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Kartell Seating

Italian

The Italian design giant Kartell transformed plastic from the stuff of humble household goods into a staple of luxury design in the 1960s. Founded in Milan by Italian chemical engineer Giulio Castelli (1920–2006) and his wife Anna Ferrieri (1918–2006), Kartell began as an industrial design firm, producing useful items like ski racks for automobiles and laboratory equipment designed to replace breakable glass with sturdy plastic. Even as companies like Olivetti and Vespa were making Italian design popular in the 1950s, typewriters and scooters were relatively costly, and Castelli and Ferrieri wanted to provide Italian consumers with affordable, stylish goods.

They launched a housewares division of Kartell in 1953, making lighting fixtures and kitchen tools and accessories from colorful molded plastic. Consumers in the postwar era were initially skeptical of plastic goods, but their affordability and infinite range of styles and hues eventually won devotees. Tupperware parties in the United States made plastic storage containers ubiquitous in postwar homes, and Kartell’s ingenious designs for juicers, dustpans, and dish racks conquered Europe. Kartell designer Gino Colombini was responsible for many of these early products, and his design for the KS 1146 Bucket won the Compasso d’Oro prize in 1955.

Buoyed by its success in the home goods market, Kartell introduced its Habitat division in 1963. Designers Marco Zanuso and Richard Sapper created the K1340 (later called the K 4999) children’s chair that year, and families enjoyed their bright colors and light weight, which made them easy for kids to pick up and move. In 1965, Joe Colombo (1924–78) created one of Kartell’s few pieces of non-plastic furniture, the 4801 chair, which sits low to the ground and comprised of just three curved pieces of plywood. (In 2012, Kartell reissued the chair in plastic.) Colombo followed up on the success of the 4801 with the iconic 4867 Universal Chair in 1967, which, like Verner Panton’s S chair, is made from a single piece of plastic. The colorful, stackable injection-molded chair was an instant classic. That same year, Kartell introduced Colombo’s KD27 table lamp. Ferrierei’s cylindrical 4966 Componibili storage module debuted in 1969.

Kartell achieved international recognition for its innovative work in 1972, when a landmark exhibition curated by Emilio Ambasz called “Italy: The New Domestic Landscape” opened at New York’s Museum of Modern Art. That show introduced American audiences to the work of designers such as Gaetano Pesce; Ettore Sottsass, founder of the Memphis Group; and the firms Archizoom and Superstudio (both firms were among Italy's Radical design groups) — all of whom were using wit, humor and unorthodox materials to create a bracingly original interior aesthetic.

Castelli and Ferrieri sold Kartell to Claudio Luti, their son-in-law, in 1988, and since then, Luti has expanded the company’s roster of designers.

Kartell produced Ron Arad’s Bookworm wall shelf in 1994, and Philippe Starck’s La Marie chair in 1998. More recently, Kartell has collaborated with the Japanese collective Nendo, Spanish architect Patricia Urquiola and glass designer Tokujin Yoshioka, among many others. Kartell classics can be found in museums around the world, including MoMA, the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum. In 1999, Claudio Luti established the Museo Kartell to tell the company’s story, through key objects from its innovative and colorful history.

Find vintage Kartell tables, seating, table lamps and other furniture on 1stDibs.

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Creator: Kartell
Pair of Black Chairs Dr Glob of Philippe Starck for Kartell, circa 1980
Pair of Black Chairs Dr Glob of Philippe Starck for Kartell, circa 1980

Pair of Black Chairs Dr Glob of Philippe Starck for Kartell, circa 1980

By Kartell, Philippe Starck

Located in Labrit, Landes

Kartell Dr. Glob black modern pair of chairs. The Dr. Glob chair was designed by the acclaimed designer Philippe Starck for Kartell in Italy. Fashioned from two different materials, ...

Category

Late 20th Century French Kartell Seating

Materials

Metal

Kartell Bubble Club Armchair in Light Grey by Philippe Starck
Kartell Bubble Club Armchair in Light Grey by Philippe Starck

Kartell Bubble Club Armchair in Light Grey by Philippe Starck

By Philippe Starck, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Bubble club armchair in light grey. Dimensions: Height 30.75 in.; Width 40.15 in.; Depth 29.5 in.; Unit weight 17 kg. Made of: Polyethylene. Outdoor use.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Eros swivel blue chair by Philippe Starck for Kartell 90s
Eros swivel blue chair by Philippe Starck for Kartell 90s

Eros swivel blue chair by Philippe Starck for Kartell 90s

By Philippe Starck, Kartell

Located in Padova, IT

Eros is an enveloping armchair, with an organic egg shape, characterized by a refined combination of finishes and a skilful use of colour. Eros is ideal for the home, in the dining r...

