A true design icon, the 9090 Espresso Maker by Richard Sapper is a groundbreaking piece in Alessi’s history. Originally designed in 1978, it was the first espresso maker ever produced by Alessi, earning multiple Compasso d’Oro awards and becoming the first Alessi product to be exhibited at the MoMA in New York.
Sapper approached the design with a desire to enhance functionality, creating a piece that was both sculptural and highly practical. The 9090 features an enlarged base for maximum heat distribution, an anti-drip spout, and a unique lever-locking system that allows effortless, one-handed opening. The result is a piece that is as innovative as it is timeless, perfect for those who appreciate refined design and exceptional espresso.
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Richard Sapper
Germany
Richard Sapper (1932–2015) was a German-born designer whose career masterfully bridged technical innovation and sculptural beauty. After moving to Milan in the 1950s, he worked with design legend Gio Ponti before establishing a long-standing partnership with Marco Zanuso. His work, known for its balance of functional precision and poetic detail, earned him eleven Compasso d’Oro awards—one of the highest honors in industrial design.
For Alessi, Sapper created some of the brand’s most iconic objects, including the 9090 espresso maker, which became the first Alessi product to win a Compasso d’Oro, and the 9091 melodic whistling kettle, a masterful fusion of sound and design. His La Cintura di Orione cookware collection showcases his dedication to elevating everyday kitchenware to an art form.
Sapper’s designs are housed in major museums worldwide, and his influence remains deeply embedded in the history of contemporary industrial design.
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