Image source: Knoll — Albini Desk
© Knoll and the respective rights holders. Quoted to accompany INTEBEE's independent design commentary and research.
Albini Desk
Franco Albini's glass-topped pedestal desk on a chrome steel X-frame with a floating drawer pedestal
1219 × 699 × 660 mm
Approx. $7,800 (reference price; varies by region and retailer)
Official product information
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Description
Overview
The Albini Desk (model 80D) combines a clear tempered glass top, a chrome-finished square steel tube frame and a two-drawer wood pedestal that appears to float below the glass. Knoll gives different years for its design (1928 on the design page, 1938 on the price list, 1958 on the cut sheet).
Construction
- Frame and legs: square steel tube, polished chrome finish
- Top: 1/2 in clear tempered glass
- Pedestal drawer in ebonized oak or white lacquer, mounted on the right side
Specifications
- W 48 x D 26 x H 27.5 in (1219 x 660 x 699 mm)
- Pedestal: W 16.5 x D 26 x H 8.25 in
Story
Clarity of form
Knoll describes the desk as a demonstration of Albini's rationalist design philosophy and minimalist aesthetic, with an appeal that comes from simplicity of form and the celebration of material.
Image source: Knoll — Albini Desk · © Knoll and the respective rights holders. Quoted to accompany INTEBEE's independent design commentary and research. · View official product page ↗ · Image use & copyright policy
Triangles and rectangles
The shop says the geometric design is an arrangement of triangles and rectangles balanced in scale and proportion, and that the chromed steel and clear glass reflect and permit uninterrupted views of nearby objects.
More by Franco Albini
Cicognino Table
Franco Albini's three-legged "little stork" table, 1953, with one leg rising into a handle.
Cavalletto Table
Franco Albini's 1950 trestle table: ash or walnut frame braced by two burnished brass rods.
Infinito Bookcase
Free-standing double-sided bookcase by Franco Albini, 1956-57, on floor-to-ceiling uprights.
Luisa Chair
Compasso d'Oro armchair by Franco Albini on a solid ash or walnut frame with trestle sides; Cassina.