Through a retrospective lens, we explore the Italian legacy of Molteni&C tracing its 90-year evolution and spotlighting the iconic pieces that have defined its narrative.
Molteni&C stands as a testament to the timeless power of design, evolving from a small artisanal workshop into a global icon of innovation and craftsmanship. Founded by Angelo Molteni in 1934, the brand’s 90-year journey tells a story of visionary leadership and a multi-generation family’s unwavering commitment to quality, under the guidance of esteemed Belgian architect Vincent Van Duysen as Creative Director.
The 90th-anniversary celebrations were marked by a series of exclusive events, exhibitions, and releases during Milan Design Week 2024 and paid homage to Molteni&C’s family founders while showcasing its gravitas on the global design stage. After reflecting on the brand’s metamorphosis and highlighting its seamless fusion of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary innovation, guests were guided through its storied history; from its artisanal origins to its present status as a symbol of design excellence. Highlights included an immersive and exclusive cinematic event at Hangar Bicocca.
ICONS is a celebration of Molteni&C’s rich heritage and enduring influence in the world of design. Bringing together a curated selection of iconic pieces that embody the brand’s commitment to seamlessly blending tradition with innovation. By reinterpreting archival works from legendary designers such as Gio Ponti and Jean Nouvel, ICONS honors the brand’s storied past while reflecting nearly nine decades of design evolution. “For the past 90 years, our culture of quality living has been shaped by profound collaborations with globally renowned designers. Today, we celebrate the hallmark designs of our brand, incorporating elegant echoes from the past as well as innovative visions for the future,” says Giulia Molteni, Molteni Group’s Chief Marketing Officer.
This selection includes four reimagined masterpieces: the timeless D.154.2 and D.151.4 armchairs by Gio Ponti, the Arc table by Foster + Partners, and the Graduate bookshelf by Jean Nouvel.
“We have collaborated with some of the most influential designers of the 20th and 21st centuries to embody a legacy of quality, style, and sophistication. The heirloom and tradition of our product development over the past 90 years have been pivotal to expanding the group.”
“It’s a huge responsibility, but it also comes with a lot of passion,” says Molteni&C Creative Director, Vincent Van Duysen, who regards Gio Ponti as a master in the Italian ‘art of living’. “Ponti was one-of-a-kind because he’s an architect who covered the entire creative spectrum with his interiors, exteriors, and product design,” adds Van Duysen. “I like how he did it in a very bespoke and unique way.”
Since joining the brand in 2016, Van Duysen has been instrumental in molding Molteni&C’s vision. “My blueprint for the brand’s future is to be faithful to the legacy created for the last 90 years, and then further develop it.”
Molteni&C Creative Director Vincent Van Duysen | Profile photography by Piet-Albert Goethals
