Patricia Urquiola

Patricia Urquiola, born in Oviedo, Spain, in 1961, is a leading figure in contemporary architecture and industrial design. Based in Milan, she is recognized for a style that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, often emphasizing tactile textures and emotional connection. She studied architecture at the Polytechnic University of Madrid and later at the Polytechnic University of Milan, where she graduated in 1989. Her career was deeply shaped by her mentor, Achille Castiglioni, who encouraged her to focus on the objects that inhabit a space as much as the structure itself.

After working as a lecturer alongside Castiglioni and leading product development for De Padova, she founded Studio Urquiola in 2001. Her studio has since become a powerhouse of creativity, collaborating with elite brands like Moroso, B&B Italia, Mutina, and Kartell. In 2015, she took on the prestigious role of Art Director for Cassina, where she bridges the brand's historic legacy with forward-thinking innovation.

Her architectural portfolio is equally distinguished, featuring projects such as the Mandarin Oriental in Barcelona and the Il Sereno Hotel in Lake Como. Her work frequently explores sustainability and circularity, utilizing bio-materials and recyclable components. Urquiola has received numerous accolades, including the Gold Medal of Merit in the Fine Arts from the Spanish government, and her designs are held in the permanent collections of the MoMA and the Victoria & Albert Museum.