The shape of wood
- Riccardo is a multidisciplinary architect and artisan
- His workshop is located in a small village in the Italian Alps
- He employs traditional techniques with a modern approach
Riccardo Monte runs RMD – a creative studio based in the Italian Alps. He is a multidisciplinary architect and artisan working across product, furniture and architectural design. Following eight years of work as an architect in London, in 2016 he returned to Ornavasso, in northern Italy, his home town. His practice is defined by slow craftsmanship and a dedication to material authenticity. Riccardo creates unique furniture, inspired by the principles of beauty, simplicity, longevity and craftsmanship. He is directly involved in the design and the handmade process of each product. His final pieces, whether small-scale art objects, furniture, homeware or architecture find richness in imperfection and elegance in simplicity. All materials are sourced locally and he employs traditional techniques in his execution with a modern approach.
Interview
- How do you choose the wood for your works?
- I’m constantly looking for a wood with special characteristics. In my work I experienced many different kinds of wood and this enabled me to understand which is the best for my creations. I’m curious about this material and I always want to try new types of wood.
- How and when did you approach the world of the wood?
- When I was living in England I had a workshop where I was working with wood. It was when I got back to Italy that I realised how little I knew about the material. Since than I have I studied wood and have been working in a variety of types: I think that learning by doing is the best approach.
- When is an object well made, in your opinion?
- First of all, well made means something that satisfies myself. A well made object doesn’t have to be perfect. But I think that a well made object is time-consuming: if you want to create something of value, you have to dedicate time and perseverance to your object.
- What are your future plans?
- I don’t tend to make plans. The most important thing for me is to enjoy my work day by day, doing something that satisfies me and not get bored of it. I would like to organise some exhibitions and continue to train some apprentices from my home town, as I’m already doing.
Riccardo Monte is a rising star: he began his career in 2017 and he started teaching in 2017
Where
Riccardo Monte
