words Onur Baştürk 

It was thanks to Nomad Capri that we met Mirko Sala Tenna and Stefania Digregorio, the founders of Etereo Design. Mirko and Stefania were exhibiting their limited edition “Faraglioni” collection created for the Nilufar Gallery for the first time at Nomad Capri, and I was amazed at the design dining table that managed to reflect the magnificence of the sea and the Faraglioni cliffs with a wild delicateness. But Mirko and Stefania's work is not limited to ‘collectible design’ products. Their lives between Dubai and Milan are surrounded by multicultural, multi-layered and inspiring projects. 

When and how did you come together and set up Etereo? 

Our relationship began shortly after our training. We met in the studio where we work as freelancers. From the beginning, we had a strong bond, both professionally and personally. From a young age, we worked together on various projects in Milan. Until the need arised for an opportunity to progress independently and fully express our design vision... Etereo was born in 2017 in a place we never knew, in Dubai, which we now see as the center of our activities. We started by working day and night to create the brand in our dining room. Six years later, today we have a team of 24 people.

You do both ‘collectible design’ products and architectural projects together. Does the combination of the two make Etereo stronger? 

Our studio began as an architecture and interior design firm with strong expertise in the luxury sector. From the beginning, we have worked on high-profile projects that require attention to detail and a deep understanding of the client's needs. We are committed to creating spaces that combine elegance, functionality and sophistication. Our transition into collection design was a natural process. After our experience designing exclusive and luxurious environments, we developed a unique sensitivity to the quality of materials, craftsmanship and refined aesthetics. These same principles led us into the world of collection design, where we can apply our expertise and creativity to create unique and valuable pieces. 

What is Etereo's understanding of design?

For Etereo, the search for space, balance and beauty is essential in every project. Our design approach is also based on careful material selection and refined craftsmanship. We choose the best materials and advanced techniques to ensure quality, aesthetics and durability in every project. We work with trusted suppliers and craftsmen who share our passion for excellence and are able to provide high quality materials. We also explore new technologies and processing techniques that allow us to push the boundaries of design. Each project is an opportunity to innovate and experiment while maintaining a balance between tradition and modernity. We work closely with artisans who have a deep knowledge of traditional techniques and great skill in manipulating materials to achieve unique results.

You presented Carbon at Milan Design Week 2024 and Faraglioni at Nomad Capri. Both are inspired by different geographies. One is Africa, the other is the Mediterranean. Can you explain the design process of the two products? 

Inspired by the Faraglioni cliffs in Capri, the Faraglioni table was designed to bring the splendor of the sea into living spaces. This unique piece tells a story of contrast and harmony with its bronze feet imitating rocks and glass surface evoking the fluidity of the sea. We chose quality materials and Italian craftsmanship to express our vision of luxury design. The bronze was crafted by an artisan from Brianza. The glass was made in the best workshops in Venice. The Faraglioni table is a functional work of art that celebrates the beauty of nature and the excellence of Italian design.

The Carbon collection includes four versatile flat solutions: a low table, two coffee tables, a console and a large bench. Each piece is designed to meet a variety of environmental needs with different sizes and styles. Inspired by African tribal creations and local primitive arts, the collection combines modern aesthetics with concrete design philosophy. The collection, which consisted of solid wood, shiny bronze or a mixture of both, used local materials such as wood from the Valtellina Alps and precious alloys processed by Fonderia Artistica Campagner in Milan. While the surfaces exhibit a living texture reminiscent of arid soil and volcanic energy, the carbonization process gives a different touch effect.