It Shouldn’t Work. But Somehow, It’s Perfect.
July 19, 2025
Source: Mutual Art
I was in a quaint cabin-like living room—wood paneling, warmish lighting, that funky smell of vintage books and furniture—and I see this odd little table. Round top. Three skinny legs. A single vertical “handle” sticking up like a bird stretching its neck.
I had to ask: “What is that thing?”
It’s the Franco Albini Cicognino side table designed in 1954. And it sparked a mild obsession in me that has lasted ever since.
Cicognino: “Little Stork”
Cicognino means “little stork” in Italian. The tall, angled handle is the neck. Or the beak. Either way, it looks like a bird in a mid step. And that design detail was intentional. Albini designed the handle so the table could be picked up and moved with one hand. As functional as it is fun.
That detail is why it stuck with me. This isn’t just an artsy flourish. It is a piece of furniture that is meant to be used.
Form and Function
Franco Albini, the designer, was known for combining craftsmanship with a modernist simplicity. He wasn’t about the razzle-dazzle. He was about intuitiveness and thoughtfulness. The Cicognino side table is a great example—lightweight, balanced and sculptural. The raised edge on the table top keeps things from sliding off. The three legs keep it stable even on uneven floors. Very simple. Not boring.
Built Solid
Craftsmen originally made most pieces from walnut or mahogany. Real wood. Real joinery. No cutting corners. The one I saw had been around for several decades and it was still looking great. If anything, the wear just made it cooler.
It is about 24 inches tall—ideal height for a chair-side table. Big enough for a drink, a book, your phone. Small enough to fit anywhere.
Still Being Made
Cassina, the high-end Italian furniture company, still makes it. If you are after a new one, you can get it straight from the source. If you are into something vintage? Even better! They show up in design auctions and mid-century dealers from time to time. And if you find one out in the wild—good for you.
Why it Works
This table has presence. It doesn’t scream look at me, but people notice it. It is the kind of piece that design lovers start to get excited about. Quietly iconic. Understated, but clever.
The Franco Albini Cicognino side table fits in to any room and does it without any effort. And the backstory makes it more than just furniture. It is a little piece of design history.
If you ever see one, stop and take a look. It might just be the most charming little table you come across.