Cassina, founded in 1927 by brothers Cesare and Umberto Cassina in Meda, Italy, is one of the most prestigious and influential furniture companies globally. Over the years, Cassina has become synonymous with quality, craftsmanship, and innovation, shaping the modern design landscape through collaborations with some of the greatest architects and designers of the 20th and 21st centuries. Their contributions have resulted in iconic pieces that have defined entire eras and continue to influence contemporary design.

History and Innovation

In the 1950s, Cassina took a revolutionary path by industrializing the furniture production process and collaborating with prominent figures like Le Corbusier, Charlotte Perriand, and Gio Ponti. This marked the beginning of a new era for the company, which successfully combined Italian craftsmanship with technological innovation, creating pieces that merged aesthetics and functionality in groundbreaking ways.

The transition to industrial production did not compromise the quality of Cassina's products but allowed the company to expand its reach internationally. Their ability to adapt to market changes and anticipate trends made Cassina a leader in the industry, capable of influencing global design.

Cassina’s Philosophy

Cassina’s philosophy is rooted in balancing tradition and innovation. The company doesn’t just reproduce classic designs but reinterprets them to meet contemporary needs, always with a focus on sustainability. This approach has kept Cassina relevant and at the forefront of design trends. Their meticulous attention to detail and use of high-quality materials underpin Cassina’s production philosophy, aiming to create products that stand the test of time both aesthetically and functionally.

Iconic Collaborations

Cassina has collaborated with some of the most renowned names in international design, creating a series of iconic pieces that have made history. Among these collaborations, the partnership with Le Corbusier resulted in the creation of the LC4 Chaise Longue, a symbol of modern design, while the collaboration with Gio Ponti produced the Superleggera, a lightweight yet strong chair that embodies the essence of functional design.

Another fundamental collaboration was with Vico Magistretti, who designed the Maralunga armchair for Cassina. This armchair, with its adjustable backrest, exemplifies Cassina’s ability to combine technological innovation and refined design. The Maralunga armchair is not just a piece of furniture but an experience in comfort that revolutionized the concept of relaxation.

Cassina Today

Today, Cassina continues to be a leader in the design industry, with a global presence that includes stores and showrooms in major cities worldwide. The company remains faithful to its heritage, continuing to collaborate with internationally renowned designers like Patricia Urquiola and Piero Lissoni while exploring new materials and technologies to stay at the cutting edge.

Cassina is also deeply committed to sustainability, a core value in its contemporary production. The company strives to reduce its environmental impact through the use of eco-friendly materials and low-impact production technologies. This commitment is reflected in every stage of production, from material selection to manufacturing processes and distribution.

Cassina represents the pinnacle of Italian design, merging tradition and innovation to create furniture that not only stands the test of time but also defines the concept of beauty and functionality. Choosing a Cassina piece means investing in an object that is both a work of art and a piece of design history, bringing the legacy of a brand that has continuously reinvented itself while staying true to its values into your home.

Insights: 

• The Maralunga armchairs
• Vintage Seating
• Vico Magistretti

Vico Magistretti is one of the most influential and respected Italian designers of the 20th century. Born in Milan in 1920, his career was marked by a deep understanding of architecture and design, honed during his studies at the Politecnico di Milano. Magistretti's ability to combine form and function led to the creation of some of the most iconic works of modern design, which continue to be celebrated for their timeless elegance and innovative functionality.

Education and Influences

After graduating in architecture from the Politecnico di Milano in 1945, Vico Magistretti began working in his father Pier Giulio Magistretti’s studio, gaining valuable experience in architectural design. His primary influences included Italian Rationalism and the Modern Movement, which shaped his approach to design, emphasizing simplicity, functionality, and accessibility.

The post-war rebuilding of Milan provided Magistretti with a fertile context to explore new ideas and apply his design philosophy. His early works were deeply connected to architecture, but he soon began experimenting with furniture and lighting design, where he gained international acclaim.

Iconic Collaborations

Throughout his career, Magistretti collaborated with some of the most prestigious companies in the design industry, including Cassina, Artemide, and Kartell. These partnerships produced a series of iconic pieces that have made history. The Maralunga armchair, designed for Cassina, is one of his masterpieces. This piece is a perfect example of Magistretti's approach, combining technological innovation with a clean and refined aesthetic. The Maralunga, with its adjustable backrest, represents a fusion of comfort and innovative design that redefined the concept of the armchair. 

Another significant piece is the Eclisse lamp, designed for Artemide. This lamp, which won the Compasso d’Oro in 1967, exemplifies Magistretti’s ability to reduce forms to their essence while maintaining strong expressive and functional qualities. The Eclisse's simplicity, combined with its innovative light modulation function through a rotating shade, makes it an icon of functional design.

Innovative Design

Magistretti was a pioneer in industrial design, experimenting with new materials and technologies. His ability to simplify complex forms and create objects that were both practical and aesthetically pleasing is evident in many of his works. An example of this innovation is the Selene chair, made of reinforced plastic for Artemide. The Selene represents a breakthrough in industrial design due to its lightness, durability, and potential for mass production, making it accessible and versatile.

