Memphis design at the dining table: the wild geometry of the 80s is back
9.6.2025
Translation: machine translated
With the new "Memphis Collection", Villeroy & Boch is picking up on one of the most influential design movements of the 20th century and transforming it into contemporary dinnerware. It is now available in our shop.
The new collection from Villeroy & Boch is somewhere between a nostalgic homage and a modern statement. Anyone interested in design will immediately recognise the influence of Memphis design from the 80s. For example, the espresso cup and the matching saucer.
What was Memphis after all?
The Milan School of Design, founded by Ettore Sottsass in Milan in 1981, radically turned away from functional principles and revolutionised modern design at the time. The Memphis Group focused on explosive colour combinations and wild geometry. This was intended to provoke and did so. Today, the products of the design rebels are milestones in design. These references to geometry can also be clearly seen in the vases and bowls from Villeroy & Boch.
Wild look with solid workmanship
While many products from the Memphis designers in the 1980s were deliberately created from inexpensive materials, Villeroy & Boch relies on «Premium Porcelain made in Germany». According to the manufacturer, the crockery is dishwasher-safe and microwave-safe.
The collection comprises 14 items. The characteristic black and white scheme runs through the entire line and makes each piece look like a small work of art. Whether as a deliberate accent or as a complete service on the table, the Memphis collection will delight people who appreciate postmodern geometry and want to surprise their guests with unconventional design.
Galaxus says:
I am fascinated by the tension that arises from the design inspired by the Memphis Group and the tableware culture that Villeroy & Boch stands for. After all, the Memphis designers wanted to provoke traditional manufacturers. The design concept still seems fresh and exciting to me 40 years later.
Header image: Villeroy & Boch
Hamburg local, bookworm, and ice hockey fan. Dad and granddad. Constantly tinkering around with my smart home setup. I love DIY, the outdoors, fashion, and cosmetics.
Home + Kitchen
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