Inspiration & Overview
If you are yet to discover Salina island, there is a delight unknown that awaits you. Raised starkly from beneath the Mediterranean Sea by volcanic activity then shaped and softened in a tumble of elements and flora for millennia, this perfect part of a small archipelago, a touch north of Sicily, is exquisitely crafted by nature. So, the inhabitants of this verdant jewel are fashioned in turn by their surroundings. Life is simple. Structure and form are defined by objectives. Texture and tone are but casual combinations of weathered wood, tousled vines, piled stone. And the ubiquitous net, so prized to deliver quicksilver shoals from daybreak crystal waters to gregarious sunset dining.
It is this little-known isle that spoke to Matteo Thun and Benedetto Fasciana when they sought inspiration for their latest Gloster collection. Their attention was drawn to elemental materials and forms of the locality, their interest piqued by a resourcefulness and sparing synonymous with Salina’s inhabitants; they eschewed accepted lines and traditional style as their concept developed.
Four teak poles mark the extremities of the Salina collection’s signature lounge chair. These are artfully connected by fiber wrapped frames infilled with a mesh that speaks of both vine and net in equal measure. The innovative outdoor fiber used to craft the internal panels is characterized by a natural texture, creating an open, woven composition that is both gentle and familiar.
Enclosed within, a teak base refined with stainless steel details is crowned with deeply inviting seat and scatter cushions. As further range components follow these cues, style and comfort are shared in balance across a sofa, corner units and chaise. The collection extends to a tessellating square coffee table and ottoman along with an additional smaller square ottoman and two options of round occasional table.
About the Designers
Matteo Thun, architect and designer, was born and raised in the bilingual German and Italian speaking region of South Tyrol, Italy. Following his studies with Oskar Kokoschka and Emilio Vedova at the Salzburg Academy he graduated with a degree in Architecture from the University in Florence. He co-founded the ‘Memphis’ group in Milan in 1981 with Ettore Sottsass and opened his own studio in Milan in 1984. He established Matteo Thun & Partners in 2001 - the studio’s designs are inspired by timeless simplicity and centered on the human scale. Encompassing a team of 70 interdisciplinary architects, interior, product and graphic designers, Matteo Thun works from micro to macro scales with a focus on the management of highly complex projects. The work prioritizes aesthetic durability, technological longevity, and the future lifespan of buildings and products. A profound respect for a project’s soul and a sensitive approach to the client’s individuality is key to all of Matteo Thun’s work.
Associate Director Benedetto Fasciana’s appreciation of craftsmanship and proportion as priority defines his approach to architecture and design. An architecture graduate of University of Ferrara, Benedetto’s expertise in interior design and product design was honed from his background in ceramic art and creating retail and exhibition spaces for world-renowned brands during his time as Art Director at White Design in Venice. Since joining Matteo Thun & Partners in 2014, Benedetto has been responsible for the creation of iconic furniture and lighting solutions that reflect his passion for artisanal craftmanship and the studio’s shared design values of simplicity, functionality and timelessness.
About Gloster
As life gets faster and more complex, the need for quality time and space - the freedom to be you - grows too. At Gloster opens doors to timelessly beautiful exteriors where your furniture sets the mood, just the way you want it to be. And Gloster takes the long view, using only the very best materials and techniques available. The aim is your pleasure - to be enjoyed in countless special moments outdoors.
Want more info or to see in person? info@mcgs.com
