Pathways of design

Hidden technology

The human side of technology

Reading time 2 min
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Behind the art of coffee brewing at home, there is a technological evolution that has enabled automatic and manual Espresso coffee machines, thanks to which we can achieve an excellent result in the cup at the touch of a button. 

What for us is a simple touch, entails the work of designers, engineers, technicians who created the machine by conceiving it for us and making it easy to use, functional and with an iconic design. 

The concept behind the expression 'hidden technology' is precisely this: the technology is there; however, we do not need to see it, it can be deduced from the result.  

Smeg is technology that furnishes, and behind the word furnishes lies all the sensitivity and attention paid to people, their needs, and the environment they live in. As a result of this approach, Smeg develops projects together with some of the greatest contemporary architects and designers.  

Matteo Bazzicalupo and Raffaella Mangiarotti from the deepdesign® studio have been collaborating with Smeg since 2011, the same year in which they showcased their designs at the Milan Triennale in the exhibition entitled 'L'Anima Sensibile delle Cose’ (The Sensitive Soul of Things), curated by Cristina Morozzi. 

 

"We showcased how technology can have a human aspect. The relationship with humans comes before technology in the service of technology."  

Raffaella Mangiarotti 

 

Prior to their collaboration with Smeg, the two designers created the washing machine with centripetal force, instead of centrifugal force, as it washes clothes as if they had been washed by hand. They invented the broom that bends: it bends so you won't have to bend any more. They designed the hairdryer that takes care of your hair and does not damage it.    

 

"Now the principle of care is already a touch more inside the vision of the industrial product, but in the past [the focus] was on performance." 

Raffaella Mangiarotti 

 

Matteo and Raffaella design small Smeg household appliances, giving them not only a functional but also a symbolic and aesthetic value. These are not robots invading the domestic space, but rather objects that live together with us, coming to life when we use them to make us a coffee, staying on the kitchen island to add a touch of style to the environment. 

 Smeg espresso machine

Colour, design and taste  

​​​​​The ECF01 is a compact manual espresso machine with an iconic design that brings the pleasure of the Italian bar experience into the comfort of your own home. 

Discover ECF01

Design at first sight  

Elegance is expressed through sinuous, minimal lines and matt colours, perfect in any environment to create a unique experience. BCC13 brews up to ten drinks including coffee, caffe latte and milk. 

Discover BCC13

INSIGHTS

The ways of coffee

Stories, trivia and inspiration to become a real coffee expert and prepare your favourite coffee professionally at home.

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COFFEE
The birth of a Made in Italy icon
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COFFEE
The origins of espresso machines and new daily habits
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DESIGN
The coffee bean - from the plant to roastin
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DESIGN
The art of brewing coffee at home
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DESIGN
A world of coffee
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COFFEE
Award-winning internationally designed coffee machines
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DESIGN
Italian espresso coffee: the coffee experience through our senses
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DESIGN
Coffee and milk: the perfect match
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COFFEE
Hidden technology
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COFFEE
Lines, Colours, Styles
PREPARE AND SAVOUR

The art of coffee in 11 recipes

Coffee drinks to prepare at home: alone or with company, every day or for a special occasion. From the classic to the most surprising, they spread the scent and aroma of coffee in your rooms.

GET INSPIRED
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CLASSIC RECIPE
From coffee beans to the true taste of espresso coffee
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GOURMET RECIPE
Coffee Affogato
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GOURMET RECIPE
Hot Ginger Coffee
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CLASSIC RECIPE
Latte Macchiato
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CLASSIC RECIPE
Flat White
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CLASSIC RECIPE
Filter Coffee
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GOURMET RECIPE
Matcha Latte
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CLASSIC RECIPE
Italian-style shaken iced coffee
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CLASSIC RECIPE
Marocchino Coffee
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GOURMET RECIPE
Hot Chocolate Mocha