Furniture and design made in Italy: the history of the sector

April 2024 was a very successful month for thefurniture he was born in design in Italy. Furniture is one of the main drivers of the Italian economy, as evidenced by the success of the recently concluded Salone del Mobile, which recorded more than 361,000 visitors from all over the world.

Furniture is also one of the “4 A’s” of Made in Italy as well as food processing, clothing and automation. How was this sector born? Let’s discover the origins of Italian furniture.

Furniture industry figures Made in Italy

Although there were some difficulties restarting after the pandemic, according to a survey carried out by IntesaSanpaolo, the furniture market Made in Italy it continues to grow. In 2023, a turnover of 28 billion euros was recorded, with the employment of around 15,000 companies and more than 128,000 workers. The year ended with a slight decline, particularly inexport. This is not a dramatic decline, given the excellent results generally obtained by the sector. France has become the main foreign country to which Italy sells its products, followed by the United States, Germany and the United Kingdom. Flows to China have, however, decreased: perhaps due to Italy's withdrawal from the project. Belt and Road Initiative (The Chinese Silk Road). 2024 has had a timid start but forecasts see theexport up to almost 50% in 2026, with exports of up to 13 billion euros.

“We represent one of the strategic supply chains for the national GDP – said the president of FederlegnoArredo, Claudio Feltrin, on the eve of the day of Made in Italy – style, research, innovation and “industrial” craftsmanship allow us to be a sector whose “furniture macro-system” is worth around 28 billion euros and exports 53% of its furniture products , including 15 intended abroad and a trade balance of 9.8 billion euros. The furniture sector has more than 141,000 employees, for a total of just over 21,000 companies.“.

History of furniture in Italy

The history of furniture in Italy began with the rise of the Italian people themselves. The Romans were the first to boast great artistic ability, as evidenced by the skill of ancient artisans, who shaped wood and metals with a taste appreciated among rival peoples. Over the years, Italy has developed comprehensive experience in furniture and manufacturing design: from the era of the Corporations which saw Florence and Venice as European emblems in terms of quality and innovation, to the creation of works of art by Italian workers coveted by European courts. Thanks to a great artistic sensitivity, Italy has maintained a unique style, influencing the stylistic choices of other countries.. From the Renaissance to Neoclassicism, then drawing inspiration fromArt Nouveau And Decorationthe Italians demonstrated that they had original spirit and talent, earning a reputation as masters in the industry.

In the 20th century, the sector of design Italian has reached its maximum expression: Brands still considered important today were born like Cassina, Kartell and Alessi, and artists like Gio Ponti, Andrea Castigliani and Ettore Sottsass created icons that became famous around the world.

Italian furniture brands have conquered international markets with their increased presence online and collaboration with foreign professionals. Some products Made in Italy they place themselves as excellences in the global imagination. Today among the most prestigious Italian brands that produce furniture and furnishings designthey stand out Poltrona Fraufamous for its upholstered furniture, Bed and Breakfast Italy for contemporary collections Flexible form, specialized in the luxury sector. Italy is therefore ready to improve and invest more and more in the furniture sector.

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