Ever wondered what truly captivates the minds of design experts when they step away from the latest trends and industry showcases? At Design Milk, we believe that true appreciation for design often stems from deeply personal connections. That’s why, twice a month, we pull back the curtain and invite a member of our esteemed team to share five personal favorites – objects, places, or concepts that resonate with them on a profound level.
This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Executive Editor Elizabeth Pagliacolo to our ‘Take 5’ series. Known for her discerning eye and insightful commentary, Elizabeth offers a unique glimpse into the designs that fuel her passion and shape her world. Prepare to be inspired as she reveals a curated collection spanning iconic architecture, playful objects, and spaces that stir the soul.
Elizabeth Pagliacolo’s Design Delights: A Personal ‘Take 5’
1. The Poetic Geometry of a Heart-Shaped Park
Elizabeth kicks off her list with an appreciation for the unexpected beauty found in landscape architecture: the heart-shaped park. “There’s something inherently charming and utterly romantic about a space designed with such a clear, emotive form,” she explains. “It’s a deliberate act of shaping nature into a symbol of affection, transforming a simple green space into a memorable landmark. It speaks to the power of design to evoke emotion and create a sense of wonder, making the everyday extraordinary.”
2. Seletti’s Iconic BIC Pen Lamp
Next up is a playful nod to everyday objects elevated to art: Seletti’s BIC Pen Lamp. “This piece perfectly encapsulates the wit and irreverence I adore in design,” says Pagliacolo. “It takes a universally recognized, disposable item and transforms it into a functional, stylish light fixture. It’s a brilliant commentary on consumer culture, sustainability, and the blurred lines between high design and pop art. Plus, it just makes you smile.”
3. Carlo Scarpa’s Castelvecchio Museum
For her third pick, Elizabeth delves into architectural mastery, highlighting Carlo Scarpa’s renovation of the Castelvecchio Museum in Verona. “Scarpa’s work at Castelvecchio is, for me, a masterclass in sensitive intervention,” she enthuses. “He didn’t just restore; he engaged in a profound dialogue with history, creating new pathways and details that both honor the past and assert a modern sensibility. Every joint, every material transition, every view is meticulously considered, revealing a deep respect for craftsmanship and context. It’s a truly immersive and endlessly fascinating experience.”
4. The Enduring Comfort of the Eames Lounge Chair
No personal design collection would be complete without a nod to timeless furniture, and Elizabeth’s fourth choice is the iconic Eames Lounge Chair. “It’s more than just a chair; it’s a sanctuary,” she states. “The Eames Lounge Chair represents the pinnacle of mid-century modern design – a perfect blend of luxurious comfort, ergonomic brilliance, and aesthetic grace. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to feel both utterly contemporary and deeply classic, a testament to design that truly understands human needs and desires.”
5. The Tactile Richness of Japanese Woodworking
Rounding out her ‘Take 5’ is an appreciation for a craft tradition: Japanese woodworking. “The precision, the reverence for natural materials, and the sheer artistry involved in traditional Japanese woodworking techniques are simply breathtaking,” Elizabeth shares. “From intricate joinery that requires no nails to the smooth, inviting finishes, it’s a discipline that embodies patience, skill, and a deep connection to nature. It reminds us that true beauty often lies in meticulous detail and the celebration of raw, honest materials.”
Elizabeth Pagliacolo’s selections offer a compelling journey through diverse design philosophies, from the whimsical to the profoundly architectural. Her ‘Take 5’ not only celebrates exceptional design but also invites us to look closer at the world around us and find inspiration in the unexpected.
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