Design Centre Stories

A Love Letter to Venice

As Rubelli announces that it can now send out large samples and ship fabrics from Italy to keep projects moving for international clients, there is no better moment to reflect on the legendary Venetian company’s recent collaboration with renowned architect Peter Marino.

The Peter Marino for Venetian Heritage collection is a celebration of the architect’s deep connection to the city and commitment to its heritage, incorporating textures and shimmering colours inspired by the city’s unique location and quality of light. “I want light in all of my work, and the light on the water in the canals makes me absolutely crazy with joy,” he says.

Today, as residents of Venice are noticing a vast improvement in the water quality of the famous canals, with fish now visible in the previously murky waters, the collection has taken on a whole new meaning, signifying a return to the magical aqua hues that Marino was so inspired by.

The collection of three silk jacquards comes in a palette of salmon pink, glossy white, aqua and icy blue, brought to life by various innovative weaving techniques that replicate the rippling waters of Venice. ‘Lucente’ (pictured top) features irregular lines that break the sheen on the silk satin background, imitating the movement of small waves on still water; the matelassé relief of ‘Tiepolo’ (below left) results in a surface that shines with endless shades of colour; and ‘Marino’ (below right) is a joyful sequence of animated curves, reminiscent of a dynamic sea.

Marino, who has already specified the textiles for several of his own projects, is best known for his work on the flagship boutiques of luxury fashion brands such as Louis Vuitton, Fendi and Christian Dior. He embarked on his devotion to Venice two decades ago when he was commissioned to renovate an apartment on the Grand Canal; today, he is the president of the Venetian Heritage Foundation, an association that deals with the restoration of Venetian works of art.

The architect’s passion for the city, coupled with the Rubelli family’s deeply rooted heritage there, has resulted in a truly authentic partnership that serves as a love letter to Venice, with profits from the sales of the collection to be donated to the Venetian Heritage Foundation.

Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour remains in support of all its showrooms, despite their closure during this time. Until restrictions are lifted, please contact each showroom directly for more information, or ask for help from the Design Centre’s Personal Shopping or Designer Sourcing Service.

Rubelli, Ground Floor, Design Centre East

 

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