Category

1990s Italian Mid-Century Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Aluminum

Pop Missoni Sofa 3 Seats by Piero Lissoni
Pop Missoni Sofa 3 Seats by Piero Lissoni

Pop Missoni Sofa 3 Seats by Piero Lissoni

By Kartell, Missoni, Piero Lissoni

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Pop is the modular sofa with double cushion on the seat and armrests, making it soft, enveloping and even more comfortable. The armchair is also enhanced with side cushions, giving...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric, Plastic

Joe Colombo Chair No. 4801, Black Plywood, Kartell, Italy, 1960s, One of Two
Joe Colombo Chair No. 4801, Black Plywood, Kartell, Italy, 1960s, One of Two

Joe Colombo Chair No. 4801, Black Plywood, Kartell, Italy, 1960s, One of Two

By Kartell, Joe Colombo

Located in Hausmannstätten, AT

One of two "interlocking" lounge chairs designed by Joe Colombo for Kartell, Italy, manufactured in midcentury. Joe Colombo's iconic 4801 armchair was designed in 1963-1964. A modern chair with striking visual appeal by the master of Italian Space Age design. A limited number of wood 4801 chairs...

Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Kartell Seating

Materials

Plywood

Post-Modern Model 4855 Armchair Chair by Anna Castelli for Kartell
Post-Modern Model 4855 Armchair Chair by Anna Castelli for Kartell

Post-Modern Model 4855 Armchair Chair by Anna Castelli for Kartell

By Kartell, Anna Castelli Ferrieri

Located in San Diego, CA

Cool post-modern Model 4855 armchair chair by Anna Castelli for Kartell, circa 1990s. The cockpit shaped structure has curved armrests with a round midsection and detachable section...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Metal

'Plastics, by Piero Lissoni for Kartell
'Plastics, by Piero Lissoni for Kartell

'Plastics, by Piero Lissoni for Kartell

By Piero Lissoni, Kartell

Located in Athens, Attiki

Minimalistic and sleek design by Piero Lissoni for Kartell. 3 modular leather pieces that can be combined according to one's needs.

Category

1990s Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Leather, Plastic

Kartell Cara Chair Black Beige by Philippe Starck with Sergio Schito
Kartell Cara Chair Black Beige by Philippe Starck with Sergio Schito

Kartell Cara Chair Black Beige by Philippe Starck with Sergio Schito

By Philippe Starck, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

In cara armchair, classically rigorous lines surround a comfortable seat. The perfect combination of formalism and technological innovation, for an original product with an industrial vibe that extends Kartell's range of soft furnishings...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric, Plastic

Model 4801 Armchair by Joe Colombo for Kartell, 1960s
Model 4801 Armchair by Joe Colombo for Kartell, 1960s

Model 4801 Armchair by Joe Colombo for Kartell, 1960s

By Kartell, Joe Colombo

Located in bruxelles, BE

Orange wooden armchair by Joe Colombo. The armchair is numbered. Dimensions: Seat height 34cm Wear due to time and age of the armchair. FOR SHIPPING, REQUEST US FOR RECEIVE THE BEST ...

Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Kartell Seating

Materials

Wood

Set of 2 Kartell Masters Chairs in Chrome by Philippe Starck & Eugeni Quitllet
Set of 2 Kartell Masters Chairs in Chrome by Philippe Starck & Eugeni Quitllet

Set of 2 Kartell Masters Chairs in Chrome by Philippe Starck & Eugeni Quitllet

By Kartell, Philippe Starck

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The Masters chair is a powerful tribute to three symbolic chairs, re-read and re-interpreted by the creative genius of Starck. The unmistakable silhouett...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Set of 6 Chairs Mod. 4875 by Carlo Bartoli for Kartell, 1970s
Set of 6 Chairs Mod. 4875 by Carlo Bartoli for Kartell, 1970s

Set of 6 Chairs Mod. 4875 by Carlo Bartoli for Kartell, 1970s

By Kartell, Carlo Bartoli

Located in Roma, IT

Injection-moulded plastic chairs realized by Carlo Bartoli for Kartell in 1970s. A complete set of six “4875” chairs designed by Carlo Bartoli for Kartell, an iconic example of Ital...

Category

1970s Italian Vintage Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Kartell Bubble Club 2-Seat Sofa in Green by Philippe Starck
Kartell Bubble Club 2-Seat Sofa in Green by Philippe Starck

Kartell Bubble Club 2-Seat Sofa in Green by Philippe Starck

By Philippe Starck, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

A veritable icon made by Kartell, the mass-tinted polypropylene Bubble club sofa was a Pioneer of a new concept in furniture accessories: the Industrial sofa made entirely of plastic...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Kartell Trix Sofa Bed by Piero Lissoni in Black
Kartell Trix Sofa Bed by Piero Lissoni in Black

Kartell Trix Sofa Bed by Piero Lissoni in Black

By Piero Lissoni, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Trix is made up of three different elements connected by an elegant system of elastics which can transform and adapt to different uses through easy rotation. Trix can be an original two-person pouf, a comfortable bed...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric, Plastic

Pair of Joe Colombo Chairs No. 4801, Black Plywood Wood, Kartell, Italy, 1960s
Pair of Joe Colombo Chairs No. 4801, Black Plywood Wood, Kartell, Italy, 1960s

Pair of Joe Colombo Chairs No. 4801, Black Plywood Wood, Kartell, Italy, 1960s

By Joe Colombo, Kartell

Located in Hausmannstätten, AT

A pair of "interlocking" lounge chairs by Joe Colombo for Kartell, Italy, manufactured in Mid-Century, circa 1963. Joe Colombo's iconic 4801 armchair was designed in 1963/1964. A mod...

Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Kartell Seating

Materials

Plywood, Wood, Bentwood

Kartell Madame Chair in Milan Print by Philippe Starck
Kartell Madame Chair in Milan Print by Philippe Starck

Kartell Madame Chair in Milan Print by Philippe Starck

By Kartell, Philippe Starck

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Thanks to its neutral colour palette, this chair makes the ideal furniture piece for inserting in sophisticated residential interiors or the most refin...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric

Dr. Glob Chairs by Philippe Starck for Kartell
Dr. Glob Chairs by Philippe Starck for Kartell

Dr. Glob Chairs by Philippe Starck for Kartell

By Kartell, Philippe Starck

Located in Palm Springs, CA

A pair of Dr Glob chairs for Kartell by Philippe Starck. Vintage 1980s. In good condition but age and use related scuffs and marks. These are two different com...

Category

1980s Italian Vintage Kartell Seating

Materials

Metal

Set of 2 Kartell Victoria Ghost Chairs in Glossy White by Philippe Starck
Set of 2 Kartell Victoria Ghost Chairs in Glossy White by Philippe Starck

Set of 2 Kartell Victoria Ghost Chairs in Glossy White by Philippe Starck

By Philippe Starck, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This is a chair born of classic lines with a rounded backrest that recalls the shape of antique medallions, whilst the seat is linear and geometric. Victoria ghost...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Kartell Pop Outdoor Armchair in Blue by Piero Lissoni
Kartell Pop Outdoor Armchair in Blue by Piero Lissoni

Kartell Pop Outdoor Armchair in Blue by Piero Lissoni

By Kartell, Carlo Tamborini, Piero Lissoni

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Pop outdoor is the modular sofa with evanescent profiles characterised by large seat and backrest cushions which make it soft and comfortable, made with fabrics conceived specificall...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric, Plastic

Philippe Starck for Kartell — Orange Eros Chair, Italy
Philippe Starck for Kartell — Orange Eros Chair, Italy

Philippe Starck for Kartell — Orange Eros Chair, Italy

By Philippe Starck, Kartell

Located in Voorburg, NL

Offered here is an iconic Eros Chair, designed by Philippe Starck for Kartell, Italy. This striking piece exemplifies Starck’s masterful balance of form, function, and futuristic ele...

Category

Early 2000s Italian Organic Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Chrome

Kartell Masters Counter Stool in White by Philippe Starck & Eugeni Quitllet
Kartell Masters Counter Stool in White by Philippe Starck & Eugeni Quitllet

Kartell Masters Counter Stool in White by Philippe Starck & Eugeni Quitllet

By Kartell, Philippe Starck

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Kartell also offers a stool version of the Masters chair, winner of the Good Design Award 2010 and the Red Dot Award 2013, and a worldwide best seller. The legs are lengthened and the seat is shrunk, but the frame's unmistakable graphic look, created by the weave of the silhouettes of three iconic chairs, remains the same. Masters Stool...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Kartell Bubble Club Armchair in Black by Philippe Starck
Kartell Bubble Club Armchair in Black by Philippe Starck

Kartell Bubble Club Armchair in Black by Philippe Starck

By Philippe Starck, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Bubble club armchair in light grey. Dimensions: height 30.75 in., width 40.15 in., depth 29.5 in.; unit weight 17 kg. Made of: Polyethylene. Outdoor use.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Set of 2 Kartell Masters Chairs in White by Philippe Starck & Eugeni Quitllet
Set of 2 Kartell Masters Chairs in White by Philippe Starck & Eugeni Quitllet

Set of 2 Kartell Masters Chairs in White by Philippe Starck & Eugeni Quitllet

By Kartell, Philippe Starck

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The masters chair is a powerful tribute to three symbolic chairs, re-read and re-interpreted by the creative genius of Starck. The unmistakable silhouett...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Set of 2 Kartell Re-Chair  in Black by Antonio Citterio
Set of 2 Kartell Re-Chair  in Black by Antonio Citterio

Set of 2 Kartell Re-Chair in Black by Antonio Citterio

By Kartell, Antonio Citterio

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Kartell is continuing its strategy of producing original products which combine sustainable materials with the latest production technology, offering new creative impulses based arou...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Kartell A.I. Bar Stool in Black by Philippe Starck
Kartell A.I. Bar Stool in Black by Philippe Starck

Kartell A.I. Bar Stool in Black by Philippe Starck

By Kartell, Philippe Starck

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Kartell continues its ongoing commitment to sustainability with eco-friendly products which are part of the broader project expressed by the industrial manifesto Kartell loves the pl...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Kartell Foliage Sofa Teal by Patricia Urquiola
Kartell Foliage Sofa Teal by Patricia Urquiola

Kartell Foliage Sofa Teal by Patricia Urquiola

By Patricia Urquiola, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Foliage collection is a family of soft chairs. The key players are a two-seater sofa and an armchair, that seem to have grown "naturally": the frame provides support for a comfortabl...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric

Kartell Eleganza Nia Missoni Chair by Philippe Starck
Kartell Eleganza Nia Missoni Chair by Philippe Starck

Kartell Eleganza Nia Missoni Chair by Philippe Starck

By Kartell, Philippe Starck

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Elegance and its discreet charm. Philippe Starck has re-thought the essential lines of Italian style with a timeless chair that combines the world of Haute Couture with bon ton. Dist...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric, Plastic

Kartell Louis Ghost Armchair by Philippe Starck, Clear Polycarbonate
Kartell Louis Ghost Armchair by Philippe Starck, Clear Polycarbonate

Kartell Louis Ghost Armchair by Philippe Starck, Clear Polycarbonate

By Kartell, Philippe Starck

Located in San Carlos, CA

A genuine example of one of the most recognized furniture designs of the 21st century — the Kartell Louis Ghost Armchair by Philippe Starck. Authenticity confirmed via molded maker's...

