The Stelo modular wardrobe system, designed by Francesc Rifé for Uecko, was born with a clear ambition: to transform storage into a piece of interior architecture that organizes and complements the space. Rather than being seen as an isolated piece of furniture, this system is conceived as a precise grid that structures the room, a framework that grows vertically and interacts with the space it inhabits. The idea of ​​the stem —stelo in Italian— is perceived in that slender verticality and in the notion of a living structure that ascends with lightness..
Rifé's career has spanned decades, refining a design approach based on order, proportion, and material quality. His minimalism is not a passing fad, but an ethic of permanence: pieces that last because they avoid excess. With Stelo, that rigor translates into a flexible system that can integrate diverse functions without generating visual noise, and which maintains an impeccable formal coherence thanks to an essential language of lines and rhythms.
From stem to grid: Stelo's vertical logic
The system's name encapsulates its spirit. Stelo evokes the botanical idea of ​​the stem as a column that supports and grows, an image that has been transferred to the wardrobe's structure. The grid of uprights and handles at full height emphasizes the vertical reading and acts as a discreet regulating orderemphasizing the height and contributing geometric serenity. This presence, far from intruding, complements and completes the existing architecture.
A key aspect of the project is the way the base module dissolves into the whole. Stelo functions as a modular system that, rather than simply displaying its components, integrates them into the space's envelope. This desire to mimic unity and reveal only the order it brings transforms the wardrobe into a domestic infrastructure. and not in an autonomous object that competes with walls, gaps or woodwork.
Modularity that frees up space: integrated functions
When Rifé speaks of luxury, he's not referring to accumulation, but to creating a sense of spaciousness. That's why Stelo proposes regrouping functions that are usually scattered throughout the house: minibar, dressing table, desk, coffee area, even hybrid sinks or headboards with a bench or table. The virtue of the system lies in that continuity which avoids fragmenting spaces and allows, if the project requires it, for each element to also become independent..
This approach multiplies the uses of the primary block; whole modules or fractions can be taken to build custom configurations. The wardrobe becomes a spatial device capable of absorbing activities without losing compositional pulsea kind of backbone where each component fits precisely into the grid.
Materials, finishes and visual silence
The so-called visual silence—related to the concept of silent luxury— is another of the designer's constants: that the system fulfills its function and organizes the scene without being imposing. For this, the materials and finishes become crucial. Natural wood—with a special presence of oak—sets the rhythm and coexists with lacquers, leathers and textiles to enrich the tactile and chromatic experience., while preserving the overall sobriety of the whole.
That balance between nobility and restraint reaffirms the personality of Uecko and Rifé, and their commitment to the sustainability. Textures, detail, and proportion are celebrated, but always under a restrained aesthetic that prioritizes order and durability.avoiding stridency. The result is a system that is perceived more for the effects it produces than for its formal display.
Uecko x Rifé: woodworking craft and precision
The collaboration between Rifé's studio and Uecko is no coincidence. The Madrid-based firm is a national leader in wardrobe systems, with a technical expertise and material culture that align perfectly with the designer's philosophy. Both share an honest reverence for wood and well-understood craftsmanship.This translates into precise machining, high-performance hardware, and clean assemblies.
There is also a personal affinity: Rifé himself comes from a family in Sant Sadurnà d'Anoia traditionally linked to woodworking, a background that resonates in his design approach. That artisanal essence coexists with technology to offer tailored solutions without losing finesse or stabilityboth in manufacturing and installation.
A system that complements the architecture and can evolve
The starting point is clear: Stelo doesn't compete with architecture, it complements it. Its refined language allows it to function in very different scenarios, from neutral environments to more complex contexts. The key is to bring order and proportion through vertical lines, avoiding any superfluous gesturesand in adapting to the character of the place without diluting its identity.
And although it is designed for domestic use, the system is open to future expansions. The logic of its grid could migrate to kitchens, facilities, or other public spacesBecause the structural matrix and modular approach allow for evolution without betraying the original concept. Permanence, here, is not immobility, but a solid foundation for variation.
Presentation at Habitat Valencia and technical ambition
Stelo was presented at the Hábitat Valencia fair as a modular and flexible design that harmonizes proportion, precision, and lightness. The image of lines rising from floor to ceiling expresses an elegant verticality that seems to grow effortlessly. Rifé's intention is that the user not only uses the system, but inhabits it and feels it as part of their everyday architecture.
Uecko also showcased his technical prowess with milestones that go beyond mere showmanship. The company displayed the world's tallest wardrobe, measuring 6,43 meters, recognized by Guinness World Records.This achievement demonstrates that the union of craftsmanship and engineering can pursue the monumental without sacrificing precision or sensitivity. Simultaneously, the brand unveiled the evolution of its Nara collection, featuring integrated lighting and backlit stones that expand the sensory spectrum of interior design.
Stelo in the Uecko ecosystem
Within Uecko's universe, Stelo is understood as a vertical storage solution that polishes lines to highlight the scale of the environment. The combination of natural woods with high-precision hardware ensures flawless everyday use, and its open design fits with projects that require customized combinations and controlled system growth.
Other proposals that engage with architecture at Habitat Valencia
Alongside Stelo, the fair brought together collections that share that vision of fusion between design, function and atmosphere. They are not mere objects: they are tools for building kinder living and working environments., capable of humanizing the technique without losing aesthetic criteria.
Cuff — Actiu — estudi{H}ac
Under Actiu's Life Friendly Spaces slogan, José Manuel Ferrero (estudi{H}ac) presented Cuff, a soft seating program that highlights the bespoke character of the Valencian designer. The name evokes the cuff of a tailored shirt, that detail that, without fanfare, defines an entire garment.The rounded shapes and palpable ergonomics speak of careful manufacturing geared towards hybrid spaces that need comfort and adaptability.
