OnePlus Studio Treats Branding as Cultural Excavation, Not Invention
OnePlus, a design studio located in Milan, was founded in 2023 by a team including Pietro Avolio and Matteo Bonato. The studio prioritizes a deep understanding of culture in its branding approach, aiming to create unique designs instead of following current trends. Their diverse portfolio includes a visual identity for a Filipino tapas restaurant in Milan and a publication addressing themes of grief and memory. Additionally, OnePlus collaborates with artists like Boldy James and is connected to the independent magazine Addio. The studio also hosts OnePlus Ensemble, a music initiative focused on R&B, jazz, and hip-hop influences.
Key facts
- OnePlus was founded in 2023 by six designers: Pietro Avolio, Matteo Bonato, Aaron Capobianco, Giovanni De Felice, Francesco D'Agrippino, and Elio De Michele.
- The studio is based in Milan and works across publishing and visual identity systems.
- OnePlus treats each project as a process of excavation rather than invention.
- Projects include a design system for a Filipino tapas bar in Milan and a sensitive identity for a book on grief, memory, and loss.
- The studio's portfolio features vintage references reconfigured into sleek, modern design systems.
- OnePlus runs a music project called OnePlus Ensemble, performing live sounds between R&B, jazz, and hip-hop.
- The studio has worked on projects for Boldy James, Addio magazine, and Balay wine bar.
- Creative direction for Balay wine bar was by OnePlus and Emanuele Abbondanza, with interior design by Studio Mille.
Entities
Artists
- Pietro Avolio
- Matteo Bonato
- Aaron Capobianco
- Giovanni De Felice
- Francesco D'Agrippino
- Elio De Michele
- Emanuele Abbondanza
- Boldy James
- Axel Lagerborg
Institutions
- OnePlus
- Studio Mille
- Bravò Studio
- It's Nice That
- Kingston School of Art
- Addio
Locations
- Milan
- Italy