Lapalma's story began in a small garage and expanded to international markets. What's the secret to this journey?
It all began in the early 1980s in Cadoneghe, in the province of Padua, where Dario and Romano Marcato began hand-building furniture in a garage. Before that, they had gained experience in precision mechanics, a wealth of skills that shaped their way of working. Since then, the company has never lost that spirit of commitment.
Concreteness, curiosity, and a desire to continually improve. Today they export to over eighty countries around the world."
Lapalma is best known for its office furniture. How has the office changed in recent years?
It has changed profoundly. The office is no longer just a place to work, but a space for relationships, meetings, and sharing. This is why we develop systems, tables, chairs, dividers, and accessories that can adapt to a wide range of needs, creating flexible and welcoming environments. Each product is designed to promote people's well-being and support the evolution of new ways of working.
Italian design is the hallmark of this company. What does it mean to design according to this philosophy today?
Design is never simply a matter of aesthetics. It means seeking balance between form, function, and construction quality. This means drawing inspiration from the Italian tradition of "beautiful and well-made," paying attention to every detail, even those that are normally invisible. Research is oriented toward clean lines, designed to last, avoiding passing fads and favoring objects that can accompany people's lives for many years.
Innovation is another element that characterizes Lapalma. How does it combine with your artisanal tradition?
Technology is a tool, not an end. The company has consistently invested in cutting-edge machinery and production processes, but without sacrificing the value of artisanal expertise. Many processes, from assembly to quality control, are still performed manually, because industrial precision and human sensitivity can coexist and strengthen each other.
Talking about design today inevitably means talking about sustainability too…
Sustainability isn't a recent trend, but a journey that began many years ago. It means choosing certified materials, reducing the environmental impact of production processes, investing in renewable energy, and designing products designed to last. At the Cadoneghe facility, we use solar and geothermal energy, and all stages of production are controlled internally, because quality also involves responsibility towards the environment and people.
In conclusion, what is the philosophy that guides Lapalma today?
It can be summed up in a simple concept: designing for better living. Every chair, table, and system is born from the idea that spaces influence the well-being of those who inhabit them. This is why the company continues to collaborate with international designers and invests in research while maintaining its strong manufacturing roots. The goal is not simply to make furniture, but to help create harmonious, functional environments capable of improving the quality of daily life.