Magistretti transformed everyday objects into works of art while always keeping functionality and user comfort at the center. His attention to detail and his ability to anticipate market needs made him a visionary designer capable of creating products that remain relevant and desirable even decades after their creation.

Awards and Recognitions

Over his career, Magistretti received numerous awards and recognitions, including several Compasso d’Oro, Italy’s most prestigious industrial design award. His works have been exhibited in the most important museums around the world, including the MoMA in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and are part of the permanent collections of many other prestigious institutions. These accolades not only attest to the quality and innovation of Magistretti's work but also to his lasting impact on the design world.

Magistretti’s Legacy

Vico Magistretti’s legacy continues to live on through the many design objects he created, many of which are still produced and appreciated worldwide. The Vico Magistretti Foundation, established in Milan, is dedicated to preserving and promoting his work, offering a comprehensive overview of his contribution to modern design. His design philosophy, based on the balance between form and function, remains a source of inspiration for new generations of designers and continues to influence the contemporary design world.

Vico Magistretti left an indelible mark on the world of Italian and international design. His ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary through a unique vision that merges innovation and tradition has resulted in objects that have become symbols of design. Studying Magistretti’s work means understanding the essence of good design, where aesthetics and functionality merge to create objects that improve daily life and continue to inspire even decades after their creation.

Insights: 

• The Maralunga armchairs
• Vintage Seating
• Cassina

The Maralunga armchairs, designed by Vico Magistretti in 1973 for Cassina, represent a perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality. These iconic pieces are known for their innovative design, characterized by a mechanism that allows you to adjust the height of the backrest for personalized comfort. Perfect for those who appreciate vintage design and timeless comfort, these armchairs continue to be a symbol of elegance. The original condition of the product, while showing slight signs of wear, testifies to the quality and longevity of the design.

History and Origins of the Maralunga Armchair
The Maralunga armchairs were designed in 1973 by the famous Italian designer Vico Magistretti for Cassina, one of the most prestigious furniture companies in the world. This project was born from a simple but revolutionary idea: to create an armchair that combines elegance, comfort and versatility. The Maralunga stands out for its innovative design, characterized by an adjustable backrest, a detail that offers a dual functionality: it can be used both as a low and comfortable armchair and as an armchair with a higher support for the head.

Unique Features of the Maralunga Armchairs
The Maralunga armchairs are not only an example of aesthetic design, but also of practical functionality. Their main feature is the patented mechanism that allows you to adjust the height of the backrest in a simple and intuitive way. This makes them perfect for adapting to the different needs of users, always offering maximum comfort. The sturdy structure and the high-quality materials used for their construction help to ensure their durability over time, making them a lasting investment for every design enthusiast.

The Importance of Ergonomic Design
Ergonomics is a fundamental aspect in the design of Maralunga armchairs. Vico Magistretti designed these armchairs with the well-being of the user in mind, with shapes that follow the lines of the body to offer optimal support. The adjustable backrest allows you to adapt the armchair to different postures, whether you want to read, watch television or simply relax. This focus on ergonomics not only increases comfort, but also reduces fatigue and the risk of postural problems, making these armchairs ideal for prolonged daily use.

Why Choose Vintage Pieces by Cassina
Choosing a vintage piece like the Maralunga armchairs means owning not just a piece of furniture, but a piece of design history. Cassina is renowned for its quality craftsmanship and its ability to create furniture that becomes icons of their time. Buying a vintage Maralunga armchair is an investment in an object that has not only maintained its value over time, but has also acquired an aura of prestige and authenticity. Not only do these pieces add character and personality to any space, they also represent a sustainable choice, promoting reuse and respect for timeless design. 

The Maralunga armchairs, designed by Vico Magistretti in 1973 for Cassina, represent a perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality. These iconic pieces are known for their innovative design, characterized by a mechanism that allows you to adjust the height of the backrest for personalized comfort. Perfect for those who appreciate vintage design and timeless comfort, these armchairs continue to be a symbol of elegance. The original condition of the product, while showing slight signs of wear, testifies to the quality and longevity of the design.

Vico Magistretti’s Design: Innovation and Tradition
Vico Magistretti was one of the most influential designers of the 20th century, and his work with Cassina helped define the aesthetic of modern design. With the Maralunga armchairs, Magistretti combined the tradition of Italian craftsmanship with a formal innovation that continues to inspire contemporary designers. The simple yet elegant lines of the Maralunga, combined with the functionality of the backrest adjustment mechanism, perfectly embody Magistretti’s design philosophy, where every detail has a precise functional and aesthetic purpose.

How to Integrate Maralunga Armchairs into Your Decor
Maralunga armchairs integrate perfectly into a variety of decor styles, thanks to their versatility and timeless design. They can be used as accent pieces in a modern living room, adding a touch of retro elegance, or placed in a more classic context to create an interesting contrast. Upholstery options, ranging from leather to fabric, allow you to further customize the look of the chairs, making them suitable for any color palette and aesthetic preference.

Investing in a piece like the Maralunga armchairs by Cassina means owning a piece of design history, combining beauty and functionality in a single solution. Perfect for vintage lovers, these armchairs are an ideal choice for those who want to furnish with style and personality.

Insights: 

• The Maralunga armchairs
• Vintage Seating
• Vico Magistretti
  
• Cassina