Ilmari Tapiovaara for La Permanente Mobili Cantù Bookcase in Teak and Walnut

IImari Tapiovaara for Esposizione Permanente Mobili Cantù, bookcase, teak, walnut veneer, Italy, 1957

This impressive bookcase, crafted in teak and walnut, was submitted to the Selettiva International Furniture Competition in Cantù, Italy, in September 1957. Measuring 485 cm / 190.94 in., its monumental scale enhances its striking presence. The clean, modern lines frame three spacious columns, ideal for displaying objects. Nine walnut-veneered sliding panels allow the configuration to be customized to personal preference, while the interplay of teak and light walnut creates a lively yet harmonious contrast. At the competition, Tapiovaara was awarded the Secondo Premio ex-aequo in the “Living Environment” category, as determined by a distinguished jury that included Carlo Mollino.

Ilmari Tapiovaara (1914-1999) was a distinguished Finnish designer, initially trained as an interior designer. During World War II, Tapiovaara's early career involved designing equipment for the Finnish army. This experience familiarized him with the use of basic, readily available materials, such as local woods, and techniques that did not rely on nails or screws. After the war, Tapiovaara, together with his wife, founded their own design practice. He became renowned for his innovative and functional designs, securing numerous assignments from educational institutions, including schools and universities. His work is celebrated for its simplicity, practicality, and the seamless integration of form and function, which left a lasting impact on Finnish design and beyond.