Clear solution
Anna Moldenhauer: You have been working with AXOR since 2001 and once said: "The true happiness for a professional is to meet extraordinary customers" – what is extraordinary about AXOR?
Antonio Citterio: The way we work together. AXOR really pays attention to the quality of the product, they engage in dialogue instead of just saying "I like it" or "I don't like it". For me, AXOR is more of a partner than a customer; the creative processes are not driven by what is currently in demand on the market.
What fascinates you about designing a detail such as a tap for small, high-quality bathrooms?
Antonio Citterio: Designing the details means having a vision for everything. A detail is not just a small solution. It is a vision of its own.
Your projects always start with the floor plan, with the location. What location did you have in mind when you designed "AXOR Citterio C"?
Antonio Citterio: When you think about architecture, you more or less try to understand how you can fit in there, how you can create the place for the building. In this case, my vision centred on the concept of a hotel.
It is said that you are an excellent problem solver. What problem did you solve when you designed the new tap?
Antonio Citterio: Being a problem solver means having information. For me, it is important to find the solution in synthesis and then in expression. When the focus is on expression, you are not looking for the solution to a question. You already have a form in mind and the necessity becomes a possible answer. For me, expression does not come first, the synthesis does.
You don't believe in revolutions – "I'm a conservative, I stand still while others move" is a quote from you. What are the advantages of this?
Antonio Citterio: I'm talking about typology. For me, being conservative only means manufacturing products if there is a reason for it, a need. I don't see designing something just to create something new as my profession.
Your fittings are small sculptures. What would your teacher in Cantu, who taught you how to make sculptures, say about "AXOR Citterio C"?
Antonio Citterio: I had a very good relationship with my teacher in Cantu, even though free expression is basically not my favourite thing. I prefer to solve problems.
What quality do you want to bring to small rooms with this design?
Antonio Citterio: "AXOR Citterio C" is a clear answer for a small room. It's what's needed. No more and no less.
