"The future of design is not in standardised products, but rather in unique pieces. When I made the Sansone for Cassina, I remember people coming into the showroom and saying "We want that table." But they couldn't have it; I could make them something similar, but not exactly the same. I was inspired by a beautiful story from Japan about ten teacups: the first one was perfect; the second had a little fault; the third, a few more faults. The last one was like a rag: uttery destroyed. The story says that the first one was the least expensive, while the last one was so expensive that only the emperor could afford it. Why? Because that last one was the most full of personality. Design should be unique and sublime."