Founded in 1949 by chemical engineer, Giulio Castelli, the company's first venture into plastic products was in the form of car accessories. Following this, they expanded into laboratory equipment in 1958, and finally home furnishings and furniture, which were introduced in 1963. After extensive research and innovative experimentation, a huge milestone came in 1999 when Kartell succeeded as the first ever company to produce furniture using polycarbonate. Still a signature element of the brand's collections today, this development led to the birth of transparent designs such as the Louis Ghost chair, which quickly became the most widely sold chair in the world.

Having received numerous international awards for its innovative and popular creations, as well as collaborating with some of the biggest names in contemporary design to reinvent the image of plastic products, Kartell has secured its position as an industry leader.

The company became best known for bringing attention to the beauty of transparent homewares and for innovating the use of polycarbonate. Now, in a huge step forward for the brand, a revolutionary component has been developed which allows Kartell to produce the same transparent pieces we know and love, but in a more environmentally friendly way. Obtained partially from vegetable waste, this new component is just one example of how Kartell is able to adapt to current climates.