History

One network, one design philosophy. Boffi|DePadova is known for its high-end integrated interior solutions that project sophistication and modern elegance. It tells the story of Boffi, De Padova, MA/U Studio, ADL and Time & Style ēdition.

Each has its own distinct identity, each represents Made in Italy design that never compromises on quality and is defined by a timeless aesthetic and functionality.

The ability to combine several different worlds together, entities that interact and coexist in a single context, ensures that the group is able to create connections between them to offer a unique and easily recognisable synergy within its product range.

Since its foundation in 1934, Boffi has become an icon of innovation and design for kitchen and bathroom, thus expanding its proposal of architectural solutions. Today, the international growth of Boffi|DePadova with its systems and furniture brands includes 24 direct showrooms as well as 50 indirect ones: one of a kind retail spaces that project a consistent interior vision.

De Padova showing for the first time, the models of Achille Castiglioni’s architecture and exhibits. “Effetto Castiglioni” A tribute to an unfamiliar side of Achille Castiglioni.

Maddalena De Padova wins the Compasso d’Oro for her career. The area of the ex-factory I.C.F. in Vimodrone, near Milan, is reopened, totally renewed and enlarged: home to the company’s headquarters. Patricia Urquiola and Nendo are part of the designers team. Maddalena De Padova completes the phase of transition in the company, passing the helm to her children Valeria and Luca, who further develop its managerial structure.

Pierluigi Cerri designs a series of displays for the De Padova shop windows, adding another unique aspect to the company’s style. Important steps are also taken in the contract sector. At the end of the ’90s the company begins to work with Renzo Piano on the furnishings of the cafe of the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris. This collaboration would continue in the future, with the furnishings for the Morgan Library’s restaurant in New York and the headquarters of Il Sole 24Ore daily newspaper in Milan.

De Padova cedes the ICF brand with the license to make Herman Miller products, and launches a line of furniture and objects under the De Padova trademark. “Edizioni De Padova” is founded, which would later become “è De Padova”, with the collaboration of great designers like Achille Castiglioni and Dieter Rams, and above all Vico Magistretti. The store on Corso Venezia is like an eye, open to distant worlds: that of the Shakers represents the high point.

After Fernando’s death, Maddalena De Padova runs the company herself, supervising production and distribution. Vico Magistretti begins his long collaboration with the company in this period, designing a collection of office furniture.

On a trip to Basel Maddalena De Padova happens to discover the Wire Chair by Charles Eames. A few months later, Maddalena meets the American company Herman Miller and acquires a license to manifacture the products designed by Charles Eames and George Nelson in Italy. Founding of ICF De Padova, with headquarters in Vimodrone for the production in Italy of the office furnishings of Herman Miller. The large showroom is opened at corso Venezia in Milan.

Fernando and Maddalena De Padova begin their business activities by importing Scandinavian furniture and objects, sold at the store on via Montenapoleone in Milan. This marks the debut of design from Northern Europe in Italy: a revolution that has had a permanent impact on our way of living.