Anytime you blend two opposing design languages, you run the risk of some sort of clash. But when it’s done right, you can get something spectacular. Rimowa, the German luggage brand known for its ribbed aluminum suitcases, has recently collaborated with Italian espresso machine icon La Marzocco on a beautiful new version of the latter’s Linea Mini home unit. While the flagship products from both brands provide remarkable utility and convenience, it’s their hallmark designs that one could argue have made them both household names.
One of the brands responsible for the massive growth of the upscale coffee house revolution in the ‘90s is La Marzocco, which helped make Italian-quality espresso and cappuccino more accessible for baristas with their Linea Classic, a dual-boiler machine that simplified the mechanics of drink-making. Some years later, the Linea Mini came out to bring that expertise to the home barista. Now, the home machine will get a new look with a stainless steel exterior featuring Rimowa’s signature grooved aluminum panels on the sides. These panels were made at the luggage firm’s factory in Cologne before getting assembled using a hand-bent method.
The stainless steel body was built in Florence, Italy, taking 40 hours of work per piece. It was then given aluminum knobs featuring monograms of both brands. Built to order, the espresso machine will also come with an aluminum brew paddle, a paddle cover, a performance touch steam wand, and a custom anodized aluminum portafilter.
Over the years, we’ve seen a lot of legendary worlds crossing over but few have been as symbiotic as this, at least at first discovery. Debuting at Milan Design Week starting April 15, the Rimowa x La Marzocco Linea Mini Espresso Machine will be made available to the public. Head to La Marzocco’s website to register your interest.
