Italian Manufacturers That Made Design History: From Tecno to Cassina

Manufacturing companies: the heart of Italian design

When we talk about post-war Italian design, we always refer to an inseparable pair: the designer and the manufacturing company. The great pieces of Italian modern antiques do not only originate from a designer's vision, but from a manufacturing company's ability to transform that vision into reality with precious materials and high-quality craftsmanship.

Knowing the manufacturing companies is essential for evaluating a piece: the label of Tecno, Cassina, or Simon Gavina is a guarantee of quality and authenticity.

Tecno — Milan

Founded by Osvaldo Borsani in 1953, Tecno is the manufacturing company that brought Italian design to executive offices worldwide. The P126 armchair from 1966 is its most iconic piece: ergonomic, adjustable, in leather and fiberglass. A masterpiece of functional design.

Arredamenti Borsani Varedo (ABV)

Before founding Tecno, Osvaldo Borsani worked in the family business: Arredamenti Borsani Varedo. ABV pieces from the 1940s-1950s are among the most sought-after in Italian modern antiques: sideboards, tables, and bar cabinets in mahogany, rosewood, and maple, built with extraordinary craftsmanship. The ABV sideboard with bar cabinet available in our catalog is a perfect example.

Cassina — Meda

Cassina is the manufacturing company that had the courage to produce re-editions of the great masters of world design through the I Maestri collection. The DS5 sideboard by Mackintosh is one of the most significant pieces in this collection: solid walnut, decorated glass, a faithfulness to the original design that makes it a collector's item.

Simon Gavina — Bologna

Simon Gavina was one of the most visionary producers of Italian design in the 1960s-1970s. He produced pieces by international designers such as Kazuhide Takahama, whose Tulu chairs are now among the most sought-after pieces of Italian modern antiques.

Arteluce — Milan

Arteluce is the benchmark manufacturing company for Italian design lighting. The Triana lamp by Perry King & Santiago Miranda (1985) is one of its most successful pieces: functional, elegant, with a strong visual presence.

Find pieces from great manufacturing companies at Dario Raia

At Dario Raia Vintage & Design, we select pieces from the most important Italian manufacturing companies. Explore the complete catalog.