For our latest interview, we had the pleasure to talk with Alex Pegoraro, founder of One To One, a brand that’s been making waves with its innovative and sustainable approach to design. Alex shared insights on the company’s industrial roots, the passion required to drive a project like this forward, and how staying true to the essence of an idea is key in today’s ever-evolving design landscape.
The brand truly came to life with the launch of the OTO Chair, designed by Alessandro Stabile. It represents a pinnacle of sustainability, from its initial concept to its industrialization and distribution. What started as a chance idea soon became a perfect example of how innovative thinking can drive smarter, more environmentally conscious solutions.
The OTO Chair is more than just a beautifully designed piece of furniture; it’s a statement and a benchmark for those who believe that combining design, process, and materials thoughtfully is essential for creating products that address today’s needs. While there are countless chairs in the world, this one stands out by showing that even in a product category often seen as difficult to innovate, a holistic approach can turn it into a significant testing ground—and, most importantly, provide a truly groundbreaking solution.
Who is behind One To One? Who are the founders and what is their background?
Alex Pegoraro:
“One To One began as both a “challenge” and a “promise” with Alessandro Stabile in 2022. Metalseat, the company behind OTO, saw the project and, after discussions with the designers, quickly decided to move forward with the engineering, tooling, and all the necessary steps. From that point on, we embarked on a journey that has continued without pause.”
Gathering information from your website, it is evident that the main innovation lies in the process. How did you come to innovate on this front? What steps were crucial?
Alex Pegoraro:
“As a company rooted in metalworking and other industrial processes, the “industrial aspects” form the foundation of every project we undertake. In this case, our objective was to eliminate every possible excess. Personally, I was particularly captivated by the precision involved in the alignment and assembly of the rear legs.”
Who are the key players that need to be involved in initiatives like yours?
Alex Pegoraro:
“A project like this requires passionate individuals at the helm. You need to engage people from diverse industries, such as those who work on products like coffee machines or cleaning tools, to bring fresh perspectives. To innovate in areas like fastening techniques or weight reduction, it’s essential to think outside the box.”
The entire design industry is striving to become more sustainable. Do you believe that the production principles you are adopting can be implemented in established companies?
Alex Pegoraro:
“I believe sustainability is more of a mindset, something that can be integrated into your everyday approach. While large companies can certainly address these issues, I find it’s often easier for smaller companies like ours. The more people you need to convince, the greater the effort required. Ultimately, it’s all about mentality, much like any significant change or revolution.”
The first project you completed is the OTO Chair. How did the idea come about and how long did its development take, from the initial concept to production?
Alex Pegoraro:
“As mentioned, it all began with a casual coffee and conversation with Alessandro (Stabile), where we were discussing completely unrelated topics. During our chat, he brought up a project he had been working on and advocating for years, which immediately caught my interest. A few days later, while reflecting on sustainability and reading my daughter a bedtime story about ocean pollution, I realized we could make a difference. That moment sparked the beginning of our collaboration.”
You perfectly exemplify the ‘less is more’ concept, which is expressed in many aspects of your initiative. Looking at today’s furniture design landscape, which elements would you eliminate or reduce if you had a magic wand?
Alex Pegoraro:
“I believe a good idea doesn’t always need to fit into a rigid framework, and each era has its own defining characteristics. It’s challenging to judge or offer advice to other designers or brands. What truly matters is staying true to the core identity and preserving the essence of the idea.”
Which product categories, from your perspective, can adopt the same approach you had with the OTO Chair, and thus express your philosophy?
Alex Pegoraro:
“Personally, I would love something in the fashion district or in the apparels.”
Lastly, given the success you’ve had with the first project, what will be your next step?
Alex Pegoraro:
“That is a surprise… but something is coming.”
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https://designwanted.com/one-to-one-oto-chair-sustainable-design/
