Design Collaboration

‘Elementi’ dumbbells

Sculptural and functional, Elementi transforms natural stone into gym equipment. Designed by Davide Aquini in collaboration with Lundhs, the collection merges art and utility.

Photography: Paul Zak

In the world of design, form and function often engage in a delicate dance. Few collaborations embody this synergy as elegantly as Elementi, the sculptural yet functional set of dumbbells born from the creative partnership between Davide Aquini and Lundhs, the largest exporter of natural stone in Northern Europe.

At first glance, Elementi presents itself as a collection of refined sculptures—assemblages of curved stone and dark steel that evoke the influence of Aldo Rossi and Giorgio de Chirico. Yet these pieces offer far more than visual appeal. They double as stylish home accessories, from vases and bookends to doorstops and paperweights. Their true ingenuity, however, lies in their role as versatile gym equipment.

A Marriage of Design and Material

Each Elementi piece is meticulously crafted using Lundhs' premium natural stone—Larvikite and Anorthosite—combined with sleek metallic handles. The result? A set of gym weights that are as functional as they are aesthetically striking. The collection comprises a featherweight kettlebell, lightweight and middleweight dumbbells, and a heavyweight barbell, making it suitable for various strength-training exercises.

The materials play a crucial role in the collection’s appeal. Lundhs’ natural stones, with their rich textures and sophisticated hues, elevate Elementi beyond traditional gym equipment, transforming exercise tools into sculptural art pieces that seamlessly blend with interior spaces.

The Designer Behind Elementi

Venice-born Davide Aquini, now based in Padua, brings a deep appreciation for classical artistry and architectural history to his designs. Originally trained in graphic design, Aquini transitioned into product design, drawing inspiration from his studies of ancient art and archaeology. His work is characterized by geometric precision, elegant compositions, and a thoughtful integration of materials such as marble and glass—all of which contribute to Elementi’s striking presence.

Lundhs: A Legacy of Stone Craftsmanship

Founded in 1962 by Thor Lundh, Lundhs has cemented its reputation as Norway’s foremost exporter of natural stone. A family-owned enterprise based in Larvik, the company is distinguished by its commitment to premium-quality stone. The firm's materials—sourced locally—have been celebrated for their beauty and durability, making them the perfect foundation for Elementi’s dual functionality in art and fitness.

A New Perspective on Design

Elementi challenges the conventional perception of gym equipment, proving that fitness tools can be both functional and visually captivating. By merging industrial design with timeless materials and artistic vision, this collaboration exemplifies the power of interdisciplinary creativity.

In a world where everyday objects often prioritize utility over beauty, Elementi serves as a compelling reminder that design can enrich even the most practical of items. Whether placed in a living space as a statement piece or used in a workout routine, these sculptural dumbbells redefine the boundaries of form and function.