In the fifties 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.
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. After Fernando’s death, Maddalena De Padova runs the company herself, supervising production and distribution.
In 2004 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.
De Padova Milano - mdw 2019 from De Padova on Vimeo.