A key aspect of Mangiarotti’s practice was his deep understanding of materials—especially concrete, glass, and marble—and his ability to push their structural possibilities while maintaining a refined visual language. His architectural projects, such as industrial buildings and train stations, often featured modular and prefabricated elements, reflecting his interest in construction processes and adaptability.

In design, Mangiarotti’s sculptural yet highly functional furniture and objects, such as his marble Eros tables, showcased his mastery of material weight and balance. He believed in a "design without design" approach, where form followed material logic and structural integrity.

His work remains influential in both architecture and design, admired for its timeless quality and sensitivity to both materiality and spatial experience.