altreforme is an Italian design brand that has redefined the boundaries of contemporary furniture through its pioneering use of aluminum.
Founded in 2008 by Valentina Fontana, a third-generation member of the Fontana Group, the brand emerged as an innovative offshoot of a company renowned for crafting aluminum bodies for luxury automobiles like Ferrari, Rolls-Royce, and Aston Martin. This deep-rooted expertise in precision engineering and advanced metalwork laid the foundation for altreforme’s bold venture into the world of high-end design.
At the heart of altreforme’s philosophy is a commitment to transforming aluminum, a material often associated with industrial applications, into expressive, sculptural forms that challenge conventional aesthetics.
By leveraging cutting-edge technologies from the automotive sector, such as CNC milling, laser cutting, and advanced forming techniques, the brand achieves fluid, sinuous shapes and intricate surface treatments previously thought impossible in aluminum. This technical mastery enables the creation of furniture pieces that are not only visually striking but also lightweight, durable, and entirely recyclable, aligning with the brand’s dedication to sustainability.
altreforme’s product portfolio encompasses a diverse range of furniture and accessories, including chairs, tables, cabinets, and decorative objects.
The brand’s commitment to personalization is epitomized by its Sartoria (yes to all) service, a bespoke service that collaborates with architects, interior designers, and clients to produce custom pieces tailored to specific visions and spaces. This emphasis on individuality and customization appeals to a discerning clientele that values originality and exclusivity in design.
The brand’s reputation in the design industry is bolstered by collaborations with an array of esteemed designers and artists, such as Aziz Sariyer, Marco Piva, Elena Cutolo, Antonio Aricò, and Studio Fuksas. Notably, altreforme has also partnered with fashion houses like Moschino and Yazbukey, resulting in collections that infuse furniture design with whimsical and avant-garde elements. These partnerships have garnered international acclaim, with the brand receiving accolades like the Elle Decor Design Award and showcasing its collections at prestigious events such as the Salone del Mobile in Milan.
What distinguishes altreforme in the high-end design landscape is its unique fusion of industrial precision and artistic creativity. By repurposing advanced automotive manufacturing techniques for the realm of interior design, the brand crafts pieces that are both technically sophisticated and aesthetically captivating.
This innovative approach, combined with a steadfast commitment to sustainability and customization, positions altreforme as a trailblazer in contemporary design, offering products that are as environmentally conscious as they are visually compelling.
Quality and Craftsmanship
altreforme's commitment to quality and craftsmanship is deeply rooted in its heritage, drawing from the Fontana Group's extensive experience in crafting aluminum bodies for luxury automobiles like Ferrari and Rolls-Royce. This legacy has endowed altreforme with unparalleled expertise in manipulating aluminum, a material known for its lightness, durability, and recyclability. By selecting high-grade aluminum, the brand ensures that each piece not only meets aesthetic standards but also offers resilience against corrosion and environmental factors.
Expertise in shaping aluminum for luxury automobiles evolves into a daring exploration of high-end design. Image courtesy of the Fontana Group website.
The manufacturing process at altreforme is a harmonious blend of advanced technology and meticulous hand-finishing. Utilizing state-of-the-art techniques such as CNC milling, laser cutting, and cold stamping, the brand achieves precise and intricate designs that push the boundaries of conventional furniture making. These technological processes are complemented by skilled artisans who apply finishes like anodizing, polishing, and custom surface decorations, ensuring each piece exudes a refined elegance.
A prime example of altreforme's dedication to quality and craftsmanship is the Maschera Chair, designed in collaboration with Moschino. This piece showcases a whimsical design, where golden aluminum wires intricately weave around a soft leather seat, creating a fairy-like appearance. The chair not only highlights the brand's ability to merge fashion and furniture but also underscores their attention to detail and innovative use of materials.
The Maschera Chair by altreforme not only highlights the brand's ability to merge fashion and furniture but also underscores their attention to detail and innovative use of materials.
The Camicia Cabinet another example of altreforme's attention to detail and innovative use of materials.
Durability is a cornerstone of altreforme's products. The inherent strength of aluminum, combined with the brand's rigorous production standards, results in furniture that withstands the test of time. Whether placed indoors or outdoors, these pieces maintain their structural integrity and visual appeal, reflecting the brand's dedication to creating lasting designs.
