Skip to content

Business • History • Media

Home Essays Design Is One

Observed|Essays

October 8, 2013

Design Is One

Two of the world’s most influential designers, Lella and Massimo Vignelli’s work covers such a broad spectrum that one could say they are known by everyone, even by those who don’t know their names.  Adhering to self-proclaimed motto, “If you can’t find it, design it,” their achievements in industrial and product design, graphic and publication design, corporate identity, architectural graphics, and exhibition, interior, and furniture design have earned worldwide respect and numerous international awards for over 40 years.
 
After Massimo brought the Helvetica typeface to America in 1965, he and Lella moved on to a diverse array of projects, including New York’s subway signage and maps; the interior of Saint Peter’s Church at Citicorp Center; Venini lamps; Heller dinnerware; furniture for Poltrona Frau; and branding for Knoll International, Bloomingdales, Saks Fifth Avenue, Ford and American Airlines.
 
Luminaries from the world of design – from DO founders Michael Bierut, and Jessica Helfand to architects Richard Meier and Peter Eisenman and graphic designer Milton Glaser,  – bring us into the Vignellis’ world, capturing their intelligence and creativity, as well as their humanity, warmth, and humor.