“I’m sorry I can’t meet you. It’s not a good time. Let’s talk after the Salone. It’s always a pleasure to meet Domus”. Rodolfo Dordoni spoke just as he drew – in a light, elegant, and above all very subtle manner. 

Observing his work, one might have perceived Rodolfo Dordoni as rational and aloof, giving off a seemingly cold impression at first glance. However, in reality, he was quite the opposite: a person fueled by a vital passion and energy, which lay concealed behind an outward restraint, tempered by a disciplined exercise of rigor.

He had a way of thinking, being, and doing that was reminiscent of the design maestros of the past, such as Magistretti and Castiglioni, and played a significant role in shaping the renowned “Milanese style”, which not only encapsulates the essence of Italian design but also mirrors the very soul of the city – a city that now fondly remembers and mourns him.

Dordoni embodied the quintessential Milanese spirit, even in his preference for staying out of the limelight, concealing gardens within courtyards, and keeping secrets hidden within apartments.

In addition to style, Dordoni also gave lessons in discretion, a characteristic of his designs that Domus has been talking about for years, in an open dialogue built up over time. It was an intelligent relationship, perhaps the quality Dordoni valued most in people and things.

This intelligence shines through in his works – in the lamps, chairs, ceramics, and sofas designed for numerous prestigious Made in Italy companies. The list would be long and at this moment, one might risk unintentionally omitting some. Each piece is distinct, yet they share a common thread: excellence.

Perhaps the most fitting aspect to recall about his career as a designer and architect, but above all, as an intellectual and creative mind, was his unwavering commitment to subtlety and refinement. Dordoni’s designs never clamored for attention; instead, they gracefully eschewed scripts, passing fads, and superficialities. He tirelessly sought the essence of form. Not the other way around.

Dordoni’s creations never sought to be protagonists of the space; rather, they chose to illuminate it with occasional, enigmatic rendezvous, and tranquil encounters. They allowed homes to take center stage, becoming protagonists in the extraordinary affair that constitutes everyday life.