Customization is another facet that elevates altreforme's craftsmanship. Through its Sartoria line, the brand offers bespoke solutions tailored to individual client needs, allowing for personalized dimensions, finishes, and decorative elements. This bespoke approach ensures that each creation resonates with the client's personal style and functional requirements.
Several collections and products exemplify altreforme's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The Colletto coffee table, designed in collaboration with Moschino, showcases how aluminum can be manipulated to create innovative and sophisticated furniture. Inspired by the ruffled collar of the traditional Harlequin, the table features folded-aluminum sheets painted with a metallic effect, highlighting the successful union of design and fashion.
The Colletto coffee table, designed in collaboration with Moschino, showcases how aluminum can be manipulated to create innovative and sophisticated furniture.
Another notable example is the Otto room divider (part of Blu di Prussia collection), born from an upcycling approach utilizing aluminum sheets no longer suitable for the automotive industry. Designed by Doriana and Massimiliano Fuksas, this dynamic partition with an irregular pattern won the Archiproducts Design Award in the Sustainability category, emphasizing altreforme's dedication to eco-friendly practices.
the Otto room divider emphasizing altreforme's dedication to eco-friendly practices.
The Galactica collection by Antonio Aricò further demonstrates the brand's ability to infuse whimsy and color into aluminum furniture. Presented at Salone del Mobile, the collection features playful designs that challenge traditional perceptions of metal furniture, highlighting altreforme's innovative spirit.
The Galactica collection highlighting altreforme's innovative spirit.
altreforme's fusion of cutting-edge technology, artisanal skill, and a deep respect for material quality culminates in furniture that is both innovative and enduring. Their pieces not only serve functional purposes but also stand as testaments to superior craftsmanship and thoughtful design.
In conclusion, altreforme stands as a paragon of quality and craftsmanship in the furniture industry. By harnessing the Fontana Group's automotive expertise, the brand has redefined what is possible with aluminum, creating pieces that are durable, customizable, and environmentally conscious. Through meticulous manufacturing techniques, hand-finishing, and a commitment to innovation, altreforme delivers furniture that is both premium and reliable, catering to clients who seek originality and excellence in design.
Customization Options
altreforme offers an exceptional level of customization that sets it apart in the luxury design landscape. Through its dedicated Sartoria (yes to all) service, the brand transforms aluminum into bespoke creations tailored to the unique visions of architects, interior designers, and discerning clients. This atelier-like approach allows for personalization across various dimensions, including materials, finishes, colors, sizes, and intricate decorative elements.
Clients can select from a diverse range of aluminum alloys and thicknesses, enabling the creation of pieces that align precisely with their aesthetic and functional requirements. The brand's advanced manufacturing techniques, inherited from its automotive heritage, facilitate the realization of complex forms and detailed designs that were previously unattainable in aluminum furniture. This technical prowess ensures that each customized piece is not only visually striking but also structurally sound and durable.
The spectrum of finishes available is vast, encompassing options such as anodization, polishing, satin finishing, sandblasting, and chromium plating. Clients can choose from an extensive palette of RAL and Pantone colors, as well as translucent hues and unique surface treatments like kimono printing and laser-cut decorations. This array of choices empowers clients to infuse their personal style into every aspect of the design, resulting in truly one-of-a-kind pieces.
Beyond aesthetic customization, altreforme offers flexibility in dimensions and structural configurations, accommodating specific spatial constraints and functional needs. Whether it's adapting an existing design or developing a concept from scratch, the brand's collaborative process ensures that the final product resonates with the client's vision. This bespoke service extends to various sectors, including residential, commercial, hospitality, and cultural spaces, demonstrating the brand's versatility and commitment to personalized design solutions.
In essence, altreforme's dedication to customization reflects its philosophy of merging technological innovation with artistic expression. By offering an unparalleled degree of personalization, the brand enables clients to create environments that are not only functional and sustainable but also deeply reflective of their individual identities and aspirations.
Price Range
The price range mentioned below is based on our independent research, which includes information gathered from the brand's public info as well as listings found on both primary and secondary marketplaces.
altreforme positions itself firmly within the high-end segment of the luxury furniture market, with pricing that reflects its commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and bespoke design. The brand's offerings are characterized by their use of high-quality aluminum, advanced manufacturing techniques, and collaborations with renowned designers, all of which contribute to their premium pricing.
