Leave it to the talented and inventive designers and architects who collaborate with Italian design factory Alessi to turn the most mundane kitchen utensils into stunningly sleek housewares that leave nothing but memorable experiences.

Its latest collection, available locally at the Alessi Philippines store on Bonifacio High Street in The Fort, Taguig City, is no different.

Included in the collection is the mortar and pestle given a makeover by Finnish interior designer Eero Aarnio, one of the great innovators of contemporary Scandinavian design who became an iconic figure in the 1960s for his Ball Chair. The generally clunky mortar, one of the most ancient utensils in the contemporary chef’s arsenal, now sports Eero’s signature smooth and playful curves in its short cylinder base, accompanied by a polished, ergonomic pestle.

To show that his projects are not just all about fun but also about function, Eero also designed the “Diva,” a watering can with an ‘attitude’. Not compromising his trademark Scandinavian simplicity, the thermoplastic watering can was designed like singers in an opera tilting backwards in full forte.   

Another new Allessi item in the collection that is getting the raves is the “Tèo” teaspoon by young Austrian designer Karin Santorso. Deceivingly looking simple and understated, the sculptural design of Tèo was inspired by the shape of a curled leaf. Its wide spoon cradles the tea bag, which is squeezed when the hollow handle narrows slightly, stringing up through the top and the steeped tea runs cleanly down the spoon, and into the teacup. The design innovation has been described as a “more dignified approach” to the centuries-old tradition of tea drinking.

Another surprisingly simple but elegant item in the collection is the folding cake stand called “Anna Gong,” designed by Milan-born designer and architect Alessandro Mendini Mendini. When folded, the cake stand is compact and modern; when expanded, it takes on an air of elegance, much like the face of a graceful ballerina that inspired Mendini’s iconic “Anna G” corkscrew.

While not whimsical as Mendini’s and Eero’s projects, another standout in the Alessi Fall/Winter collection is the new “Spirogira” family by Spanish architect Patricia Urquiola, which is comprised of
three items: a fruit bowl, a basket, and a table centerpiece. The design simply revolves around the skillful fashioning of steel wire into great swirls. With its modular design, the surprise comes when the items are stacked together.

The collection also includes the highly successful “Dressed” table set presented by Dutch product and interior designer Marcel Wanders, and the works of other young and promising designers that make Alessi an indisputable design powerhouse. Check out the items at the Alessi Philippines store on Bonifacio High Street in The Fort, Taguig City.