In memory of Rodolfo Dordoni

Rodolfo Dordoni, who passed away on August 1 last year, was a central figure in Milan’s design scene, shaping the history of contemporary Italian design since the early 1980s. The essence of this history lies not only in ideas and visions but also in the spirits and characters of the people who built it, capable of inspiring, and fostering strong bonds of affection. Among these influential figures was Enrico Astori, who, along with his sister Antonia and his wife Adelaide Acerbi, co-founded the legendary Driade brand, “an ark that collects the beauties of the world while waiting for the flood”. Alongside Dordoni, they formed a dynamic nexus of exchanges and inspirations, enriching the lives of those involved and creating something new for others. Elisa Astori, architect and professor at the Politecnico di Milano, who, together with her sister Elena, keeps the original spirit of Driade alive, shares with us precious memories of Dordoni and reflects on the world that unites in remembering him.

You have been a constant presence in my life. In my early years, I knew you as a close friend of my father, Enrico, and I vividly remember those gatherings, invitations, lunches, and parties, where your love of beauty, which you shared with the host, shone through. As time went on, and I began teaching at the School of Design at Politecnico di Milano, our relationship deepened, and I had the privilege of experiencing your remarkable generosity, proverbial intelligence, and sensitivity. I would visit you in your studio with the master’s students, and your warm reception always made us feel like the most welcome and important guests of all. You would captivate a group of young designers from around the world with tales of your work, and they would eagerly seek out details and motivations behind your creations. Your explanations were delivered with extraordinary clarity and an unparalleled generosity of time, leaving them consistently amazed. We would leave your studio as if we had received not only a great design lesson, but also a warm embrace. That magic lingered within us for a long time and you made us feel like the most cherished of friends. It must have been nice for you to feel loved and acknowledged for both the excellence of your work and your persona. I think Gordon (Guillaumier Ed.) brought you a constant wave of joy that filled your life with all the ingredients one could ever wish for. Thinking of you brings a smile to my face, and my heart feels tenderly caressed. Elisa Astori

Opening image: Courtesy Driade