Category

Early 2000s Italian Post-Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Lucite

Set of 2 Kartell Venice Chairs in Glossy Rusty Orange by Philippe Starck
Set of 2 Kartell Venice Chairs in Glossy Rusty Orange by Philippe Starck

Set of 2 Kartell Venice Chairs in Glossy Rusty Orange by Philippe Starck

By Philippe Starck, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

A tribute to the city of Venice in a chair for both the table and the living room, which combines classic lines with comfort. Venice is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Kartell Bubble Club 2-Seat Sofa in Ochre by Philippe Starck
Kartell Bubble Club 2-Seat Sofa in Ochre by Philippe Starck

Kartell Bubble Club 2-Seat Sofa in Ochre by Philippe Starck

By Philippe Starck, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

A veritable icon made by Kartell, the mass-tinted polypropylene Bubble club sofa was a Pioneer of a new concept in furniture accessories: the Industrial sofa made entirely of plastic...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Kartell Ami Ami Chair in Glossy Black by Tokujin Yoshioka
Kartell Ami Ami Chair in Glossy Black by Tokujin Yoshioka

Kartell Ami Ami Chair in Glossy Black by Tokujin Yoshioka

By Kartell, Tokujin Yoshioka

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Inspired by the way pattern and texture interweave in a fabric, the Ami Ami chair (its name in Japanese literally means "to weave"), was born of designer's wish to reproduce one of the stylistic icons typical of his country - weaving. The simple squared off lines contrast with the richness of the weaving and this is achieved on the inner and outer surfaces through a complex industrial process which recreates the motif using a single mould. Available in crystal, smoke, glossy white, glossy black and Kartell red.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Set of 2 Kartell Lizz Chairs in Black by Piero Lissoni & Carlo Tamborini
Set of 2 Kartell Lizz Chairs in Black by Piero Lissoni & Carlo Tamborini

Set of 2 Kartell Lizz Chairs in Black by Piero Lissoni & Carlo Tamborini

By Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

A light, ultra-streamlined chair, so representative of the Minimalist and elegant style of its designer, Piero Lissoni. Made of a mass-tinted thermoplastic technopolymer, Lizz is manufactured in a single piece, using gas-blowing technology. Its name (from Liz Taylor) as well as the traditional chair...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Kartell Cat Walk Chair in Rusty Orange by Philippe Starck with Sergio Schito
Kartell Cat Walk Chair in Rusty Orange by Philippe Starck with Sergio Schito

Kartell Cat Walk Chair in Rusty Orange by Philippe Starck with Sergio Schito

By Philippe Starck, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Inspired by the world of haute couture and fashion shows, Catwalk is intended for both domestic and contract furnishings and is suitable for indoor and outdoor use.    

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Set of 2 Kartell Lizz Chairs in Grey by Piero Lissoni & Carlo Tamborini
Set of 2 Kartell Lizz Chairs in Grey by Piero Lissoni & Carlo Tamborini

Set of 2 Kartell Lizz Chairs in Grey by Piero Lissoni & Carlo Tamborini

By Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

A light, ultra-streamlined chair, so representative of the minimalist and elegant style of its designer, Piero Lissoni. Made of a mass-tinted thermoplastic technopolymer, Lizz is manufactured in a single piece, using gas-blowing technology. Its name (from Liz Taylor) as well as the traditional chair...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Kartell Spoon Adjustable Stool in White by Antonio Citterio & Toan Nguyen
Kartell Spoon Adjustable Stool in White by Antonio Citterio & Toan Nguyen

Kartell Spoon Adjustable Stool in White by Antonio Citterio & Toan Nguyen

By Antonio Citterio, Kartell, Toan Nguyen

Located in Brooklyn, NY

An original stool whose shape is as elastic in appearance as it is in function. The innovation of Spoon consists mainly in attaching the seat to a centr...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Kartell Uncle Jim Armchair in Black by Philippe Starck
Kartell Uncle Jim Armchair in Black by Philippe Starck

Kartell Uncle Jim Armchair in Black by Philippe Starck

By Philippe Starck, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The Uncle collection designed by Philippe Starck adds the Uncle Jim armchair. The armchair echoes the lines and sinuosity of Uncle Jack and lends itself to b...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Set of 2 Kartell One More Please Square Bar Stools in Green by Philippe Starck
Set of 2 Kartell One More Please Square Bar Stools in Green by Philippe Starck

