DESIGN STORIES
FERRIANI SBOLGI
Every decision, no matter how small, should contribute to a sense of harmony and purpose.
DESIGN STORIES
FERRIANI SBOLGI
ferriani.sbolgi is a creative duo based in Florence, Italy, specializing in product design, furniture design, and art direction. Founded in 2020 by Sara Sbolgi and Marco Ferriani, the studio’s design philosophy is rooted in close collaboration with clients to develop bespoke products that seamlessly align with each brand’s aesthetic and values.
From initial concept through to final execution, ferriani.sbolgi accompanies each project through every stage of the design process, ensuring a coherent and refined outcome.
The studio was recognized by Dezeen in 2022 as one of the emerging design studios of the year. In 2023, it received the Archiproducts Design Award for the “Diade” product, designed for Foster, as well as the Red Dot Design Award for “Origami,” designed for Magnetolab.
INTERVIEW
AURA COLLECTION
Working as a duo is different from working solo. How do you divide responsibilities between yourselves? Can you describe your collaborative process?
We bring different strengths to the table, but it’s our shared vision that keeps everything cohesive. The process is less about dividing tasks and more about building ideas together from different angles. That combination makes things dynamic, never dull and adds layers of depth to each project.
This isn’t our first collaboration. How does our second collaboration differ from the first? What were the unique circumstances or lessons from the previous experience?
We value long-term collaborations because each project deepens our understanding of the people and context we’re designing for. Over time, the process becomes smoother and more intuitive — we develop a shared language that allows for more meaningful and context-aware outcomes.
What kinds of lines, shapes or forms are you drawn to in your work?
We’re drawn to forms that balance clarity and warmth — clean lines softened by subtle curves or geometric structures infused with organic touches. These tensions give our work character: simple but never sterile, expressive but never excessive.
Do you prefer working with natural daylight or artificial/night lighting? How does this choice influence your work?
Natural daylight is gentler on the eyes and essential for accurately perceiving colors and textures in their true form, making it ideal for much of our work. At the same time, there’s a unique warmth and intimacy that comes from well-dimmed artificial lighting, which inspires a different mood and approach.
What does “good lighting” mean to you and why is it so crucial in your creative process?
Lighting occupies a unique role among furniture and decor, as it profoundly shapes the perception of all other elements in a room. Good lighting has the power to make or break a space — it influences how every other piece is seen and experienced.
What matters most to you as creators when approaching a project?
For us, it’s about integrity — staying true to the context, the people who will live with the design, and the materials we choose. Every decision, no matter how small, should contribute to a sense of harmony and purpose.
What do you think makes your projects unique? How do you define their value?
We aim to strike a careful balance between detail, function, and emotion. Our intention is to create designs that feel thoughtful and purposeful, connecting with users in a meaningful way and standing the test of time. This is made possible through close and valuable collaboration with the design company.
Which characteristics of a product help it endure both physically and in the memory of people?
A product endures when it combines lasting quality with thoughtful design. Timelessness is key — pieces that balance archetypal and contemporary elements while paying close attention to detail remain relevant over time.
What passions or interests outside of design influence your work and creative process?
Our creative process is enriched by a wide range of passions — from nature’s organic forms and architectural precision to contemporary art, fashion and technology.
Do you prefer working from home or elsewhere? How does your environment impact your workflow and creativity?
We primarily work from our office, which provides a focused and collaborative environment. Occasionally shifting to other settings helps us gain fresh perspectives and new energy, giving projects a vital spark. Most importantly, visiting factories and engaging in prototype checks grounds our work in reality, allowing us to refine details and ensure the highest quality.