Verissimo — Systemtronic — Soraya Pla
Verissimo is a family of aluminum planters that bridges the gap between architecture and nature. Eight models in the shape of cylindrical bowls, supported on pedestals or cubic columnsThey allow the construction of micro-landscapes with geometric balance and a variety of heights. Their modular nature and material lightness lend themselves equally well to contract, hospitality, or domestic environments.
Duo — Ofitres — La Mamba Studio
With Duo, La Mamba Studio proposes a seating system that is as versatile as it is mobile: individual seat, support surface and transit piece for collaborative areas. Colors, dynamism and rapid reconfiguration come into play to activate coworking spaces, libraries or corporate lobbiesIts smooth contours help absorb noise, and the compact dimensions facilitate frictionless on-site changes.
Rythm — Zavotti — Daniel Germani
The Rythm outdoor collection, designed by Daniel Germani for Zavotti, combines a lightweight aluminum structure with an organically textured rope weave. Formal simplicity is not at odds with craftsmanship or durabilityThe result is a serene ensemble that adapts naturally to residential terraces and hospitality projects.
Pètria — Vical — Pep Gramage
Pètria evokes volcanic images through tables and auxiliary elements of basaltic geometries. Monolithic, almost sculpted volumes rise on bases that interlock small blocks reminiscent of basalt.The execution in mango wood with a sandblasted black finish accentuates the tactile dimension of the series and its sculptural intention without grandiloquence.
Curio—Point—Patrick Norguet
At Curio, Patrick Norguet signs an outdoor collection with an aluminum frame and flat rope braiding with a graphic pattern. The pieces define an enveloping identity thanks to backrests that embrace the body.with finishes such as Mineral White, Metallic Grey, or Merlot. The outdoor area thus becomes a living room under the sky, an everyday setting that invites you to discover the extraordinary.
Kilt — Rols — Altherr Désile Park
Rols promotes circularity with Kilt, a collection of rugs made with high-quality recycled PET. The proposal seeks to be sustainable and reduce the impact of fossil fuels.contributing bold patterns and serene color harmonies. Being made to measure, each piece is precisely sized for the space it will occupy.
Halo — Butsir — estudi{H}ac
Halo redefines outdoor fire as a design object: a hybrid between a side table, a sculptural piece, and a heating system. The flame is framed as a social nucleus —warmth, light and ceremony— within a sober teak architectureIts modular and customizable nature facilitates integration into different contexts, updating Butsir's legacy in the world of gas and portable heat.
Eclipse — Teulat — Clap Studio
Eclipse is a stool that condenses the Clap Studio triad —simplicity, elegance and playfulness— into a minimal gesture: a metal structure and an upholstered seat. The contrast between light and shadow is explored through proportion and detail.resulting in a timeless piece that complements without demanding attention.
Nest—Mobboli—Norm Architects
Nest, by Norm Architects for Mobboli, is a collaborative work table whose frame of two steel trestles, joined by a central beam, supports a tabletop in two longitudinal sheets. Perfect leveling is guaranteed by integrated rodsMeanwhile, a central channel handles wiring and accessories. An ecosystem of LED luminaires, shelves, and sound-absorbing panels expands scenes and uses with a carefully measured restraint.
Taboo — Butó — Summumstudio
Butó explores the custom bathroom with Tabú, a volume that articulates contrasting geometries. Smooth, rectangular countertop surfaces coexist with the cylindrical silhouette of the sink.And the finishes—matte lacquers or natural woods—reinforce the interplay of textures. The bathroom asserts itself as a design stage full of surprises.
Meridies — Expormim — Roberto Lazzeroni
Meridies —literally, the cool, shady place during the hottest hours— is Lazzeroni's first collaboration with Expormim. Sofa and outdoor armchair in FSC-certified sapele wood take the brand's rattan imagery and translate it with organic savoir-faireThe comfort of soft profiles and the noble feel of the frame bring the aura of the interior to the outdoors with a spirit of slow Mediterranean living.
Havana — iSiMAR — Gensler
Habana reinterprets outdoor privacy with two typologies: cabin with daybed and space divider. Made from galvanized rod with polyester paint, the collection is durable, recyclable and suitable for continuous contract use.Its trapezoidal, softened silhouette envelops without closing and creates light shaded shelters with a visual filter.
Cassia — Nardi
Cassia is a monobloc chair with arms made of polypropylene with fiberglass, UV additives and a matte finish. The unique casing of stylized horizontal slats hugs the body and ensures ergonomics.It stacks easily, withstands the elements and is easy to clean, showcasing the Made in Italy seal in every detail.
Riff — Bolon
Riff, Bolon's new collection of floor tiles, proposes a motif with a 3D effect: organic up close, monolithic in a global view. The palette vibrates with subtlety and avoids graphic noise.Designed for continuous installations or with rotating patterns that take advantage of the light reflection inherent in woven vinyl. The tiles-only strategy allows for easier repair, reuse, and recycling.
Senso — Joquer — Mario Ruiz
To celebrate their collaboration, Joquer is reissuing Senso by Mario Ruiz. An adaptable collection, with a slender shape and clear structures, with low or high arm versions, different backrest heights and combinable modulesAmong the new features, shelves integrated into the structure expand the possibilities for modern living rooms. Senso seems to have matured over the years into its best version yet.
Stelo and the proposals seen at Habitat Valencia underline a shared idea: design not only solves functions, it also builds atmospheres that order our lives without imposing themselves. When a project balances proportion, material, and technique, the result transcends fashion and endures., habitable and serene, both in the home and in public or work spaces.