Set of 2 Kartell One More Please Square Bar Stools in Green by Philippe Starck

By Kartell, Philippe Starck

Located in Brooklyn, NY

If you want to sip a drink at the bar in peace and quiet, you need a comfortable tall stool with a back to lean against. Sometimes one drink is not ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Crystal

Kartell Cara Outdoor Chair by Philippe Starck with Sergio Schito in Blue Orange
Kartell Cara Outdoor Chair by Philippe Starck with Sergio Schito in Blue Orange

Kartell Cara Outdoor Chair by Philippe Starck with Sergio Schito in Blue Orange

By Philippe Starck, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

In cara armchair, classically rigorous lines surround a comfortable seat. The perfect combination of formalism and technological innovation, for an or...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric, Plastic

Pop Missoni Sofa by Piero Lissoni
Pop Missoni Sofa by Piero Lissoni

Pop Missoni Sofa by Piero Lissoni

By Piero Lissoni, Kartell, Missoni

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Pop is the modular sofa with double cushion on the seat and armrests, making it soft, enveloping and even more comfortable. The armchair is also enhanced with side cushions, giving...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric, Plastic

Set of 2 Kartell Papyrus Chair in Olive Green by Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec
Set of 2 Kartell Papyrus Chair in Olive Green by Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec

Set of 2 Kartell Papyrus Chair in Olive Green by Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec

By Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Papyrus is a remake of the archetypal antique rush chair, from a time when chair structures were decisive and strong. This chair combines a transluc...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Set of 2 Kartell Charles Ghost Large Stools in Powder Blue by Philippe Starck
Set of 2 Kartell Charles Ghost Large Stools in Powder Blue by Philippe Starck

Set of 2 Kartell Charles Ghost Large Stools in Powder Blue by Philippe Starck

By Philippe Starck, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The shape conjures up stools of the 1800s and the line of the legs is rounded and slightly upturned, an icon of the classic high stool. Charles Ghost is constructed from a single blo...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Crystal

Kartell Hiray Armchair by Ludovica + Roberto Palomba
Kartell Hiray Armchair by Ludovica + Roberto Palomba

Kartell Hiray Armchair by Ludovica + Roberto Palomba

By Kartell, Ludovica + Roberto Palomba 1

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Hiray takes metal, one of the most important materials for the greening of the Kartell catalogue, and uses the welded wire process to shape it. The result is an essential and functional product that is nevertheless rich in emotion. Metal wires form well-defined yet lightweight structural parts of the collection’s chair...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Metal

Kartell Cara Outdoor Chair by Philippe Starck in Rusty Blue Orange
Kartell Cara Outdoor Chair by Philippe Starck in Rusty Blue Orange

Kartell Cara Outdoor Chair by Philippe Starck in Rusty Blue Orange

By Kartell, Philippe Starck

Located in Brooklyn, NY

In Cara armchair, classically rigorous lines surround a comfortable seat. The perfect combination of formalism and technological innovation, for an original product with an industrial vibe that extends Kartell's range of soft furnishings...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric, Plastic

Kartell Bubble Club 2-Seat Sofa in Light Grey by Philippe Starck
Kartell Bubble Club 2-Seat Sofa in Light Grey by Philippe Starck

Kartell Bubble Club 2-Seat Sofa in Light Grey by Philippe Starck

By Philippe Starck, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

A veritable icon made by Kartell, the mass-tinted polypropylene Bubble club sofa was a Pioneer of a new concept in furniture accessories: the Industrial sofa made entirely of plastic...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Kartell Madame Chair in Paris Print by Philippe Starck
Kartell Madame Chair in Paris Print by Philippe Starck

Kartell Madame Chair in Paris Print by Philippe Starck

By Kartell, Philippe Starck

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Thanks to its neutral colour palette, this chair makes the ideal furniture piece for inserting in sophisticated residential interiors or the most refin...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric

Joe Colombo Chairs Sedia Universale 4867 by Kartell Vintage Made in Italy
Joe Colombo Chairs Sedia Universale 4867 by Kartell Vintage Made in Italy

Joe Colombo Chairs Sedia Universale 4867 by Kartell Vintage Made in Italy

By Joe Colombo, Kartell

Located in Vancouver, BC

A Colombo classic! It's safe to say these are making a comeback in modern interiors today and its sensibility can match well with a wide range of materialities. The design is also it...

Category

1970s Italian Space Age Vintage Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Kartell Pop Outdoor Sofa in Ikon White by Piero Lissoni
Kartell Pop Outdoor Sofa in Ikon White by Piero Lissoni

Kartell Pop Outdoor Sofa in Ikon White by Piero Lissoni

By Kartell, Carlo Tamborini, Piero Lissoni

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Pop outdoor is the modular sofa with evanescent profiles characterised by large seat and backrest cushions which make it soft and comfortable, made with fabrics conceived specificall...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric, Plastic

Kartell Masters Counter Stool in Titanium by Philippe Starck & Eugeni Quitllet
Kartell Masters Counter Stool in Titanium by Philippe Starck & Eugeni Quitllet

