Modular Storage Units by Bonetto for Artemide 1970s

• item. storage units
• designer. rodolfo bonetto
• maker. artemide
• model. incubo
• period. 1970s
• country. italy
• material. pressed cardboard, plastic
• color. black
• dimensions (cm). single unit: 47 × 38 × 38 cm (height × width × depth). stacked pair: 90 × 38 × 38 cm
• conditions. good vintage conditions. minor internal deformations are present exclusively along the folded front edge of the cardboard, where the material is bent twice to shape the opening. these irregularities are not visible when the units are in use and do not affect structure or appearance. the painted cardboard surfaces show abrasions, scuffs, and age-related wear, consistent with the nature of the material. the plastic bases are intact, clean and well preserved, with surface scratches, discoloration and minor stains, but no cracks or structural damage.
• art. # 1776

Rare and visually striking, these modular storage units were designed by Rodolfo Bonetto for Artemide Milano in the early 1970s. Known as “Incubo Quadro,” the system embodies the radical energy of Italian design during that period, balancing modular function with sculptural form.

Each unit is composed of a rigid black plastic top and base, engineered for safe vertical stacking, and a lightweight pressed cardboard body finished in matte black. This use of cardboard as a structural material was revolutionary for the time, offering both strength and a bold statement on industrial minimalism.

These modular storage units can function as nightstands, bookshelves, side tables, or freestanding sculptural elements. Whether placed singly or stacked, they bring a rare mix of utility and character to any modernist, Space Age, or industrial interior. Marked on the underside with full Artemide and Bonetto details, they’re as collectible as they are practical.