Ico Parisi

ICO PARISI (Palermo 1916 - Como, 1996) for MIM, Rome.
Urio bookcase with four modules, 1957.
Rosewood.
Includes shelves, desk, drawer unit and containers with sliding doors.
In excellent condition, with some marks on the metal elements.
Measurements: 223 x 393 x 55 cm.

Urio modular bookcase, designed in 1957 by Ico Parisi for MIM Roma (Mobili Italiani Moderni). Made of rosewood with metal structure, a combination that provides warmth, strength and a sophisticated air of mid-century Italian design.

The system is made up of four modules that integrate different functional elements: open shelves of different sizes, a folding desk module, a three-drawer chest with contrasting horizontal handles, containers with sliding doors, one of them with a glass front, which allow the display or storage of objects. The rosewood back panels serve as support for the various modules, supported by a system of metal uprights with adjustable legs that convey visual lightness.

The design reflects the innovative spirit of the 1950s in Italy, where furniture was conceived as flexible, modular systems capable of adapting to the various uses of modern living. The Urio bookcase synthesizes elegance, practicality and a strong architectural sense.

The architect-designer Domenico "Ico" Parisi trained in the construction industry in Como between 1931 and 1935, and in 1936 he began working in the office of the rationalist architect Giuseppe Terragni in Como, which marked the beginning of his professional career, which was also briefly linked to the world of cinema in the late 1930s. Returning to his initial vocation, design, Parisi was one of the founding members of two architectural groups: Alta Quota and Gruppo Como. In 1947 he married fellow designer Luisa Aiani, a former student of Gio Ponti, also a member of Alta Quota, and the two founded their studio La Ruota in Como in April 1948. Between 1949 and 1952, Parisi studied architecture with Alberto Sartoris at the Athenaeum Institute in Lausanne (Switzerland). In 1952 he became a member of the Milan Art Club, and in 1956 of the Association of Industrial Design (ADI). Parisi designed many interiors, furniture (mainly wood and metal), glass, jewelry and architectural projects, both alone and with Luisa. His studio was a meeting point for collaborations between established artists and emerging designers. His clients included: Singer & Sons, Altamira , M.I.M. , Longhi , and Cassina. Ico, in collaboration with architects Silvio Longhi and Luigi Antonietti, designed the Living Room pavilion for the 10th Milan Triennale. The couple's collaboration with Cassina was very fruitful, resulting in many famous designs, such as the Model 691 (1955) and Model 839 chairs, both nominated for the Compasso d'Oro in 1955.