The Dwell 24: Ries

Argentinian architects and designers Marcos Altgelt and Tasio Picollo say working in their country can be challenging. "We have fewer resources and an unstable economy, and we are constantly fighting to get things done," says Altgelt, who launched Ries with Picollo in 2016.

They quickly gained attention with a collection of lightweight metal chairs, shelving, and tables in spare geometric shapes. In an effort to explore a more playful approach to form, the pair collaborated with an Argentinian factory that makes motorcycle parts. The result was the Tori stool, made from cast aluminum.

This kind of collaboration, Altgelt says, supports local manufacturers at risk of dying out in the face of globalization and increases the appreciation of Argentinian expertise and craft.

Read the full Q&A with Marcos Altgelt and Tasio Picollo below.

Hometown: Buenos Aires, Argentina

Describe what you make in 140 characters. We design and make furniture. We like to think that our work floats somewhere in between the technical and the experimental.

What’s the last thing you designed? A restaurant.

Do you have a daily creative ritual? Not really. Every day is different.

How do you procrastinate? Online shopping.

What everyday object would you like to redesign? Why? There's no need to redesign anything that already exists but we really like to design chairs. Chairs are fun.

Who are your heroes (in design, in life, in both)? Our families.

What skill would you most like to learn? To play the piano.

What is your most treasured possession? My vinyl record collection.

What’s your earliest memory of an encounter with design? Being aware of architecture in general.

What contemporary design trend do you despise? We don't follow trends, but we definitely don't like the "pink and arches" interiors.

Finish this statement: All design should... improve life in any way.

What’s in your dream house? A tree, a pool, and big table.

How can the design world be more inclusive? Pretty obvious to state, but letting BIPOC and female people into important galleries, shows, etc.

What do you wish non-designers understood about the design industry? That it is a pretty small world with some great people.

You can learn more about Ries on their Instagram.

View the 2022 Dwell 24!