Kartell Masters Counter Stool in Titanium by Philippe Starck & Eugeni Quitllet

By Philippe Starck, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Kartell also offers a stool version of the Masters chair, winner of the Good Design Award 2010 and the Red Dot Award 2013, and a worldwide best seller. The legs are lengthened and th...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Kartell Cara Mat Chair Black Beige by Philippe Starck with Sergio Schito
Kartell Cara Mat Chair Black Beige by Philippe Starck with Sergio Schito

Kartell Cara Mat Chair Black Beige by Philippe Starck with Sergio Schito

By Kartell, Philippe Starck

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Cara is the living room armchair which combines the rigour of classic lines and the comfort of the seat, characterised by the large, high cushion which offers maximum comfort. Cara ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric, Plastic

Kartell Cara Chair Ivory White Beige by Philippe Starck with Sergio Schito
Kartell Cara Chair Ivory White Beige by Philippe Starck with Sergio Schito

Kartell Cara Chair Ivory White Beige by Philippe Starck with Sergio Schito

By Kartell, Philippe Starck

Located in Brooklyn, NY

In cara armchair, classically rigorous lines surround a comfortable seat. The perfect combination of formalism and technological innovation, for an original product with an industrial vibe that extends Kartell's range of soft furnishings...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric, Plastic

Italian modern black white stools by Anna Castelli Ferrieri for Kartell, 1980s
Italian modern black white stools by Anna Castelli Ferrieri for Kartell, 1980s

Italian modern black white stools by Anna Castelli Ferrieri for Kartell, 1980s

By Kartell, Anna Castelli Ferrieri

Located in MIlano, IT

Italian modern black and white stools by Anna Castelli Ferrieri for Kartell, 1980s Pair of bar stools in different colors. One stool has round seat, padded and upholstered in white f...

Category

1980s Italian Modern Vintage Kartell Seating

Materials

Metal

Kartell Trix Sofa Bed by Piero Lissoni in White
Kartell Trix Sofa Bed by Piero Lissoni in White

Kartell Trix Sofa Bed by Piero Lissoni in White

By Piero Lissoni, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Trix is made up of three different elements connected by an elegant system of elastics which can transform and adapt to different uses through easy rotation. Trix can be an original two-person pouf, a comfortable bed...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric, Plastic

Kartell Pop Outdoor Armchair in Ikon White by Piero Lissoni
Kartell Pop Outdoor Armchair in Ikon White by Piero Lissoni

Kartell Pop Outdoor Armchair in Ikon White by Piero Lissoni

By Kartell, Carlo Tamborini, Piero Lissoni

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Pop outdoor is the modular sofa with evanescent profiles characterised by large seat and backrest cushions which make it soft and comfortable, made with fabrics conceived specificall...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric, Plastic

Model Eros Chairs, 12 Pieces, Philippe Starck, Kartell, Early 2000s
Model Eros Chairs, 12 Pieces, Philippe Starck, Kartell, Early 2000s

Model Eros Chairs, 12 Pieces, Philippe Starck, Kartell, Early 2000s

By Kartell, Philippe Starck

Located in Helsinki, Uusimaa

Model Eros chair (12 pieces sold separately), design Philippe Starck, manufactured by Kartell, Early 2000s. Aluminum frame, plastic seat (polycarbonate). Good vintage condition, pati...

Category

Early 2000s Italian Mid-Century Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Aluminum

Set of 2 blue 4794 armchairs, Gae Aulenti, Kartell space age plastic 1970s
Set of 2 blue 4794 armchairs, Gae Aulenti, Kartell space age plastic 1970s

Set of 2 blue 4794 armchairs, Gae Aulenti, Kartell space age plastic 1970s

By Kartell, Gae Aulenti

Located in Milano, Lombardia

Designed by Gae Aulenti for Kartell, the model 4794 armchairs represent one of his most famous forays into industrial design. Made entirely of lacquered foam plastic, these seats are...

Category

1970s Italian Space Age Vintage Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Kartell Pop Outdoor Armchair in Ikon Dove by Piero Lissoni
Kartell Pop Outdoor Armchair in Ikon Dove by Piero Lissoni

Kartell Pop Outdoor Armchair in Ikon Dove by Piero Lissoni

By Kartell, Carlo Tamborini, Piero Lissoni

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Pop outdoor is the modular sofa with evanescent profiles characterised by large seat and backrest cushions which make it soft and comfortable, made with fabrics conceived specificall...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric, Plastic

Kartell Pop Outdoor Sofa in Sunbrella Dove by Piero Lissoni
Kartell Pop Outdoor Sofa in Sunbrella Dove by Piero Lissoni

Kartell Pop Outdoor Sofa in Sunbrella Dove by Piero Lissoni

By Piero Lissoni, Carlo Tamborini, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Pop outdoor is the modular sofa with evanescent profiles characterised by large seat and backrest cushions which make it soft and comfortable, made with fabrics conceived specificall...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric, Plastic

Set of 2 Kartell Masters Chairs in Grey by Philippe Starck & Eugeni Quitllet
Set of 2 Kartell Masters Chairs in Grey by Philippe Starck & Eugeni Quitllet

Set of 2 Kartell Masters Chairs in Grey by Philippe Starck & Eugeni Quitllet

By Philippe Starck, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The Masters chair is a powerful tribute to three symbolic chairs, re-read and re-interpreted by the creative genius of Starck. The unmistakable silho...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Kartell Masters Bar Stool in Rust Orange by Philippe Starck & Eugeni Quitllet
Kartell Masters Bar Stool in Rust Orange by Philippe Starck & Eugeni Quitllet

