Conceived in the late 1950s as a floor-to-ceiling free-standing bookcase, “Albero” was designed for use in interior settings rather than for serial production.
The “Albero” is formally associated with the Neoliberty period and, in terms of product type, to the floor-to-ceiling bookcase systems that were popular throughout the 50s and 60s. Designed by Frattini, the structure stands out both for its complex cabinet work and for its sculpted nature, acting as the centrepiece of a room.

Supporting frame in solid Canaletto walnut veneer with special rack and pinion joint and shelves in MDF with Canaletto veneer. Iron caps, on the ceiling and ground, finished with textured, wrinkled-effect black paint. A metal “cup” is attached to the ceiling inside which is inserted a steel anchor bolt with adjustable metal ferrules. On the ground it is held in place by an anti-slip rubber foot. The system has a 360° swivel mechanism. Any number of shelves from 8 to 12 can be fitted thanks to the holes in the uprights.

After the huge success of the re-release of the freestanding Albero bookcase, a little-known yet very fascinating and masterful piece created by Gianfranco Frattini in the late 1950s, Poltrona Frau is launching the Albero Limited Edition in olive wood.Each bookcase features the designer’s signature, the Poltrona Frau logo, the caption “Limited Edition” and laser-engraved numbering from 01|55 to 55|55 on the lower part of the frame.

Albero has been mentioned in “The Top 10 Moments at Milan Design Week” of The New Tork Times.

Download hier het product sheet van de Albero.