Alessi
Founded in 1921 in Omegna, Piedmont, by Giovanni Alessi, the Italian brand Alessi has its roots in the region’s long-standing tradition of cold metalworking. From the very beginning, Alessi has embraced a philosophy of excellence that has positioned it as a key figure among Italy’s leading design factories.
Throughout its history, the brand has partnered with more than 300 renowned designers and architects, resulting in thousands of creations – many of which have become celebrated icons of contemporary design.
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Alessi – Bold visionary of Italian design
Alessi is an Italian design company that can be considered more of a design laboratory than just a manufacturer.
Blending industrial production with a deep commitment to artistic exploration, Alessi continues to operate as a “research laboratory on Applied Arts”, always open to new creative and cultural directions.
Alessi’s journey to global fame
Alessi’s story began in 1921 when Giovanni Alessi founded the metal workshop Fratelli Alessi Omegna in Omegna, Italy. Initially, the company primarily produced metal household items but gradually expanded to a more diverse product range.
In the 1950s, Giovanni Alessi’s son Carlo took over the company, at the time known as ALFRA (ALessi FRAtelli). His brother Ettore led the design department, resulting in famous wire baskets and fruit bowls, among many other designs.
In the 1970s, Giovanni Alessi's grandson Alberto Alessi joined the company and started new projects with designers like Ettore Sottsass, Richard Sapper and Achille Castiglioni. Sapper's design of the 9090 espresso maker earned Alessi its first Compasso d’Oro award.
Over 100 years of Italian design
In the 21st century, Alessi has continued to collaborate with international architects and designers, including Patricia Urquiola, Michele De Lucchi and the design studio BIG-GAME.
Alessi is still led by the descendants of Giovanni Alessi, who maintain the high quality and innovative design of Alessi products. Alessi's products are exhibited in major museums worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
In 2021, Alessi celebrated its 100th anniversary with the release of the Alessi 100 Values Collection.
Ethical and radical
Alessi encapsulates its design philosophy with the words ”Ethical & Radical”. The vision, shaped by Alessandro Mendini, includes two key elements: ethical design focusing on simplicity and modesty, and a radical approach aimed at bold, expressive and decorative forms.
Alessi’s products are renowned for combining top-tier design and artistic vision with everyday objects – this can be seen in their iconic kitchen utensils and coffee and tea makers, which serve as both works of art and practical items. The majority of Alessi’s products are still made in the company’s own factory in Italy.
In 2020, Alessi officially became a Benefit Corporation – a status that reflects its commitment to generating positive impact beyond profit, guided by values of responsibility, sustainability and transparency. This evolution marked the culmination of a journey that began in 2017, when Alessi became the first Italian design factory to earn B Corporation certification.
Explore the playful world of Alessi
Discover Alessi's distinctive design and read more about the brand’s latest collections in our Design Stories online magazine.
Some popular Alessi products:
