Admiration for the Radiofonografo has spanned decades, drawing the attention of artists and cultural icons of every era. A tribute to the past, artist and designer Elena Salmistraro has reimagined the classic, with a special edition of sixty numbered pieces.
In 1965, Brionvega unveiled an object destined to change the history of design: the Radiofonografo, designed by brothers Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni. A stereo system cased in a revolutionary form, the Radiofonografo merged technical innovation with revolutionary aesthetics. The piece redefined the domestic listening experience and quickly became a symbol of style and art, exhibited in major contemporary art museums internationally.
Sixty years later, the Radiofonografo continues to be handcrafted in Italy in limited numbers, with the same care and respect that led to its success. To celebrate this milestone anniversary, a special limited edition launched in September 2025: sixty numbered pieces resulting from a collaboration with artist and designer Elena Salmistraro.
“I had the honour of working on an object that, still today, represents an unsurpassed example of design and ingenuity. My approach has always been one of deep respect for the original piece: a project that requires neither functional nor formal modifications, as it is perfect in its essence.”
- Elena SalmistraroFor the first time, the body of the object is dressed in a delicate shade of green. A symbolic colour evoking nature, renewal, and growth, this choice reflects a timeless ability to remain current across eras, telling the story of an object that has preserved its vitality after six decades.
“Green is a deeply ambivalent and vital colour. It evokes nature and hope. It is the colour of regeneration, and therefore perfect for an object that, while belonging to history, has the grace to remain eternally young. I chose a sophisticated hue, capable of blending discreetly into contemporary interiors, finding balance between nostalgia and innovation.”
Complementing this choice are the tobacco-finish details: buttons, knobs, speaker grilles, handles. These were originally finished in chrome, now recoloured to create a new warm and elegant chromatic harmony.
The metal base, once defined by the grooving and chrome details typical of the 1960s and 70s, is redesigned as a matte black, compact, monolithic volume. This choice gives the Radiofonografo greater visual solidity and a contemporary feel, balancing the chromatic and formal composition.
The turntable and smoked dust cover complete the upper section, creating a sense of lightness and transparency that elegantly contrasts with the more tactile base, reinforcing the overall visual balance.
In reimagining the Radiofonografo for the future, the project seeks harmony between memory and modernity, preserving the original design strength while looking towards its next chapter.