Kartell Masters Bar Stool in Rust Orange by Philippe Starck & Eugeni Quitllet

By Philippe Starck, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Kartell also offers a stool version of the Masters chair, winner of the Good Design Award 2010 and the Red Dot Award 2013 and a worldwide best seller. The legs are lengthened and the seat is shrunk, but the frame's unmistakable graphic look, created by the weave of the silhouettes of three iconic chairs, remains the same. Masters stool...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Plastic

Kartell Cara Outdoor Chair by Philippe Starck with Sergio Schito in Ivory Blue
Kartell Cara Outdoor Chair by Philippe Starck with Sergio Schito in Ivory Blue

Kartell Cara Outdoor Chair by Philippe Starck with Sergio Schito in Ivory Blue

By Philippe Starck, Kartell

Located in Brooklyn, NY

In Cara armchair, classically rigorous lines surround a comfortable seat. The perfect combination of formalism and technological innovation, for an original product with an industria...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Kartell Seating

Materials

Fabric, Plastic

Kartell seating for sale on 1stDibs.

Kartell seating are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of plastic and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Kartell seating, although gray editions of this piece are particularly popular. We have 7 vintage editions of these items in-stock, while there is 331 modern edition to choose from as well. Many of the original seating by Kartell were created in the modern style in europe during the 21st century and contemporary. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider seating by Philippe Starck, Driade, and Gervasoni. Prices for Kartell seating can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $160 and can go as high as $11,900, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $869.
Questions About Kartell Seating
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 15, 2024
    The founders of Kartell are Italian chemical engineer Giulio Castelli and his wife, Anna Ferrieri. Kartell began as an industrial design firm, producing useful items like ski racks for automobiles and laboratory equipment designed to replace breakable glass with sturdy plastic. Even as companies like Olivetti and Vespa made Italian design popular in the 1950s, typewriters and scooters were relatively costly. Castelli and Ferrieri wanted to provide Italian consumers with affordable, stylish goods. They launched a housewares division of Kartell in 1953, making lighting fixtures, kitchen tools and accessories from colorful molded plastic. Buoyed by its success in the home goods market, Kartell introduced its Habitat division in 1963. Castelli and Ferrieri sold Kartell to Claudio Luti, their son-in-law, in 1988, and since then, Luti has expanded the company’s roster of designers. Shop a collection of Kartell furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024
    Kartell is made in Italy. The company has had its headquarters and factory in Noviglio, Lombardy, since 1967. The company was initially founded in Milan by Italian chemical engineer Giulio Castelli and his wife, Anna Ferrieri. It began as an industrial design firm, producing useful items like ski racks for automobiles and laboratory equipment designed to replace breakable glass with sturdy plastic. Shop a wide variety of Kartell furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Kartell is known largely for producing contemporary furniture out of plastic. The Italian company, founded in 1949, helped elevate the material, proving that it was suitable for designer furniture. You can find a collection of Kartell furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 21, 2024
    The history of Kartell starts with an Italian chemical engineer named Giulio Castelli and his wife, Anna Ferrieri. The couple founded Kartell in Milan as an industrial design firm, producing utilitarian items like ski racks for automobiles and laboratory equipment designed to replace breakable glass with sturdy plastic. Even as companies like Olivetti and Vespa were making Italian design popular in the 1950s, typewriters and scooters were relatively costly, and Castelli and Ferrieri wanted to provide Italian consumers with affordable, stylish goods. They launched a housewares division of Kartell in 1953, making lighting fixtures and kitchen tools and accessories from colorful molded plastic. Buoyed by its success in the home goods market, Kartell introduced its Habitat division in 1963. Kartell achieved international recognition for its innovative work in 1972, when a landmark exhibition curated by Emilio Ambasz called "Italy: The New Domestic Landscape" opened at New York's Museum of Modern Art. Castelli and Ferrieri sold Kartell to Claudio Luti, their son-in-law, in 1988, and since then, Luti has expanded the company's roster of designers. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of Kartell furniture.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 29, 2024
    The country that Kartell is from is Italy. Founded in Milan by Italian chemical engineer Giulio Castelli and his wife Anna Ferrieri, Kartell began as an industrial design firm, producing useful items like ski racks for automobiles and laboratory equipment designed to replace breakable glass with sturdy plastic. They launched a housewares division of Kartell in 1953, making lighting fixtures and kitchen tools and accessories from colorful molded plastic. Then, buoyed by its success in the home goods market, Kartell introduced its Habitat division in 1963. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of Kartel furniture.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 15, 2024
    To tell a real Kartell, look for the maker's markings. Nearly all authentic pieces will feature an embossed mark that indicates the Kartell name, the product name and the designer name. If your piece lacks any of these three marks or the marking is printed in ink on the piece or on a paper label, it may be a replica. You can also research identifying characteristics for your particular type of furniture and use these to evaluate your item. Alternatively, you can seek the opinion of a certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer. Find a variety of Kartell furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024
    Kartell chairs are made in Italy. Since 1967, the Italian furniture maker has produced pieces at its own factory in Noviglio, Lombardy. During the 1960s, Kartell transformed plastic from the stuff of humble household goods into a staple of luxury design, and plastic remains one of its best-known materials to this day. In fact, it is the material for some of its most iconic chairs, including the Ghost chair, designed by Philippe Starck, and the S chair, created by Verner Panton. On 1stDibs, find a large collection of Kartell chairs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024
    The history of Kartell furniture begins with Italian chemical engineer Giulio Castelli and his wife, Anna Ferrieri. They founded the company in 1949 as an industrial design firm, producing items like ski racks for automobiles and laboratory equipment designed to replace breakable glass with sturdy plastic. They launched a housewares division of Kartell in 1953, making lighting fixtures, kitchen tools and accessories from colorful molded plastic. The affordability and infinite range of styles and hues won devotees of Kartell’s ingenious designs for juicers, dustpans and dish racks. Kartell designer Gino Colombini was responsible for many of these early products, including the KS 1146 Bucket, which won the Compasso d’Oro prize in 1955. Buoyed by its success in the home goods market, Kartell introduced its Habitat division in 1963. In 1972, Kartell achieved international recognition for its innovative work when a landmark exhibition curated by Emilio Ambasz called “Italy: The New Domestic Landscape” opened at New York’s Museum of Modern Art. In 1988, Castelli and Ferrieri sold Kartell to Claudio Luti, their son-in-law, who has expanded the company’s roster of designers. Shop a collection of Kartell furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024
    How you clean Kartell plastic depends on the piece. Often, the best way to clean plastic furniture is with lukewarm water and mild dish soap. However, recommended cleaning methods vary. For the best results, refer to the manufacturer's care instructions that accompany your furniture. Shop a collection of Kartell furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 9, 2024
    Yes, Kartell is an Italian brand. Giulio Castelli and his wife, Anna Ferrieri, founded the company in Milan in 1949. Originally, Kartell was an industrial design firm, producing items like ski racks for automobiles and laboratory equipment to replace breakable glass with sturdy plastic. It first introduced its housewares division in 1953. Find a large selection of Kartell furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 9, 2024
    Yes, the Kartell Componibili is stackable. In fact, a big part of the appeal of the furniture collection is the fact that you can stack it up to create the ideal storage solution for your needs. Kartell first unveiled the Componibili line in 1967, and it remains popular today. Find a collection of Kartell Componibili furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Kartell Louis Ghost chairs are made of lucite. Designed by Phillipe Starck for Kartell in 2002, this clear chair is crafted from a single piece of plastic, making it a beautifully elegant piece. On 1stDibs, find a range of authentic Kartell Ghost chairs from top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 20, 2024
    The dimensions of the Kartell Invisible table vary by style. The high rectangular table measures around 15.75 inches in height by 15.75 inches in depth by 47 inches in length, while the low rectangle version is 12.4 inches high by 15.75 inches deep by 47 inches long. There is also a 39-inch by 39-inch square Invisible table available in 28- and 12.4-inch heights. On 1stDibs, explore a selection of Kartell Invisible tables.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024
    How big the Kartell Four table is varies. The rectangular dining table is actually available in four sizes. Its smallest version measures 62.5 inches in width by 31 inches in depth, and the largest is 87.5 inches long by 32 inches deep. Kartell also offers a 74.75-inch long option in two depths: 31 inches and 35.5 inches. All four size options are 28.25 inches tall. Shop a selection of Kartell dining tables on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 15, 2024
    Yes, many online reviewers state that the Kartell Masters chair is comfortable. Fans of the chair designed by Philippe Starck with Eugeni Quitllet frequently say that the unique shape of its back and its gently sloped seat together provide optimal support. However, whether or not any chair is comfortable is a matter of personal preference. Find an assortment of Kartell Masters chairs on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024
    Kartell started making plastic objects shortly after its founding in 1949. The company began as an industrial design firm, producing useful items like ski racks for automobiles and laboratory equipment designed to replace breakable glass with sturdy plastic. Even as companies like Olivetti and Vespa made Italian design popular in the 1950s, typewriters and scooters remained relatively costly. Kartell founders Giulio Castelli and Anna Ferrieri wanted to provide Italian consumers with affordable, stylish goods. They launched a housewares division in 1953, making lighting fixtures, kitchen tools and accessories from colorful molded plastic. Buoyed by its success in the home goods market, Kartell introduced its Habitat division in 1963. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of Kartell furniture.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 29, 2024
    Philippe Starck designed the Louis Ghost chair for Kartell in 2002. The chair is a postmodern take on the classic Louis XVI armchair, a style that emerged under the fraught reign of French King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette. This style represented the birth of neoclassicism in France and was characterized by a relative restraint compared to the Rococo flourishes of previous eras. The second half of the chair’s name refers to its materiality. It wasn’t Starck’s first plastic chair for Kartell, but it was the first time it could use a single polycarbonate plastic mold in the process, creating a structure completely free of joints. Formally, Starck distilled the geometry of his antique reference to its main elements: the oval-shaped backrest, curved armrests and straight legs. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Philippe Starck Louis Ghost chairs.