Extraordinary 5-seat modular sofa designed by Alessandro Mazzoni Delle Stelle and Gianfranco Gualtierotti for Giovannetti in 1976.
Created in 1976 by a group of very young designers, this project introduced a small-scale yet highly innovative system based on exceptional modularity, using steel profiles as the load-bearing structure.
The concept was developed to ensure maximum flexibility, allowing the sofa to be assembled and reassembled freely in order to redefine relational spaces; in fact, the sofa can be completely dismantled and reconfigured at will.
Upholstered in black vegan leather, it is in excellent condition despite being almost 50 years old.
A very rare piece produced by one of the companies that most profoundly shaped the history of design, notably with iconic models such as the Anfibio and Bazaar sofas, both included in the permanent collections of the world’s most important museums.
Currently the only example available on the market and a true collector’s piece, with production confirmed by the manufacturer.
Published in Domus no. 634, December 1982, double-page spread pp. 13–14.
Product Name: Minni Sofa by A. Mazzoni Delle Stelle and G. Gualtierotti for Giovannetti
Designer: Alessandro Mazzoni Delle Stelle and Gianfranco Gualtierotti
Year of Design: 1976
Style: 1970s Italian design, with a strong focus on modularity and innovation
Main Materials: Steel structure, black vegan leather upholstery
Distinctive Design: Fully modular sofa that can be dismantled and reassembled at will, characterized by steel profiles that allow exceptional flexibility in spatial composition
Dimensions: Corner configuration: 190 × 190 cm, height 82 cm | 4-seat configuration: 250 × 70 cm, height 82 cm
Comfort: High, thanks to the modular system that allows the sofa to adapt to different spatial and relational needs
Typical Use: Sofa for residential spaces or design-focused interiors, ideal for living areas or high-end lounges
Design Icon: Created by Giovannetti, an iconic Italian company renowned for historic pieces such as the Anfibio and Bazaar sofas, included in major international museum collections
Versatility: Very high, thanks to the modular system that allows the layout to be changed according to needs
Current Design Condition: Excellent condition considering its nearly 50-year age, with well-preserved vegan leather
Additional Notes: Rare and collectible piece, with production confirmed by the manufacturer. Published in Domus issue 634, December 1982, pages 13–14
Giovannetti is an Italian furniture company founded in 1966, renowned for its strong innovative spirit and its significant contribution to contemporary design. The company distinguished itself through the creation of unique and often experimental furniture, combining creativity and functionality in a way that gained international recognition.
One of Giovannetti’s defining characteristics is its commitment to collaborating with both emerging and established designers, such as Alessandro Becchi, Gianfranco Gualtierotti and Alessandro Mazzoni Delle Stelle. These designers helped the company develop modular and versatile solutions that reflect the free-spirited and playful nature of Italian design in the 1960s and 1970s.
Among Giovannetti’s most famous creations is the Anfibio sofa by Alessandro Becchi, designed in 1971—an icon of design that transforms from a sofa into a bed and is now exhibited in museums such as MoMA in New York and the Centre Pompidou in Paris. This piece perfectly embodies Giovannetti’s philosophy: creating multifunctional furniture that challenges conventions.
In addition to the Anfibio, the company produced other historic pieces such as the Bazaar sofa, further cementing Giovannetti’s reputation as a leader in experimental and contemporary design. These products are known for their bold lines, innovative use of materials, and modular approach, responding to the evolving need for flexible living spaces.
Over the years, Giovannetti has maintained a strong artisanal identity, combining traditional craftsmanship with advanced technologies to create high-quality furniture that is both practical and visually striking.
The company remains a key reference point in Italian design, producing pieces that go beyond mere function, transforming furniture into art and reflecting the evolution of taste and style.