A Brief History of Kartell

Kartell is an Italian furniture and design company that was founded in 1949 by Giulio Castelli. The company started out producing automobile accessories but eventually moved into designing and manufacturing furniture made from plastic. Kartell quickly became famous for its innovative use of plastic and for creating furniture pieces that were both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The Kartell Design Philosophy

The Kartell design philosophy is centered around the idea that furniture should be both practical and beautiful. They are committed to creating products that are not only functional but also visually stunning. This commitment to beauty and functionality is evident in every product in the Kartell catalog, from chairs and tables to lighting and home accessories.

Innovative Use of Plastic

One of the key factors that sets Kartell apart from other furniture designers is their groundbreaking use of plastic. They were the first company to harness the full potential of plastic in their furniture designs, creating pieces that were both flexible and durable. Kartell’s use of plastic also allowed them to produce their furniture at a much lower cost than traditional materials like wood and metal.

Collaborations with Top Designers

Kartell has collaborated with some of the most talented designers in the world to create some truly iconic pieces of furniture. Some of their most notable partnerships include Philippe Starck, Ron Arad, and Ferruccio Laviani. These collaborations have resulted in some truly innovative and visually stunning products that have become staples in the world of modern design.

Environmental Sustainability

Despite their use of plastic, Kartell is committed to promoting environmental sustainability through their manufacturing processes. They use high-quality, recyclable plastics in all of their furniture designs, and work diligently to reduce their carbon footprint through responsible manufacturing practices.

The Iconic Products of Kartell

Kartell has created many iconic products over the years, many of which have become household names. Some of their most famous designs include the Louis Ghost Chair, the Componibili storage unit, and the Bourgie Lamp.

The Louis Ghost Chair

The Louis Ghost Chair is one of Kartell’s most famous designs, and one of the most recognizable pieces of furniture in the world. Designed by Philippe Starck, the Louis Ghost Chair is made entirely from transparent polycarbonate, making it both elegant and functional. The chair’s unique design allows it to blend seamlessly into any environment, from contemporary to classic.

The Componibili Storage Unit

The Componibili storage unit is another one of Kartell’s most popular designs. Designed by Anna Castelli Ferrieri, the Componibili is a modular storage unit made from ABS plastic. The unit can be stacked and arranged in a variety of configurations, making it perfect for any space. The Componibili is available in a range of colors and sizes, making it a versatile and practical piece of furniture.

The Bourgie Lamp

The Bourgie Lamp is a Kartell classic, designed by Ferruccio Laviani in 2004. The lamp is made from polycarbonate and features a baroque-style base and a pleated lampshade. The lamp is available in a range of colors and can be adjusted to three different heights. The Bourgie Lamp is a perfect example of Kartell’s commitment to creating products that are both functional and visually stunning.