The Rhythm of Valextra

On the occasion of Salone del Mobile 2023, Valextra is proud to present The Rhythm of Valextra, a kinetic exploration of our foundations in engineering beauty, realised through the vision of the London-based design duo Isabel + Helen.

Valextra’s distinctive approach to combining function with beauty has been present at every step of our creation process since 1937, when our engineer founder first conceived Valextra. Tasked with taking inspiration from the tools, techniques, and construction process that have culminated in eight decades of our iconic leather goods, Isabel + Helen has conjured an animated sculptural installation that fetes the space between spontaneity and sobriety in which Valextra thrives.

Isabel + Helen’s applauded exploration of movement and mechanisms comes to life in a dynamic exhibition of Valextra’s time-honed devices. From the brushes used to hand paint our signature black lacquered Costa edging and the scissors that cut the patterns of our multidimensional Millepunte calf skin, to our patented twist-lock clasp that resides on our Iside handbag, the story station recontextualizes our tools and techniques which are proudly preserved.

Valextra’s first boutique on Piazza San Babila famously housed our workshop on site, facilitating our immediate response to the needs and demands of the passing clientele observed through its iconic curved windows. For Salone del Mobile 2023, our celebration of process and product once again brings the tools of the atelier back into our Milan flagship, serving as a reminder of our central pillar; the Present Continuous, which defines Valextra’s enduring relevance and desirability. Mirroring Valextra’s commitment to urban craft, Isabel + Helen’s installation embodies the designed fluidity that informs the function and attitude of all our leather goods. The Rhythm of Valextra is at once an exhibit and multi-sensory experience that celebrates both the exquisite final product and impeccable process.