For seating options, prices vary based on design complexity and customization. The Pace Easy Chair for instance is priced at approximately $4,000, showcasing the brand's dedication to combining comfort with artistic design. Another example is the Lingotto Chair also priced at approximately $4000 which reflects the brand's penchant for luxurious finishes and unique forms.
Tables and larger furniture pieces command higher prices, indicative of their intricate designs and the labor-intensive processes involved. The Lingotto Armchair for example is listed at approximately $8,000 while the Plex Table is listed at approximately $7,000. These pieces not only serve functional purposes but also act as statement artworks within a space.
The brand's commitment to customization further influences pricing. Clients seeking bespoke solutions through the Sartoria service can expect prices to reflect the personalized nature of their requests. For instance, the Scocca Sideboard is priced at approximately $23,000 highlighting the brand's ability to merge functionality with personalized artistry.
In summary, altreforme's pricing strategy aligns with its position as a purveyor of luxury, bespoke aluminum furniture. The brand's offerings are not merely functional items but are considered investments in artful design and superior craftsmanship. For clients who value originality, sustainability, and the fusion of industrial precision with artistic expression, altreforme presents a compelling, albeit premium, choice.
Sustainability
The information on altreforme’s sustainability is based on our own thorough research using publicly available information from the brand’s official website and other sources. Its imortant to highlight that all of altreforme's products are made from 100% aluminum, which is fully recyclable.
altreforme demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability, integrating eco-conscious practices throughout its design and manufacturing processes. Central to the brand's philosophy is the use of aluminum, a material renowned for its durability, lightness, and recyclability. By selecting high-grade aluminum alloys, often as thin as 0.9 mm, altreforme ensures that each piece not only meets aesthetic standards but also offers resilience against corrosion and environmental factors. This choice aligns with the brand's dedication to creating products that are both innovative and environmentally responsible. The end result is Eco-friendly products conceived for a sustainable future (100% aluminium, 100% recyclable).
The production techniques employed by altreforme are adapted from the automotive industry, reflecting the brand's origins within the Fontana Group, a leader in luxury car body manufacturing. These advanced methods, including CNC milling and laser cutting, allow for precise and intricate designs while minimizing material waste. Moreover, the manufacturing processes are designed to be non-polluting, striving for zero environmental impact. This approach underscores altreforme's commitment to reducing its ecological footprint and promoting sustainable production practices.
In addition to its manufacturing practices, altreforme emphasizes sustainability through its product offerings. The brand's collections are designed to be long-lasting, reducing the need for frequent replacements and thereby minimizing environmental impact. Furthermore, the use of aluminum ensures that products are not only durable but also fully recyclable at the end of their lifecycle. This cradle-to-cradle approach reflects a holistic view of sustainability, considering the environmental implications of a product from creation to disposal.
While we could not find any specific official certifications on the brand official website, altreforme's practices align with key principles of sustainable design and manufacturing. The brand's focus on recyclable materials, efficient production methods, and durable product design positions it as a responsible choice for consumers seeking eco-friendly luxury furniture.
In summary, altreforme integrates sustainability into every facet of its operations, from material selection and production techniques to product design and lifecycle considerations. This comprehensive approach ensures that the brand's offerings are not only aesthetically compelling but also environmentally responsible, catering to a clientele that values both luxury and sustainability.
B2B Support
We were unable to find any publicly available information regarding altreforme’s discounted pricing or access to BIM/CAD files on the brand’s official website or other public sources. The only clearly documented support we identified pertains to the brand’s Sartoria (yes to all) service and the availability of technical sheets for individual products.
Discounted Pricing: Based on our own research, we could not find any publicly available information regarding trade discounts, project pricing, or volume deals offered by altreforme. While it is common for companies in the furniture and design sector to provide such pricing models to professional clients, altreforme does not appear to detail these options on its official website or in accessible online materials. We recommend that professionals contact the brand directly for more information regarding potential B2B pricing models. We would also welcome clearer and more accessible information about trade pricing on the brand’s official channels.
