Gae Aulenti

Gae Aulenti (1927–2012) was a pioneering Italian architect and designer, celebrated for her innovative contributions to both modern and postmodern design. Beginning her career in the post-war reconstruction of Milan, Aulenti became one of the few prominent female architects of her time, advocating for the neo-liberty movement—a philosophy blending historical traditions with modern aesthetics. Her designs reflect a commitment to artistic freedom and interdisciplinary exploration. Aulenti's creations include iconic pieces like the Pipistrello lamp.

Aulenti is best known for transforming the Gare d'Orsay into the Musée d'Orsay in Paris, a groundbreaking example of adaptive reuse. Her innovative interior design preserved the station's Beaux-Arts features while creating a modern museum space. Recognised with honours like the Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana, Aulenti’s legacy endures in her ability to bridge art and architecture.

"I aim to create furniture that appears in a room as buildings on a skyline and reminds the viewer of the interaction between objects of design and architectural space." – Gae Aulenti