Born in Robbiate, near Milan, he graduated in architecture from the Politecnico di Milano in 1929. Early in his career, Albini worked alongside Gio Ponti and Emilio Lancia, which significantly influenced his design philosophy.

Throughout his career, Albini seamlessly integrated modernist principles with traditional Italian craftsmanship. He utilized raw, inexpensive materials to create minimalist yet elegant designs. Notable works include the "Luisa" chair, for which he received the Compasso d'Oro award, and the "Margherita" and "Gala" chairs, crafted from woven cane.

In addition to furniture design, Albini made significant contributions to architecture and urban planning. He designed the Rome Rinascente building in 1961 and collaborated on the design of Milan Metro Line 1 subway stations with Franca Helg and Bob Noorda.

Albini's work has been recognized with multiple Compasso d'Oro awards, underscoring his enduring influence on design. His legacy continues to inspire contemporary designers, reflecting his commitment to merging functionality with aesthetic elegance.