our origin
Fred&Juul is short for Federico Minarelli and Julie Janssen. Juul is Dutch and Fred is Italian. We met in Florence where we both studied architecture and then opened an architectural practice, focusing on residential renovations. Our projects would involve designing the architectural space up until the custom furniture, which we came to realize was our true passion. After several gratifying collaborations with local artisans, we decided to dedicate ourselves to what we love most and launched our first furniture collection in 2012.

our purpose

We design furniture and lighting in close collaboration with local artisans, who bring each creation to life through their skilled craftsmanship. These pieces are conceived as functional art –designed and crafted to serve a purpose while inviting reflection and presence. Our love for intricate details and the skillful use of precious materials is evident in every piece, fostering a connection with the discerning observer. Each design is a dialogue between tradition and innovation, blending time-honored techniques with modern sensibilities. Our commitment to sustainability ensures that every piece not only enhances the spaces it inhabits but also honors the environment from which it originates. Through thoughtful design, we aim to elevate everyday living, making each interaction with our furniture and lighting a reminder of the beauty in craftsmanship, the importance of quality, and the power of human connection.

our process
The artisans we work with are highly specialized in a specific material which is the foundation of our creative process. We draw inspiration from the material’s possibilities and properties. Guided by architectural sensibility and a love for nature, we explore these until a shape or detail emerges, which we develop until the piece is completely defined. The result is that the shape highlights the material and viceversa, while the detail captures their essence: the mottled, grainy surface of the brass star-shaped Raffaele light; the juxtaposed Oak grains in the marquetry of the Sally table; the intricate cast brass butterflies of the Johnnie sconce; the stone’s edges of the Lily credenza that seem to curl; the enchanting effect of the colored translucent Itzel tables overlapping; …​​