Alessi Menhir: an unexpected ritual
The new Menhir espresso coffee maker, designed by Michael Anastassiades, celebrates one of the most important modern day rituals; that of making coffee. By unexpectedly embracing a key object of the Italian kitchen, Menhir represents a form with great emblematic presence, bringing an expressive power to the most iconic tool used for coffee preparation.
Menhir’s design has been inspired by historical monoliths or ‘long stones’ that could once be found carefully positioned in landscapes, who’s purpose remains speculative but are believed to have been associated with spiritual ceremonies and other rituals.
The hexagonal shape and polished steel finish creates a series of mirrors that reflect the surroundings in which the object is placed, bringing poetry and reminiscence into everyday moments.
Menhir’s design has been inspired by historical monoliths or ‘long stones’ that could once be found carefully positioned in landscapes, who’s purpose remains speculative but are believed to have been associated with spiritual ceremonies and other rituals.
Michael Anastassiades
Michael Anastassiades grew up in Cyprus and studied engineering and design in London, where he opened his studio in 1994. His designs include industrial products, craft based objects, and experiments he pursues on his own, taking inspiration from art and different creative fields. His execution is guided by poetically interpreted technology, materials and functions. He has received numerous awards, including a Compasso d’Oro and his work is found in the permanent collections of important international museums such as the MoMA in New York and the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.
Michael Anastassiades grew up in Cyprus and studied engineering and design in London, where he opened his studio in 1994. His designs include industrial products, craft based objects, and experiments he pursues on his own, taking inspiration from art and different creative fields. His execution is guided by poetically interpreted technology, materials and functions. He has received numerous awards, including a Compasso d’Oro and his work is found in the permanent collections of important international museums such as the MoMA in New York and the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.
