d+a | Issue 115 • Apr/May 2020

39 S et among vineyards in the idyllic hills of Tuscany, La Manufacture is a new leather manufacturing facility in Radda in Chianti for French maison Celine. The entire process of creating the brand’s refined handbags and accessories takes place inside the factory – from the industrialisation of materials, to the careful cutting of leather and meticulous assembly of each designer product. Inspired by “transparencies, glass, glass, glass, and the great view”, architects Fabio Barluzzi and Barbara Ponticelli of MetroOffice Architetti have designed a modern production facility that inspires its employees and artisans with panoramic views of the Chianti countryside. La Manufacture’s suspended façade of glass bricks creates a distinct visual identity with a polished, textured finish, while providing transparency, shade and reflection. This kaleidoscope of grey glass connects deeply with the natural landscape, changing colour throughout the day and reflecting the rich palette of the seasons. 1