Step into the fascinating world of FabbricaPoggi. This isn’t just a building it’s a testament to Italian design. FabbricaPoggi in Pavia began its journey long ago. The Poggi family’s carpentry tradition started in the early 1900s. Luigi Poggi ran a workshop in Pavia. His son Carlo transformed the workshop into a factory in Pavia’s historic center in the 1940s.
In 1953 Carlo’s sons Ezio and Roberto moved the operation. They built a new factory on the outskirts of Pavia. This very building now houses FabbricaPoggi. The brothers’ early collaboration with architect Franco Albini was pivotal. It began at the Pirovano refuge in Cervinia. The Poggi brothers crafted furniture for the project. Their collaboration flourished. It led to mass production in the new factory.
FabbricaPoggi’s success is legendary. Their designs were showcased at the Milan Triennale. The PT1 Luisa armchair designed by Franco Albini won a Compasso d’Oro in 1955. This award marked a high point for FabbricaPoggi. The factory produced iconic pieces. The Luisa armchair remains a symbol of Italian design. Other notable designs include the TL2 trestle table the TN6 Cicognino side table and the PL18-PL19 Three-Piece armchair. These were created in collaboration with Albini and Franca Helg.
The brothers’ talent extended beyond collaboration. Ezio and Roberto designed furniture themselves. Their creations blended seamlessly with Albini’s style. The P4 steel desk and TL14 table are prime examples of their work. FabbricaPoggi’s success continued. They participated in the 1957 Milan Triennale. Their modular wardrobe even won a Silver Medal Diploma.
After Ezio’s death in 1962 Roberto led FabbricaPoggi alone. The partnership with Albini ended in the late 1960s. New collaborations emerged. They included Ugo La Pietra Vico Magistretti Afra and Tobia Scarpa and Marco Zanuso. Renzo Piano even visited the factory between 1968 and 1971. His modular system ideas weren’t implemented but the visit is notable. These collaborations highlighted FabbricaPoggi’s adaptability. They showcased the ability to work with diverse design styles.
The 1970s and 80s brought new innovations. La Pietra’s Globo Tissurato lamps were iconic. Magistretti’s work led to new wood bending technologies. The Golem and Barbettis chairs show this innovative approach. Zanuso’s focus was on simplicity and functionality. He also mentored young designers at FabbricaPoggi.
FabbricaPoggi’s production continued into the 2000s. They used high-quality woods like mahogany walnut and rosewood. Collaborations slowed down. Finding skilled workers became difficult. Around 2005 Roberto Poggi ended production. The factory officially closed in 2010.
After years of closure FabbricaPoggi reopened in 2022. It’s been renovated. It now showcases a permanent collection. FabbricaPoggi holds design architecture and art events. It continues to celebrate the rich legacy of Italian design. It’s a place to experience history creativity and the enduring impact of FabbricaPoggi.