From the car industry to designer lighting

Kartell's story begins with the introduction of a completely new material, namely, plastic. Fascinated by the plastic’s malleability, Giulio Castelli established Kartell in 1949. The company focused primarily on the production of car parts and household items.

Plastic’s wide range of applications led to their production rapidly expanding into laboratory products. In 1963, Kartell also started manufacturing items for home accessories. With the production of furniture and lighting, the Kartell Habitat Division was born, now known globally in the design world!

The endless potential of plastics

The key characteristic of Kartell is the materials they use. The Kartell designers research the virtually endless potential of plastics and continuously push the boundaries of what is possible. Their thorough research strives to improve the practical qualities and aesthetic value of plastic.

Kartell innovates with surprising and special colours, fascinating light reflection and transparency. Time and again, other properties surprise onlookers, such as flexibility or a metallic appearance.

Environmentally responsible production

This colourful lighting is more than pleasing to the eye. Kartell believes environmentally responsible production is of paramount importance.

The company strives to develop safe and sustainable high-quality products. The production processes are designed to minimise the production of waste and pollution. Attention is also paid to the recycling of waste.

Kartell’s commitment led to it obtaining the ISO 9001 certificate in 1996, which was renewed in 2010. The designer brand also obtained the ISO 14001:2004 certificate in 2011.