Joe Colombo

Joe Colombo (1930–1971) was a pioneering Italian designer who revolutionized mid-century design with his vision of intelligent technology and integrated living environments. He began in fine art, studying at the Brera Academy in Milan and joining the avant-garde Movimento Nucleare. In 1956, Colombo designed a condominium and took over his family’s electric cable business, experimenting with new technologies. By 1961, he opened his interior design studio, creating adaptable environments. His iconic Universale chair was the first injection-moulded chair made entirely from plastic, and he developed practical units like the Mini-kitchen and Total Furnishing Unit for MoMA.