Design Is One – The Vignellis

„If you can’t find it, design it” is the motto of the Vignellis, whose renowned work ranges ”from the spoon to the city.” The film by Kathy Brew and Robert Guerre provides insight into the Vignelli world, documenting their intelligence and creativity, as well as their humanity, warmth, and humor.

Born Italians, Lella and Massimo Vignelli are among the most influential designers in the world. Their work covers a wide range of areas, making it fair to say that the Vignellis are known to everyone, even those who don't know their names. Throughout their careers, their motto has been: “If you can't find it, design it.” Their achievements in industrial and product design, graphic and publishing design, corporate identity programs, architectural graphics, exhibition, interior, and furniture design have earned them global respect and numerous national and international awards over more than 40 years.

In 1965, Massimo brought the Helvetica typeface to the U.S. Significant projects include: signage and maps for the New York subway; the interior of St. Peter's Church in the Citicorp Center; Venini lamps; Heller tableware; furniture for Poltrona Frau; and identity programs for Knoll International, Bloomingdale's, Saks Fifth Avenue, and American Airlines.

The Vignellis continue to mentor other designers. Their archive is housed in a new building at the Rochester Institute of Technology. Many from the design world - from architects Richard Meier and Peter Eisenman to graphic designers Milton Glaser, Michael Bierut, and Jessica Helfand, among others - speak about the Vignelli's work and share anecdotes. The film takes us into the work and everyday moments of the Vignelli world, capturing their intelligence and creativity, as well as their humanity, warmth, and humor.