by redesigning every day items through the use of plastic materials and innovative technology. Giulio Castelli a chemical engineer was the original founder of the company; he began designing products from plastic including lab ware, car accessories and lighting. The material was frowned upon back then and was considered to be inferior, but thanks to Kartell's technology and vision it has become one of the most common and best materials to use for a lot of household goods. Striking and colourfull designs for what were usually boring objects emerged in to the marketplace.

 

Kartell are based in Italy where 100% of its entire range is made, it is proud of this fact where other major manufacturers have decided to produce in the Far East for cheaper production costs. There furniture range includes tables, chairs  lamps, lighting and home accessories which are produced and designed in collaboration with some of the worlds most famous top designers including Philippe Stark, Ron Arad, Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, Antonio Citterio, Patricia Urquiola and Ferruccio Laviani amongst others. These partnerships have resulted in lots of international awards including 9 prestigious Compasso d'Oro awards.

In 1999 the Kartell museum opened its doors to show all its history and its previous products and designs are narrated in a timeline story. The museum is located in Noviglio and features over 1000 products and has won the title of the best corporate museum and is well worth a visit for all design fans. 

Over the last 10 years Kartell has had an ambitious expansion plan and opened 120 flagship stores and its products are stocked in n over a 100 countries around the world. Kartell has an annual turnover of over 50 million pounds, this is down to a combination of creativity, and technology to produce quality pieces furniture that is also functional has led to its success. Design classic in the range include the Louis ghost chair and Victoria ghost chair by Philippe Starck, the Bookworm bookshelf, Masters Chair, Fly ceiling light, Bourgie bourgie lamp and the Componibili storage unit.

All Kartell lighting and furniture is made with the environment in mind and to be as eco friendly as possible as they are made from prime plastics such as petroleum which are recyclable, even the products packaging are made from recyclable materials.

Design 55 are one of the largest Kartell UK stockists and offer fast free delivery.

Written by Adam Watson whose favourite product is the Bourgie lamp.  Close.