Berlin goes backstage at Alessi

Curling kettle by Achille Castiglioni, 1995

Wasistdas? Hinter den Kulissen der italienischen Designschmiede Alessi (Behind the scenes of Alessi, Italian design factory) runs until the end of August at the Direktorenhaus art gallery in Berlin. Curated by the Museo Alessi, the show opens the innermost parts of the museum's collection to the public.

826 round wire basket by Ufficio Tecnico Alessi, 1948

With a total of 23,000 objects, the Alessi Museum houses a fascinating glimpse into the archives of one of the Italian leaders of contemporary design.

Orloff dishes by Patricia Urquiola, 2005

24 objects have been selected for this show, which represent the unknown and even surprising aspects of the work of the Italian design factory. Each of the objects, which range from prototypes and moulds to production pieces, are linked to projects developed at Alessi.

For a further insight into the ethos of Alessi, WGSN-homebuildlife subscribers can read Alberto Alessi's passionate text on the importance of design, Dream Factories.