with toned-down style, and brace yourself for loads of personality and character – the pieces on show are linked in an unconventional way, becoming the main part of the exhibition as a developer of style and ideas. An innovative and active design hub, the showroom aims to produce a whole retail concept characterised by irony and strong personality that matches Fragile’s precious collection of historic design pieces.

Vibrant colours adorn the walls – think pistachio greens and bubble gum pinks, while unusual patterns and materials blend to create a unique canvas for the studio’s varied collection of Italian mid-century pieces, an unconventional mix of bold contemporary designs and vintage jewellery. A white lattice metal staircase runs through the centre, bringing out the oversized jigsaw pattern of the brightly coloured floor, showcasing extremely rare pieces designed by Max Ingrand, Gio Ponti, Franco Albini, BBPR and Gino Sarfatti.

But do not be fooled – despite the lighthearted surroundings, Fragile is a gallery brimming with some very serious design. A bit like Yellowtrace, no? Yeah, we wish. On that note, you better put this place on your must see list during the upcoming Milan Design Week. See you there? Hooray!

Via San Damiano 2 (corner of Corso Monforte), Milan

[Images courtesy of Fragile & Studiopepe.]