Francesco Messina creates sculptural collectible furniture that merges natural materials like volcanic stone, alabaster, brass and fossil wood with contemporary Italian design. His work explores themes of memory, materiality, and innovation, resulting in collections such as Glacies, Mineralia, Fossilia, Re-plastic, and De-Architectura. Each piece invites reflection on sustainability and the emotional resonance of functional art.
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"To remain true to the inspiration behind each project and express it in the best way possible, I seek out authentic materials."
Born in Pisa, Francesco Maria Messina began his path in design at 15. He studied in Paris and trained at the École Spéciale d'Architecture, later earning a master’s degree from the Confluence Institute in Lyon in 2015. His design journey took shape through global experiences—from New Orleans to Cameroon to Mauritius—where he found his creative voice.
In 2018, he co-founded Cypraea, a luxury furniture brand based in Mauritius that quickly gained international recognition. Messina’s work has since been featured in major exhibitions around the world, establishing him as a prominent figure in collectible design.
In 2020, he returned to Tuscany and opened his own studio, where he explores the relationship between nature, history, and innovation. His pieces combine rare materials with experimental techniques, always handcrafted in Tuscany to ensure uniqueness and value.
His latest work includes a lamp inspired by the Plinio table, continuing his habit of pushing boundaries between art and utility.
Messina has exhibited at Milan Design Week, Venice Design Biennial, Dubai Design Week, London Collect, Arte in Nuvola in Rome, Edit Napoli, and Lake Como Design.
