The Italian super sports car marque, Ferrari, has always been synonymous with luxury, speed, and impeccable design. For over two decades, the brand has been setting the benchmark for automotive design, and now, they have taken it a step further with the launch of their in-house design center.
This state-of-the-art design center, located in Maranello, Italy, is a tribute to four heads of design who have shaped the brand’s iconic style over the years. It is a celebration of their legacy, as well as a testament to Ferrari’s commitment to constantly evolving and pushing the boundaries of design.
The four designers that the center honors are Leonardo Fioravanti, Sergio Pininfarina, Frank Stephenson, and Flavio Manzoni. Each of these designers has left an indelible mark on Ferrari’s design language, and their contributions have played a significant role in the brand’s success.
Leonardo Fioravanti was the first head of design for Ferrari and is responsible for some of the most iconic models in the brand’s history, including the 365 GTB/4 “Daytona” and the 288 GTO. His designs were characterized by clean lines, aerodynamic shapes, and a focus on performance.
Sergio Pininfarina, on the other hand, brought a touch of elegance and sophistication to Ferrari’s designs. He was responsible for the iconic Testarossa, F40, and Enzo models, which are still considered some of the most beautiful cars ever made. His designs were a perfect blend of form and function, with a strong emphasis on aerodynamics.
Frank Stephenson, the third head of design, brought a fresh and modern approach to Ferrari’s designs. He was responsible for the Enzo-based FXX and the 430 Scuderia, which were both praised for their bold and aggressive styling. Stephenson’s designs were a reflection of Ferrari’s racing heritage, with a focus on performance and speed.
The current head of design, Flavio Manzoni, has been at the helm since 2010 and has continued to push the boundaries of Ferrari’s design language. He has introduced new elements such as the “shark nose” front end and the “aero bridge” on the 458 Italia, which have become signature features of Ferrari’s modern designs.
The in-house design center not only pays tribute to these four designers but also showcases the evolution of Ferrari’s design language over the years. From the classic lines of the 1960s to the modern and futuristic designs of today, visitors can see the progression and evolution of Ferrari’s iconic style.
The center also serves as a creative hub for Ferrari’s design team, providing them with the latest technology and resources to develop new and innovative designs. It is a place where ideas are born, and where the future of Ferrari’s design language is shaped.
One of the most exciting aspects of the in-house design center is the opportunity for visitors to see the design process in action. From sketching to clay modeling to the final product, visitors can witness firsthand how a Ferrari comes to life. This not only gives fans a deeper appreciation for the brand but also allows them to be a part of the design journey.
The launch of the in-house design center is a significant milestone for Ferrari, as it marks the brand’s commitment to excellence and innovation in design. It is a testament to their dedication to staying at the forefront of automotive design and their determination to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
In conclusion, the in-house design center for Ferrari is a celebration of four heads of design, two decades of stylistic evolution, and one design language that has become synonymous with the brand. It is a place where the past, present, and future of Ferrari’s design come together, and where the magic of creating a Ferrari is brought to life. With this new center, Ferrari has once again proven why they are leaders in the world of luxury and super sports cars.
