Innovators in Plastic: The Success Story of Kartell in Furniture Design

In the heart of Italy, the renowned design brand Kartell showcases a unique narrative of innovation and resilience in the furniture industry. Among the various exhibits in its dedicated museum, one particular piece stands out: a lounge chair originally envisioned by architect Joe Colombo. Dubbed 'K4801', this chair was intended to be crafted entirely from plastic, but due to technological limitations in the 1960s, it was ultimately produced in wood. It wasn't until 2011 that the original design was fully realized in PMMA, commonly known as Plexiglas, long after Colombo's passing in 1971. Today, the wooden version is a rare collector's item.

The museum, established in 1999 at Kartell's headquarters in Noviglio, serves as a testament to the company's journey through the evolution of design and materials. Curator Elisa Storace reflects on the significance of Kartell's contributions to post-war Italian industrial design, highlighting both the acclaim and the challenges the brand has faced over its 75 years in operation.

Founded in 1949 by chemist Giulio Castelli and his colleagues, Kartell's first venture was a ski rack for automobiles, which gained such popularity that car manufacturers soon adopted its production. The company's innovation in plastic manufacturing quickly expanded into household items like lemon squeezers and baby baths, all designed with an aesthetic appeal by talented designers such as Gino Colombini. Storace emphasizes that from the very beginning, Kartell aimed to harmonize material, purpose, and design.

One of the company's notable early successes was the 'KS1146' plastic bucket, awarded the prestigious Compasso d'Oro in 1955 for its practicality and design. However, it was the introduction of the 'Universale' chair in the early 1960s, designed by Colombo, that marked a turning point for Kartell. This colorful plastic chair, produced in a single mold, became an iconic representation of the Space Age aesthetic, symbolizing a shift towards more vibrant and durable household items.

In 1967, Anna Castelli Ferrieri, Giulio's wife and Italy's first prominent female architect, designed the 'Componibili' modular furniture, which remains popular today. Lorenza Luti, now managing the company in its third generation, recounts her grandmother's keen sense of design and functionality, which has influenced Kartell's legacy.

Despite the initial success, the 1980s brought a decline in the reputation of plastic furniture, as perceptions shifted towards viewing it as cheap and environmentally harmful. Following this challenge, Claudio Luti, who previously propelled the Versace brand to global fame, took over Kartell. He refocused the brand on collaborations with contemporary designers, including Philippe Starck, whose works like 'La Marie' and 'Louis Ghost' redefined plastic furniture in the late 1990s.

As the environmental impact of plastics became more apparent, Kartell began transitioning towards the use of recycled and biodegradable materials in the late 1990s. This change required significant advocacy, as initial public perceptions of recycled plastic were less favorable. Today, Kartell predominantly utilizes sustainable materials, marking a significant evolution in its manufacturing process.

As the 'K4801' chair celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, the museum serves not only as a repository of design history but also as a reflection on how Kartell has adapted to changing societal values and environmental concerns. The journey of this Italian furniture manufacturer exemplifies the dynamic interplay between design innovation and sustainability, ensuring its relevance in the contemporary market.

The Kartell Museum, inaugurated for the company's 50th anniversary, highlights the rich heritage and pioneering spirit of this influential brand in the world of design.