Photography by Barbara Pirovano
Deposito 80 was established in Como in October of 2019 as a concept store and café with a vintage flavour that reflected the eclectic personality of its owner. Emanuela Pitozzi came to the shores of the lake for love more than 30 years ago, and has acquired decades of experience in the restaurant and fashion sectors, while at the same time indulging a passion for interior design and brocantes upcycling of antiques and collectibles. Deposito 80 was a unique addition to the Como area scene and immediately aroused the curiosity and interest of locals and tourists alike.
All the items displayed in the shop are for sale, from the large wooden sideboards to the porcelain cups that the coffee is served in. About once a month Emanuela travels to France, where about 80 per cent of the articles come from. There she browses flea markets and antiques markets, buying furniture, small furnishings and home accessories that are then restored in her Como workshop and finally displayed to the public. “The search for unique pieces is the part of my job that I find most exhilarating, to be able to give a second life to objects that have already been used and loved by other people”, she explains.
The large selection of vintage and antique furniture, and the variety objects is complemented by a careful selection of mainly Italian small clothing brands, and accessories, many of which have a particular vocation for solidarity and sustainability. “When I opened Deposito 80, I wanted to extend what Como had to offer with an original and sustainable alternative”, says Emanuela. On the shelves there are also local products, such as wines from the upper lake area, and niche items from international brands, such as syrups with a variety of flavours and other delicacies that are almost unobtainable in Italy.
Deposito 80 has a bubbly, multifaceted soul. Every time you cross the threshold, you have the sense you are entering an enchanted space where everything is in constant state of flux, but one in which even the smallest detail is studied. The enveloping whale-blue walls, with the right wall’s floral wallpaper adding an exotic and humorous character, create a warm and cosy atmosphere. The coffee bar also has small pastries, hot chocolates and many kinds of teas for delicious breakfasts or quick snacks, as well as spritzes and glasses of wine for an after-work drink. A peculiarity of the place is that there are only about twenty seats so customers are invited to share the large wooden tables, enabling them to get caught up in and participate in the convivial atmosphere of Deposito 80.
Due to its unmistakeable and authentic style, Emanuela's place is very popular for photoshoots and for small private events. At Deposito 80 you can also take part in embroidery workshops, knitting courses and small tasting sessions of local foods. “I really seek out these kinds of cooperative ventures and network with other businesses in the area. I love multiform shops, where each is never the same”. Emanuela's desire to create long-lasting relationships is also reflected in her relationships with Deposito 80's most loyal customers, who rely on her expertise and passion to add flare and warmth to their homes with her unique and valuable pieces.