Testing the water: Venice canals inspire Acqua Alta

‘The scent and diffuser were inspired by the marks left when the water rises and falls in the [Venice] canals,’ Bortotto tells LS:N Global. ‘The essences are absorbed and diffused gradually through three ceramic biscuit cylinders. The composition takes its shape from the briccole – traditional poles used in the Venice lagoon to show the way to the boats.’

The city of Venice, and the colours and properties of the salty water that surrounds it, was the inspiration for the collection. Produced in collaboration with a local Murano glass specialist and a perfumer, the pieces include ambient fragrances and a diffuser, delicately dappled textiles and a rough textured rose pink marble LED lamp. 

The natural and chemical processes of erosion, tarnishing and oxidation are increasingly inspiring product designs. For more examples see our Sublime Materiality macro inspire.