Reserved
Barrique wood
Barrique wood tells a story of sustainability, reclamation, and transformation. Once used to age Italy’s finest wines, these barrels are now reborn as unique design furniture pieces.
This initiative began in 2012 with the project “Barrique, the New Life of Wood”, developed in collaboration with the San Patrignano community. A visionary idea, it transforms oak barrels into extraordinary design elements. Barriques—225- or 500-liter barrels used for wine aging—have a limited lifespan in wineries, typically lasting only three vintages. Without this project, the precious oak they are crafted from would otherwise be discarded.
Barrique barrels are made from oak that has been air-dried for at least three years. Each stave is unique, shaped by fire and bearing deep reddish hues from prolonged contact with wine. This wood, rich in history and character, is a noble material that retains its beauty and value even after its original function in the cellar has ended.
Riva1920 reclaims these barrels with artisanal care, preserving every mark of time. Once the barrels are dismantled, the staves are processed within ten days, transforming them into furniture that carries the memory of wine and the craftsmanship of skilled hands.
The partnership with San Patrignano—the largest rehabilitation community in Europe—adds profound social value to this project. Since 1978, San Patrignano has provided those recovering from addiction with opportunities for personal and professional rebirth through work, creativity, and education. Within the community’s woodworking workshops, young artisans have honed their craft under the guidance of Maurizio Riva, who has passed on his passion for wood and design.
Each piece created in this context is more than just furniture; it is the result of a transformative journey—where material recovery intertwines with human renewal.
For Riva1920, repurposing Barrique wood is an ethical and sustainable choice. This approach turns discarded materials into works of art, fostering a virtuous cycle of recovery and creativity.
Over time, this commitment to sustainability has expanded to include the reclamation of 10,000-liter barrels from the Barolo region. This initiative not only honours wood as a resource but also pays tribute to Italian winemaking excellence—blending two hallmarks of Made in Italy craftsmanship.
Through Barrique wood, Riva1920 grants a third life to a material of immense value. This unique oak carries the warmth of winemaking tradition and the passion of master craftsmanship. Every piece created from Barrique wood is a tribute to a living material that continues to tell its story in a new form—celebrating the union of nature, artisanal skill, and sustainable design.
