With numerous designers bringing out their collections for the Maison & Objet Paris 2016, it is somewhat difficult to pick out our favorites though Italian brand Alessi managed to entertain us with a Circus. The homeware brand’s collection sees Marcel Wanders of Dutch design studio Moooi create quirky and fun pieces that would be a conversation starter in any home. Only 999 pieces of the brand’s new limited edition fall/winter collection will be made so it would probably be wise to get the circus before it leaves town.

Titled “Circus”, the collection is filled with colorful stainless steel and china pieces that are reminiscent of, well, a circus. The collection sees bowls, trays, ice buckets, wine coolers, salad bowls and cups covered in white, red, black and gold geometric patterns. Wanders also introduces five objects to the Officina Alessi range with miniature sculptures each with their own personality.

“The Jester” corkscrew, which goes by the name Gilberto, is a wine-drunk joker who waves, dances and manically gesticulates, stealing the spotlight as he pulls another cork. Next comes “The Strongman” nutcracker, aka Marcello. From stomping grapes as a child to pressing olives and finally cracking nuts, his muscles have developed over the years to make this strongman a great helping hand in the home. Then in spins “The Ballerina,” Valentina, a music box featuring a pirouetting baby elephant.

The Ringleader

Of course, no circus is complete without its clown and in the case of Alessi, it is “The Candyman” named Alberto who happens to be a candy dispenser. Leading the troupe is “The Ringleader” Massimo who lets everyone know when it’s time to start the party.