A singular form with a monolith’s silhouette
The Creso dining table, designed by Lella and Massimo Vignelli in 1988, embodies the rigorous geometric simplicity that distinguished the Vignellis’ vision. Its monolithic silhouette, defined by a single, powerful pedestal, merges classical proportion with contemporary clarity. Originally conceived during a prolific period in the designers’ careers, the Creso explores materials and proportions thoughtfully, often juxtaposing a solid travertine base with tops of marble or glass, and enhanced by metal finishes in its later reinterpretations. The subtle hues of the table draw inspiration from the encaustic colors of Venetian artist Francesco Guardi, linking the piece to a refined historical craft tradition.
Throughout their collaborative life, from their marriage in 1957 to their international acclaim, Lella and Massimo Vignelli pursued an interdisciplinary approach, encapsulated in Massimo’s principle that “design is one.” They seamlessly moved between graphic design, product development, furniture, and interior spaces, consistently guided by functional minimalism and precise aesthetics. Creso reflects these ideals: the table is not merely furniture but a sculptural statement, bridging past craftsmanship with modern design philosophy.
Revived in 2021 as part of Acerbis’s Remasters collection, Creso remains an enduring icon, demonstrating how the Vignellis’ vision transcends time and trends. Its lasting impact continues to inspire contemporary designers, affirming the Vignellis’ profound legacy in modern design.
The cylindrical base (Ø40 and Ø50 cm) is made with a steel tube, painted in gun-metal grey or orbital bronze, or clad with a brass-plated steel foil. Another variation is the matte Travertine, made from a single block (max Ø160cm size). An internal iron column supports the weight of the entire structure without negatively impacting the marble cladding.
Tabletop finishes include white Arabesque marble, black Marquinia, red Levanto, green Alpi, or matte Travertine, 20 mm thick, stone with a natural polished finish. The Travertine top is only paired with the base in the same finish.
TABLETOP Materials
BASE Materials
Lella and Massimo Vignelli are a husband-and wife team. They studied in Venice, Italy, and in 1960 established the Massimo and Lella Vignelli Office of Design and Architecture in Milan, working with graphics, products, furniture and interiors. In 1965 they founded Unimark International Corporation, and, in 1971, Vignelli Associates, with an office in New York and liaison offices in Paris and Milan. The Vignellis’ work has been awarded numerous prizes and exhibited several times in sector publications, in the United States and abroad. Several of his works are included in the permanent collections of several museums.