Sovrappensiero: designing ideas, teaching creativity
Behind the creative process of Sovrappensiero Design Studio, the Italian “boutique studio” crafting poetic narratives in product design and education.
Founded in 2008 by Lorenzo De Rosa and Ernesto Iadevaia, the studio thrives on a multidisciplinary approach, balancing commercial collaborations with independent projects and an unwavering commitment to education.
The name “Sovrappensiero” is an Italian word that captures the act of being so immersed in thought that one becomes momentarily detached from the world around them. For Lorenzo and Ernesto, this concept forms the foundation of their design approach.
“Our name encapsulates how we think about design,” explains Lorenzo. “It’s about creating objects that act as bridges, connecting the user to a deeper narrative and sparking further thought.” This poetic vision informs everything they do, from the products they create to the way they engage with their team, clients, and students.
Sovrappensiero Design Studio operates across diverse fields, from product and industrial design to collaborations with the fashion industry. The founders, who are also faculty members at NABA (Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti), balance their commercial projects with independent explorations that delve into themes and concepts unique to the studio.
Collaboration is at the heart of the studio’s process. Each project is spearheaded by a team member, with input and feedback from the rest of the studio at key stages. This iterative approach ensures a diversity of ideas and perspectives, ultimately enriching the final outcome.
While their team operates with a high degree of autonomy, the studio’s boutique scale fosters close mentorship. The founders view their role not just as leaders but also as educators, sharing their expertise and experience to cultivate the next generation of designers. “Recently, someone described us as a ‘boutique studio,’” Ernesto shares. “And it’s a term we embrace, as it reflects the intimacy and care we put into our work.“
Education is also a core part of their identity. Both Lorenzo and Ernesto are deeply invested in teaching, primarily at NABA, where they find inspiration and growth through their interactions with students. “Teaching is one of the most exciting and enriching aspects of our work,” says Ernesto. “The exchange of ideas with students keeps us connected to contemporary issues, especially in the digital realm.”
This constant dialogue with younger generations informs their design practice and reinforces their belief in the importance of sharing knowledge. For the founders, teaching is a two-way street where they learn as much as they impart.
Through their multidisciplinary approach, boutique sensibility, and commitment to teaching, Sovrappensiero continues to craft designs that embody the profound and poetic. It’s a reminder that the best design is not just functional or beautiful but thoughtful—sparking connections that endure beyond the surface.