Paolo Pininfarina’s Turin
Published on 30 October 2019
He comes from one of the most iconic automotive design dynasties, and Turin is the place his family has always called home. He is also President of Exclusive Brands Torino, which celebrates the very best of Piedmontese craftsmanship.
How long have you been living in Turin?
Turin’s been my home since the year I was born, 1958.
Where would you say is the ultimate spot to get a real feel for the city?
Most definitely Piazza Carignano, one of the smaller squares, which is rather understated but nonetheless extremely elegant; and Palazzo Carignano, designed by Guarino Guarini in 1685, which served as the seat of the very first Italian Parliament and is an outstanding architectural masterpiece built in the Italian baroque style.
Which places do you find most culturally inspiring?
My top 3 are all museums: firstly, the Museo Egizio, then the Armeria Reale, and last but not least the Museo dell’Automobile.
Which restaurant or café would you say best captures Turin’s vibe?
I’d say Gelateria Pepino, La Bottega Guido Gobino for chocolate and Pastificio Defilippis for a light lunch. They’re all places you’ll come across when walking along via Lagrange from Piazza Carignano.
Which neighbourhood instantly springs to mind when we say “Shopping in Turin”?
Downtown Turin, with its exclusive boutiques such as the Kristina Ti fashion store in Via Maria Vittoria, the Tonatto profumi perfume house in Via della Rocca, and Oscalito in Via Amendola for lingerie.
Do you have any secret addresses you’d care to share?
I would suggest heading off on a special trip to the east of Turin.
Start by grabbing a cup of coffee at the Costadoro factory in the Vanchiglia district and then, after crossing the River Po, make a beeline for l’Opificio, a textile showroom in the Borgo Po district.
I would then head even further east, first of all stopping in Chieri to pay a visit to Quagliotti, a leading name in luxury linen design, and then in Cocconato to sip some great wines and the Cocchi Vermouth at Cantine Bava.
The trip would end at the Relais San Maurizio 1619, a beautifully renovated seventeenth century monastery in Santo Stefano Belbo that is now a stunning hotel and restaurant.
Where is the best place to stay for anyone keen to explore the city?
The hottest spot in Turin right now is OGR, which acts like a magnet for today’s young crowd. It’s buzzing with students and startuppers during the day, and at night the Snodo bar and restaurant has a truly amazing vibe.
Which design piece can only be picked up in Turin?
Apologies for blowing my own trumpet, but talking about design pieces instantly makes me think of (our) Pininfarina automobile Collection in Cambiano.
Interview done on MAISON&OBJET PARIS – Sept.2019