Lella Vignelli (1934 - 2016) was born in Udine, Italy, and graduated with a degree in architecture the Universita IUAV di Venezia, followed by a funded fellowship as a scholar at the MIT School of Architecture.  Massimo Vignelli (1931 - 2014) was born in Milan, Italy.  He studied architecture at the Politecnico di Milano and Universita IUAV di Venezia.  They married in 1957 and their prolific work over the ensuing decades includes graphic design, corporate image work for industry, signs and industrial design; they designed furniture for several manufacturers, as well as interiors and exhibition installations.  They also designed several buildings.  The Vignellis were recipients of numerous prestigious design awards - their work is included in the permanent collections of several museums worldwide.  The Vignellis were originally based in Milan and, since 1965, in New York City.  Their studio continues to work with some of the most important American and European companies and institutions.