Domande Frequenti

Who designed the Poltrona Frau Albero bookcase?

Albero was designed by Gianfranco Frattini, a Milanese architect and designer whose work spanned furniture, lighting, and interiors from the 1950s onward. Frattini was closely associated with the Neo-Liberty movement and collaborated with several of Italy's most significant postwar manufacturers.

Is the Albero freestanding or does it attach to the wall?

Albero is a floor-to-ceiling freestanding system designed to be placed centrally in a room rather than against a wall. Its 360-degree rotating mechanism is fundamental to this concept, allowing access and display from every side.

What wood is used in the Albero's structure?

The supporting structure is crafted from solid Canaletto walnut, a species of American black walnut historically favored in Italian furniture for its fine, consistent grain and warm, durable character.

Can the Albero shelves be adjusted or reconfigured?

Yes. The toothed uprights allow all twelve shelves to be repositioned at varying heights, accommodating different objects, books, or display arrangements as needs change over time.

What is the Neo-Liberty movement in Italian design?

Neo-Liberty was a current within Italian architecture and design of the late 1950s that drew on the decorative sensibility of early twentieth-century Liberty (Art Nouveau) while engaging with modernist construction. It was a reaction against the austerity of strict rationalism, favoring expressive form and craft detail, and several of its key figures, including Frattini, produced work that has proven remarkably durable.

Brand & Designer

Poltrona Frau
Poltrona Times Lounge

Poltrona Frau

Founded in 1912, one brand with three souls: handmade in Italy furnishings, custom solutions for public and private spaces, and luxury interiors for cars, aviation, and yachting.
Gianfranco Frattini
Tavolo Kyoto

Gianfranco Frattini

An Italian architect and designer known for refined modernism, masterful woodwork, and a timeless balance of elegance, function, and warmth.