Sideboard Scuderia in Walnut by Carlo Scarpa for Bernini, Italy, 1977

It is sometimes said that great architects never graduated. According to the Italian architectural critic Luigi Prestinenza Puglisi; Mies van der Rohe, Wright and Le Corbusier are among those who have never been able to boast about their piece of paper. Carlo Scarpa was one of them but is regarded as true master. He studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Venice, was creative director of the Venini glass factory and later also became director of Gavina. A versatile man who has touched all facets of creativity.

Design
This sideboard is an iconic object that perfectly reflects the design philosophy of Carlo Scarpa. He did not believe in order or structure within design. As one of his last projects for Bernini, we see that this sideboard has a strong appearance, especially due to the use of the walnut wood that shows a dramatic drawing here. He has deconstructed the classic concept of a sleek sideboard by a number of things. First of all by placing two round cylinders on the front corners. These cylinders are also split and the middle part of the cylinders are in a different direction. The left and right part are connected by two wooden parts and a brushed brass plate with the Bernini logo that is subtly placed in the middle. This intermediate space can then also serve as storage space.

The eight hinges also act as a detail that is not immediately noticeable at first glance. They are also positioned in a prominent position. Just a few inches of the cylinder corner parts. and showcase Scarpa’s aversion for order and structure once again.  When we open the doors, we see three storage compartments on the left. On the right side there is ample storage space due to the two compartments and above that are three drawers. It is remarkable that, unlike on the doors, the veneer is applied vertically.

Condition
The condition of this sideboard is very good with minimal traces of use. Small scratches and scrapes are part of that.”