Kartell
Kartell is a legendary Italian design house, founded by Giulio Castelli back in 1949. From the very beginning, Kartell set itself apart by working primarily with plastic – a bold and innovative move at the time. In its early years, the company focused on the automotive industry, but by the 1960s, Kartell had turned its creative energy towards lighting, furniture and home décor.
Today, Kartell proudly continues its design legacy with a modern twist – embracing sustainability and collaborating with some of the world’s most celebrated designers. The company’s headquarters remain in Milan, and the products are still proudly made in Italy.
Componibili
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Kartell – the experimental lab of Italian design
Founded in 1949 in post-war Italy, Kartell emerged at a time when design and industrial production were beginning to shape the modern lifestyle. Its founder, chemical engineer Giulio Castelli, quickly recognised the vast potential of plastic materials, laying the foundations for a brand that would soon become one of the pioneers of Italian design.
Kartell is known for its bold, forward-thinking approach to Italian design, offering a versatile collection of lighting, chairs and furniture for both homes and public spaces. One of the brand’s most iconic pieces is the modular Componibili storage unit, designed by Anna Castelli Ferrieri in 1967 – a true classic that’s as functional as it is fun.
Legendary design collaborations
In 1988, Kartell was acquired by Claudio Luti, whose background at the fashion house Versace brought a new level of aesthetic ambition and creative energy to the brand. Luti initiated exciting collaborations with world-renowned designers and architects, welcoming talents such as Philippe Starck, Ron Arad, Antonio Citterio, Patricia Urquiola and Piero Lissoni into Kartell’s creative fold.
These collaborations helped shape Kartell’s signature style – instantly recognisable design icons where industrial precision meets bold visual expression.
The master of materials
Innovation has always been at the heart of Kartell’s story. The brand has continually pushed the boundaries of production techniques and material exploration. A major breakthrough came in 1999 when Kartell became the first company in the world to produce durable, functional home furniture from polycarbonate. The very first piece was the La Marie chair by Philippe Starck – a clear, minimalist wonder that paved the way for the now-legendary Louis Ghost chair.
Over the years, Kartell has collected numerous international design awards. In 1999, the company founded the Kartell Museum in Milan – a tribute to its creative journey and a celebration of its unique design philosophy.
Kartell at a glance
- Founded in Milan in 1949.
- A trailblazer in industrial design and plastic innovation.
- Today, focused on recycled and sustainable plastic materials.
- Winner of numerous international design awards, including several Compasso d’Oro prizes.
- Iconic products: Louis Ghost and Masters chairs (Philippe Starck), Componibili storage units (Anna Castelli Ferrieri), Bourgie lamp (Ferruccio Laviani).
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