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Manufacturer & Publisher
Vitra
Vitra's story began in 1950 when a Swiss couple, Willi and Erika Fehlbaum, took over a small furniture company in Birsfelden, Switzerland. From the outset, their ambition was clear: to create a bridge between American industrial innovation and European artisanal craftsmanship. This vision led them to partner with designers Charles and Ray Eames, pioneers in the use of molded plywood and plastic in furniture manufacturing. This iconic partnership marked the beginning of Vitra as a forward-thinking company, offering functional and aesthetic furniture with pieces like the famous Eames Chair.
In the 1980s, under the leadership of Rolf Fehlbaum, the founders' son, Vitra transformed into a true design icon. One of the most important moments of this decade was acquiring production rights to the works of French designer Jean Prouvé, known for his timeless industrial furniture. Rolf also collaborated with other renowned designers, such as Verner Panton and Jasper Morrison, to enrich Vitra's collection, which diversified with products blending comfort, modernity, and technical innovation.
Beyond furniture, Vitra also distinguished itself with its commitment to architecture. In 1981, after a devastating fire destroyed the factory in Weil am Rhein, Germany, Rolf Fehlbaum saw this tragedy as an opportunity to rebuild according to visionary architectural principles. Thus, the famous Vitra Campus was born, a collection of buildings designed by the greatest contemporary architects, such as Frank Gehry, Zaha Hadid, and Tadao Ando. The Campus has become an open-air museum and a pilgrimage site for architecture and design enthusiasts.
Today, Vitra remains true to its roots while looking to the future. Every Vitra product is a testament to its commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation. The brand continues to collaborate with renowned designers to create iconic and timeless furniture. More than just a manufacturer, Vitra embodies a design philosophy where art, function, and architecture meet to elevate the user experience.
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