Great design seamlessly captures and transcends the spirit of its time. Paola Piva’s iconic Alanda coffee table is a classic example of this rare feat, sought out for its iconic shape and chameleon-like versatility. Piva’s design, in which a single sheath of glass sits on top of a geometric black framework of hollow inverted pyramids, is a simple yet striking reflection of its era and an audacious expression of modern elegance. And although the table encapsulates the conspicuous architectural language of the 1980s, it has since become a stalwart of the interior design world, favoured by the world’s leading contemporary designers. To mark Piva’s passing earlier this year, the table has recently been re-released to pay homage to the great architect and designer.
In partnership with B&B Italia, we take a look at four of our favourite interiors from across the world that demonstrate why the Alanda coffee table has endured the test of time.
It’s no secret that we’re drawn to the work of Louise Liljencrantz. Her work blends all the pared-back refinement of Scandinavian design with a strong sense of the individual to achieve effortless elegance. No wonder, then, that her own Stockholm apartment is defined by furniture pieces including the Alanda coffee table. At the centre of the living room, the table is an anchor for the surrounding soft furnishings and misty-grey palette. But far from overpowering the apartment-sized space, the table’s transparency allows the room to feel spacious and light.
Further south, Katty Shiebeck’s Barcelona apartment maximises the quintessential Spanish sunshine that streams in from generous city-view windows. The light, which is enhanced by pristine white walls, is cleverly absorbed by an enviable parquet floor – an ideal backdrop to appreciate the angular form of the Alanda. The table’s clean lines guide the eye to the centre of a large living space defined by a subtle juxtaposition of classic architecture and contemporary furnishings. This Barcelona home proves that the Alanda’s beauty is best appreciated in a space of ample proportions and minimal distractions.
The home demonstrates the power of the Alanda coffee table to frame and reflect; to define a room while defining its contents, too.
Maria Santana’s New York City apartment is an ode to a life spent curating beauty. Set against a clean, white backdrop, black-framed artwork is complemented by the home’s industrial window frames and, of course, by the black framework of the Alando coffee table at the centre of the living room. It’s an ordered interior scheme that gives harmony to an eclectic collection of exotic sculptures, ornaments and fabrics. The home demonstrates the power of the Alanda coffee table to frame and reflect; to define a room while defining its contents, too.
You may have already spotted this 19th century Parisian apartment. The interiors have inspired many a dream home Pinterest board. We think it’s down to the way it is at once homely and warm, stately and grand – combining an eclectic mix of objects with ornate, lofty ceilings and a well-loved parquet floor. The judicious choice of the Alanda coffee table shows the owner’s thoughtful approach to classic minimalism. Blending vintage pieces with contemporary classics gives this Haussmannian home a timeless character befitting of Piva’s lasting design legacy. Here, style truly starts with the table.
Explore B&B Italia’s Alanda ‘18 and the new Eda-Mame Sofa by Piero Lissoni and enjoy 15% off here.
