OBJECTS II: Sunnei’s Second Collection of Homegoods

By Julie Klein

“Objects II” collection on display at Sunnei's Milan showroom. Photography by Nicolò Panzeri.
“Objects II” collection on display at Sunnei's Milan showroom. Photography by Nicolò Panzeri.

Murano glass dildos, “dirty” doormats, and a candle in the shape of Milan’s iconic Torre Velasca — these are just a few of the 20-something objects that comprise the new collection of non-fashion items by the Milan-based brand Sunnei. Launched in 2015 by Loris Messina and Simone Rizzo, Sunnei is known for its eclectic collections for all genders. Bright colors, bold stripes, non-constricting silhouettes, and a general lighthearted attitude are some of Sunnei’s signatures — even the name is a phonetic pun on the Italian pronunciation of “sunny.” At the peak of the pandemic in 2020, Messina and Rizzo decided to translate their sartorial language into homewares. They launched their first collection, simply called “Objects,” in May 2021, and it was such a success that the duo decided to follow it up with a second one. For “Objects II” they not only perfected and expanded upon Sunnei staples — Murano drinking glasses, ceramic dinnerware, blankets, and pillows — but they also added some unexpected touches, like a special edition of Matter Made’s Champ stools in vibrant green and yellow, a Swiss exercise ball (by the artist Ben Orkin), and a doormat with “muddy” footprints woven into it. The new collection is displayed in Sunnei’s Milan showroom, Palazzina Sunnei, a long diagonal white plinth with a lightbox that echoes the dramatic runway the brand created in collaboration with 2050+ for their Spring/Summer 2022 show. Perhaps the most exciting pieces on the mini runway are the small assortment of cheeky “Murano pleasure objects.” Even as they venture into the sex toy market with glass handblown by skilled artisans on the Venetian island of Murano, Sunnei maintains its dedication to homegrown quality and elegance.