Kartell is synonymous with innovative, modern design, often celebrated for its unique approach to materials, especially plastic. This brand offers a wide array of furniture, lighting, and home accessories, characterized by their vibrant colors, playful transparency, and futuristic forms. Some iconic pieces include the transparent "Louis Ghost" chair and the colorful "Componibili" storage units. Their offerings are both functional and statement-making, suitable for homes, offices, and public spaces. Kartell products can be found in design stores worldwide, boutiques dedicated solely to the brand, and numerous online platforms, bringing Italian design flair to global interiors.
Founded in 1949 by Giulio Castelli, Kartell began as a car accessory manufacturer in Milan. Over the years, it transitioned into home furnishings, gaining fame for its innovative use of plastic materials. Collaborations with design icons like Philippe Starck and Anna Castelli Ferrieri helped cement its reputation. Known for merging technology with design, Kartell transformed plastic into stylish, desirable furnishings, with pieces like the "Componibili" storage and "Louis Ghost" chair becoming modern classics.
Kartell, always at the forefront of design innovation, will likely continue embracing sustainable materials and eco-friendly processes, aligning with global eco-conscious movements. With the growing demand for multi-functional and space-saving furniture, Kartell may introduce adaptive designs suitable for evolving urban spaces. Collaborations with new-age designers will ensure fresh aesthetics, keeping the brand relevant. Items like their transparent "Ghost" line might see material or tech enhancements, ensuring Kartell remains a design trailblazer.
Kartell is best known for its innovative use of plastic materials in furniture designs. Since the 1960s, the company has pioneered the use of various types of plastics, most notably polycarbonate, polyethylene, and polypropylene. Kartell's ability to transform these materials into luxurious, durable, and aesthetically pleasing furniture pieces, often with transparency and a wide range of colors, set them apart. The transparent polycarbonate, in particular, became synonymous with iconic products like the "Louis Ghost" chair, blurring the lines between traditional and modern design through its materiality.
To clean Kartell plastic, use a soft cloth dampened with lukewarm water and mild soap. Gently wipe the surface, avoiding abrasive scouring pads or harsh chemicals that could scratch or damage the plastic. Rinse with a clean, damp cloth and then dry with a soft, lint-free cloth to prevent water spots or streaks.
The "Louis Ghost" chair, designed by Philippe Starck for Kartell, is arguably their most popular product. A postmodern triumph, this transparent polycarbonate chair reinterprets the classic Louis XVI armchair. Its seamless, minimalist design combined with innovative use of material has made it an iconic and widely recognized piece in contemporary furniture.