Acess To BIM/CAD: We could not find any official reference to BIM or CAD file access on altreforme’s website. Such resources are highly valuable to professionals, particularly architects and interior designers who rely on them for seamless integration into their project workflows. While we did come across some BIM/CAD files associated with altreforme products on third-party platforms, we were unable to verify their authenticity or whether they were provided with official authorization. Additionally, many of these files were only accessible through paid downloads. We hope to see altreforme provide verified and easily accessible BIM/CAD files directly through their website, or at least clear guidance on how to obtain them, in order to better support the needs of the professional design community.
Access to Technical Sheets: altreforme does offer technical sheets for its products, which are readily available on their website. Each product listing includes a downloadable PDF file containing essential technical specifications. This is a valuable resource for professionals looking to integrate altreforme’s pieces into their projects with precision. The availability of these documents indicates a level of transparency and consideration for the technical demands of interior designers and architects.
Dedicated Support: For more comprehensive support, altreforme provides its Sartoria service, which is specifically tailored to architects, interior designers, contractors, and clients in search of bespoke solutions. Sartoria enables professionals to collaborate closely with altreforme’s design and production teams to develop fully customized pieces that align with project-specific requirements. With the versatility of aluminum as its core material, Sartoria allows for adjustments in dimensions, finishes, and decorative detailing. This high-touch, collaborative process underscores altreforme’s dedication to serving professionals and reinforces its role as a creative partner in high-end, custom design projects.
Overall, altreforme provides a moderate level of support for design professionals. Through its Sartoria service, the brand offers a valuable opportunity for architects, interior designers, and contractors to collaborate directly with its design and production teams, enabling the creation of fully customized pieces tailored to specific project needs. However, the lack of clear information regarding access to BIM/CAD files and lack of clear information regarding discounted pricing for trade professionals is a notable limitation. We believe greater transparency in these areas would enhance altreforme’s appeal to professionals, and we would welcome more detailed resources and support information on the brand’s official website.
Ideal For
altreforme is particularly well-suited for projects that seek to merge avant-garde design with luxury craftsmanship, catering to clients who value originality, bold aesthetics, and high-quality materials. The brand’s expertise in transforming aluminum into sculptural furniture pieces makes it an ideal choice for luxury residences, boutique hotels, high-end retail spaces, and contemporary offices that aim to make a distinctive visual statement.
In luxury residential settings, altreforme's pieces serve as functional art, adding a unique character to living spaces. For instance, the Lingotto Easy Chair, with its multifaceted form reminiscent of a gold nugget, offers both comfort and a striking visual appeal, making it a centerpiece in sophisticated living rooms or lounges. Similarly, the Maschera Black Chair, a collaboration with Moschino, features a mask-shaped backrest and gold-plated aluminum legs, embodying a blend of fashion and design that resonates with clients seeking exclusive and expressive furnishings.
Boutique hotels aiming to provide guests with an immersive and memorable experience can benefit from altreforme's customizable offerings. The brand's Sartoria service allows for bespoke creations tailored to the specific themes and aesthetics of hospitality projects. An example of this is the furnishing of Moschino's boutique in Paris, where altreforme crafted made-to-measure aluminum furniture characterized by challenging shapes and vibrant colors, enhancing the brand's theatrical interior concept. Such collaborations demonstrate altreforme's capability to deliver unique solutions that align with a client's brand identity and design vision.
In the realm of commercial spaces, particularly high-end retail stores and contemporary offices, altreforme's furniture can contribute to an environment that reflects innovation and sophistication. The Galactica collection, designed by Antonio Aricò, showcases futuristic indoor and outdoor pieces with strong geometry and metallic finishes, suitable for cutting-edge office interiors or avant-garde retail displays. The collection's bold silhouettes and graphic edges can transform conventional spaces into dynamic environments that inspire creativity and forward-thinking.
Moreover, altreforme's commitment to sustainability, with products made entirely from 100% recyclable aluminum, appeals to clients who prioritize environmentally responsible design without compromising on luxury. The brand's ability to offer endless customization options in terms of colors, finishes, and forms ensures that each piece can be tailored to fit the unique requirements of diverse projects, from private residences to public installations.
In summary, altreforme's distinctive approach to design and manufacturing makes it an excellent fit for projects that aspire to combine luxury, innovation, and sustainability. Its versatile offerings and bespoke services cater to a clientele that values individuality and seeks to create spaces that are both functional and artistically compelling.
