Exploring nighttime narratives: StudioNotte’s unique approach
StudioNotte blends Italian craftsmanship and Brazilian inspiration, crafting multidisciplinary designs that evoke sensuality, functionality, and cultural convergence through in-depth research and unexpected aesthetics.
In this episode of Behind, we visit StudioNotte, a multidisciplinary design studio co-founded by Luisa Alpeggiani and Camilla Campos, where cultural contrasts become the canvas for innovation. While Italy and Brazil might seem worlds apart, these two nations share a deep, historic bond that the studio leverages to create products that are both functional and aesthetically bold. Their work stands as an exploration of contrasts.
The name “Notte,” Italian for night, speaks volumes about the studio’s design philosophy. Night, in this context, is more than just a time of day; it’s an exploration of pleasure, sensuality, and the freedom that comes with conviviality. This foundational concept defines their work, focusing on experiences that stimulate the senses and evoke a deeper understanding of materiality. For Luisa and Camilla, the evening hours represent a sense of indulgence and personal exploration, qualities that are translated directly into their creations.
StudioNotte thrives on the unique intersection of its cultural perspectives. While Italy’s rich history of craftsmanship speaks to Luisa’s love for artisanal techniques, Camilla brings a fresh outlook, shaped by Brazil’s vibrant and diverse design culture. These differences have only enhanced their creative process, offering fresh viewpoints and collaborative synergy.
This blend of traditions is evident in the studio’s body of work, which spans from table accessories to furniture. All of these pieces are crafted with Italian artisans, ensuring a perfect balance of cultural richness and technical expertise. However, the core of the design process lies in its approach to research. Every project begins with a deep dive into a specific area of interest, carefully exploring its aesthetic and its place in the world. This method allows them to uncover new and unexpected design paths, challenging conventional expectations.
Marte, perhaps the studio’s most “nighttime” design yet, consists of a floor candelabrum and a stainless-steel liquor cabinet. Drawing inspiration from the world of BDSM, Marte invites an atmosphere of personal and shared exploration. The items are not just functional; they are narrative pieces that reflect the darker, more sensual side of their design philosophy. Intricate details, such as piercings and chains, add to the atmosphere, creating an immersive experience for the user. It is here that StudioNotte’s focus on narrative-driven design shines brightest, blending aesthetic exploration with tactile engagement.
Equally integral to their body of work is the design of Lina, a coffee table that transforms into a bookshelf when stacked. Drawing from the 1940s Brazilian architectural movement of Paulista Brutalism, Lina reflects the studio’s ability to merge two distinct cultures and ideologies into a harmonious design. Rather than relying on traditional welding techniques, the studio opted for an elastic cord to connect the metal plates, creating a fluid, flexible structure that is both functional and evocative of the material’s raw beauty.
StudioNotte’s designs never shy away from embracing sensuality, exploration, and cultural influence. Each project tells a unique story, rooted in a deep understanding of materials and their potential to evoke emotion. Their designs are not simply objects; they are part of an ongoing investigation into the human experience—an invitation to explore, touch, and engage with the world around us.
Through a blend of research, personal interpretation, and cultural synthesis, StudioNotte has created a distinctive voice in the world of design. Their works resonate with an underlying philosophy that transcends functionalism, aiming to connect people with objects that tell a story. By carefully crafting products that evoke sensuality, freedom, and the allure of materials, the studio has redefined what it means to design with purpose. As their journey continues, they will undoubtedly continue to challenge conventions and push boundaries, inviting us all to experience their world.
