Sfrido, the potato peeler designed by Valerio Sommella is part of the collection Objects Bijoux. Its very name (‘sfrido’ is Italian for scrap) hints at its function, a clear reference to the waste produced when using it. The story of Sigurd and his sword, which was so sharp that he was able to cut an anvil and a dragon in two, were a source of inspiration. The shape of Sfrido recalls a stylised ribbon: a continuous band that gently bends and twists and eventually encloses the blade. The curves created by these dynamic lines enable you to hold the object in a natural way, guaranteeing an ergonomic grip. The reduced size and smooth forms of the potato peeler enable the user to grip the object in the way they find most comfortable and it's suitable for all types of vegetables.

PRODUCT INFORMATION

Designer - Valerio Sommella
Dimensions -  6.50cm x 6cm 
Material - 18/10 stainless steel mirror polished

ABOUT THE DESIGNER

Alessandro Mendini (1931-2019), architect, was born in Milan. He directed the magazines Casabella, Modo, Domus; he collaborated with international companies; and was a consultant for various industries, including those in the East Asia. He was awarded the Compasso d'oro Prize for design (1979-1981-2014). He was appointed Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres in France and he achieved the Architectural League of New York and the Laurea Honoris Causa at the universities of Milan, Paris, Wroclaw, Seoul. His works can be found in various museums and private collections.

ABOUT ALESSI

For over a century, Alessi has been creating extraordinary objects that make people dream, feel, think and experience poetry in their daily lives. By collaborating with the best creative minds from around the world, Alessi brings the most unexpected and contemporary expressions of design culture into people’s homes.

The Italian company was founded in 1921 by Giovanni Alessi and initially concentrated on metal kitchenware. His products and designs of coffee pots became so popular, that by 1924 the brand name ‘Alessi’ was well established.

By the 1950s the company broadened its approach, deciding to collaborate with well-known designers. The aim was to break away from modernism and even traditional designs and to try more unconventional design ideas, including those from groups such as Studio Alchima (Alessandro Mendini) and Memphis (Ettore Sottsass). Other designers associated with Alessi include Aldo Rossi, Philippe Starck and Michael Graves. The collaborative and creative approach they use has become the hallmark of the Alessi brand.

Alessi is now a B Corp, a company which strives to maximise the positive impact they have on their employees, the communities in which they operate and the environment, by using the business as a force for regeneration and sustainability.