Awards
altreforme has garnered significant recognition in the international design community, earning accolades that underscore its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and artistic excellence.
One of the most notable achievements is the Archiproducts Design Award 2022 in the Sustainability category, awarded for the Otto room divider designed by Doriana and Massimiliano Fuksas. This piece exemplifies altreforme's dedication to eco-friendly design, utilizing upcycled aluminum sheets from the automotive industry to create a dynamic, ever-changing pattern that reflects both environmental consciousness and aesthetic sophistication.
In 2019, altreforme's innovative approach was further recognized when its Mata & Grifo cabinets, designed by Antonio Aricò and Elena Salmistraro, were honored as finalists in the Residential Storage category at the Interior Design Best of Year Awards in New York. This acknowledgment highlights the brand's ability to blend artistic flair with functional design, appealing to a discerning clientele seeking unique and expressive furniture pieces.
Earlier in its journey, altreforme received the Elle Decor International Design Award in 2009 for its Cioccolata bookshelf, a piece that challenged conventional furniture design through its sculptural form and innovative use of aluminum. This early recognition set the tone for the brand's continued exploration of bold, unconventional designs that push the boundaries of material and form.
These awards and honors reflect altreforme's position at the forefront of contemporary design, where its unique fusion of automotive technology and artistic vision results in furniture that is both avant-garde and environmentally responsible. The brand's collaborations with renowned designers and architects further cement its reputation as a leader in the creation of distinctive, high-quality pieces that resonate with a global audience.
Design Collaborations
altreforme has established itself as a dynamic force in contemporary design through a series of innovative collaborations with renowned designers and creative talents. These partnerships have resulted in collections that blend artistic vision with advanced aluminum craftsmanship, reflecting the brand's commitment to pushing the boundaries of furniture design.
One of the most notable collaborations is with the iconic fashion house Moschino. Together, they created the Arlecchino collection, a series of scenographic furniture pieces inspired by the traditional Italian commedia dell'arte character. This collection includes the Maschera chair, featuring a mask-shaped backrest and gold-plated aluminum legs, and the Colletto table, reminiscent of Arlecchino's ruffled collar. These pieces exemplify the successful fusion of fashion and design, showcasing altreforme's ability to translate theatrical elements into functional art.
In celebration of its 10th anniversary, altreforme launched the Raw&Rainbow collection, enlisting five prominent Italian designers: Antonio Aricò, Serena Confalonieri, Marcantonio, Alessandro Zambelli, and the duo Zanellato/Bortotto. Each designer contributed two pieces, one emphasizing the raw, material essence of aluminum, and the other highlighting its vibrant, pop-art potential. Marcantonio's Alla Terra sculpture, for instance, features golden tactile roots symbolizing a connection to Mother Earth, reflecting the collection's theme of materiality and color.
altreforme's collaboration with designer Antonio Aricò resulted in the Galactica collection, a series of futuristic indoor and outdoor furniture pieces characterized by strong geometry and metallic finishes. The Droid chair from this collection exemplifies the brand's commitment to combining innovative design with advanced manufacturing techniques.
The brand has also ventured into the realm of fashion accessories with the Home Sweet Home collection, designed by Yazbukey. This collection transforms aluminum into playful, colorful furniture pieces that reflect Yazbukey's signature pop-art style, further demonstrating altreforme's versatility and willingness to explore new creative avenues.
Through these diverse collaborations, altreforme continues to redefine the possibilities of aluminum in design, creating pieces that are not only functional but also serve as bold artistic statements. The brand's commitment to innovation and its ability to seamlessly integrate different creative disciplines make it a standout in the contemporary design landscape.
Products Availability
altreforme's products are available through select online retailers, including Artemest, Mohd Shop, and 1stDibs. These platforms offer a range of the brand's furniture and accessories, with customizable options and detailed product information. For example, Artemest lists items like the Otto Divider and Bruto Limited Edition Sculpture, with shipping times typically ranging from 9 to 14 weeks, depending on the piece.
The brand's Sartoria service caters to professionals seeking bespoke solutions, allowing for extensive customization in terms of shape, finish, and decoration. This service is particularly beneficial for architects and interior designers working on unique projects.
