A Legacy of Innovation and Tradition
Florence‘s renowned Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, one of the world’s oldest pharmacies, has appointed the Italian design duo Formafantasma as its new creative directors. The studio founded by Andrea Trimarchi and Simone Farresin will focus on preserving and advancing the rich history of this distinguished institution, established in 1221 by Dominican friars.
Their responsibility includes product development, packaging design, communication strategies, and enhancing retail environments while respecting and building on the pharmacy’s historical foundation.
Consider how elements of historical significance can influence architectural designs in places like Santa Maria Novella with Nanjing Office’s historic site revamp for insights into blending heritage and innovation.
Exploring Santa Maria Novella
“Our intention is not to redefine Santa Maria Novella through a new image, but to build from what already exists,” said Formafantasma. The studio aims to explore the apothecary’s deep-rooted traditions, which include its role as a supplier to the Medici court and its evolution into a famed perfumery, to ensure coherence across its offerings.
Preserving an Eight-Century Heritage
Simplicity is key, as the institution’s reputation is not merely anchored in its age but in its rich catalog of medicinal herbs and carefully crafted fragrances. Striving to maintain its historical essence, Formafantasma will use its expertise in material research and sustainable practices to guide the institution forward.
The design studio will act as custodians, preserving the pharmacy’s vast repository of ingredients, formulations, and craft techniques while exploring how these elements can continue to progress. This guardianship is central to maintaining the heritage of the Officina.
The interplay of traditional craft and modern design is exemplified in the fusion of Swedish and Japanese crafts, highlighting the benefits of blending diverse cultural techniques.
Formafantasma’s Broader Influence
This role aligns with Formafantasma’s interest in material legacies, as seen in their work on industrial and natural resources. Their involvement with London’s Serpentine Galleries as ecology advisors further signifies their commitment to sustainable innovation.
“The establishment is not simply defined by its longevity, but by the accumulation and transmission of knowledge across generations,” explained Formafantasma, encapsulating their mission to craft a future as storied as its past.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
Who are the new creative directors of Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella?
The new creative directors are the Italian design duo Formafantasma, which consists of Andrea Trimarchi and Simone Farresin.
What is Formafantasma’s intention for Santa Maria Novella?
Formafantasma’s intention is not to redefine Santa Maria Novella through a new image, but to build from what already exists while preserving and advancing its rich history.
How will Formafantasma maintain Santa Maria Novella’s heritage?
Formafantasma plans to maintain Santa Maria Novella’s heritage by focusing on material research and sustainable practices, acting as custodians of the pharmacy’s ingredients, formulations, and craft techniques.