While altreforme does not operate standalone showrooms, its participation in events like the Salone del Mobile in Milan provides opportunities for professionals and clients to experience their products firsthand. Additionally, the brand's presence on selected platforms ensures international accessibility, with shipping options available to various countries.
In summary, sourcing altreforme's products is facilitated directly through the brand, through reputable online retailers and through altreforme's Sartoria service. The Sartoria service further enhances accessibility for professionals requiring tailored solutions. While the absence of physical showrooms may limit in-person experiences, the brand's active participation in major design events helps bridge this gap.
Sourcing from altreforme - Is It Worth It?
For professionals (architects, interior designers) and high-end retailers, sourcing from altreforme presents a compelling proposition that blends avant-garde aesthetics with industrial precision. Rooted in the heritage of the Fontana Group, a leader in crafting aluminum bodies for luxury automotive brands like Ferrari and Rolls Royce, altreforme leverages over six decades of metallurgical expertise to produce furniture that is both structurally innovative and visually striking. This unique fusion of automotive engineering and design artistry results in pieces that are not only lightweight and durable but also embody a distinctive design language that sets them apart in the luxury furniture market.
The brand's commitment to design excellence is evident in its collaborations with renowned designers and fashion houses. Collections such as Galactica by Antonio Aricò showcase futuristic forms suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings, while the Dream collection, inspired by gold bars, offers a luxurious aesthetic that appeals to upscale interiors. The Colletto coffee table, reminiscent of a folded sheet of paper, exemplifies altreforme's ability to transform aluminum into playful yet sophisticated forms. These collaborations not only enhance the brand's design portfolio but also ensure that each piece resonates with a sense of exclusivity and artistic merit.
Reliability is a cornerstone of altreforme's operations. The company's production facilities in Calolziocorte, Italy, are shared with the Fontana Group's automotive manufacturing, ensuring that each furniture piece benefits from state-of-the-art technology and stringent quality control processes. This industrial backbone guarantees that products meet the highest standards of craftsmanship and durability, making them suitable for both residential and commercial applications.
Business support from altreforme is tailored to meet the specific needs of professionals. The Sartoria service offers bespoke solutions, allowing clients to customize existing designs or develop entirely new pieces that align with their project's vision. This service encompasses a range of capabilities, from co-design and prototyping to advanced manufacturing techniques such as CNC milling and laser cutting. Such flexibility ensures that architects and designers can realize their creative concepts without compromise, backed by a team that understands the nuances of custom furniture production.
Investing in altreforme furniture is not merely a purchase but a strategic decision that adds value to any project or retail operation. The brand's emphasis on sustainability, utilizing 100% recyclable aluminum and eco-friendly production processes, aligns with the growing demand for environmentally responsible design solutions. Moreover, the distinctive aesthetic of altreforme pieces serves as a differentiator in competitive markets, offering clients unique products that stand out for their design and quality.
In summary, sourcing from altreforme offers professionals a combination of innovative design, reliable manufacturing, comprehensive business support, and sustainable practices. Whether for bespoke projects or curated retail selections, the brand provides furniture solutions that meet the highest standards of form and function, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking to elevate their design offerings.
Badges
altreforme Editor’s Choice Badge The Editor’s Choice Badge is awarded to manufacturers personally selected by our editorial team for their exceptional innovation, superior quality, and impactful design. This badge recognizes manufacturers that consistently deliver outstanding craftsmanship and set new benchmarks in the industry, earning the highest recommendation from experts
altreforme Top Design Badge The Top Design Badge is given to manufacturers for outstanding innovation, creativity, and originality in their design work, recognizing those who push the boundaries of aesthetics and functionality to set new trends in the industry
altreforme Top Quality Badge The Top Quality Badge is awarded to manufacturers who consistently uphold the highest standards of craftsmanship, material selection, and production processes, delivering products known for their exceptional durability, reliability, and precision
altreforme Eco-Friendly Badge The Eco-Friendly Badge is awarded to manufacturers that demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainable practices, including the use of environmentally responsible materials, energy-efficient production methods, and initiatives that reduce their overall environmental impact. This badge recognizes those leading the way toward a greener, more sustainable future in design and manufacturing
