Arper Design Stories

S2 Ep. 3 — Catifa Carta: How to measure the impact of an innovation that goes beyond existing models?

In this episode, we explore how design can challenge existing models of measurement. Our Sustainability Manager Michela Possagno speaks with Sara Gransinigh, researcher at the University of Piemonte Orientale and sustainability consultant at Greenstep [https://greenstep.it/en/] Innovation and Sustainability, and IPLUS [https://i-plus.it/] Senior Consultant Nicola Fabbri about Catifa Carta [https://www.arper.com/en_GB/catifa-carta] — our iconic chair reimagined in PaperShell [https://papershell.se/]with a carbon-negative shell — and how to measure an innovation that goes beyond today’s standards. Through an open consultation with independent experts, we examined how to evaluate the life cycle of a truly pioneering material, inviting transparent and rigorous dialogue across disciplines. The conversation delves into biochar, pyrolysis, and the limits of current LCA/EPD rules, showing how Catifa Carta’s life cycle becomes a case study in innovation, transparency, and collaboration — one that could mark a turning point for the entire design sector. Download the Catifa Carta open LCA white paper on arper.com [https://www.arper.com/en_GB/blog/catifa-carta-an-open-consultation-to-validate-our-approach-to-sustainability.html].

S2 Ep.2 - How can research and material innovation redefine design — and beauty — for the future?

In this episode, we revisit ⁠Material Matters [https://materialmatters.design/], the UK fair that unites global brands, designers, makers, and manufacturers to discuss the future of materials and design. The conversation focuses on how design can support the circular economy and how manufacturers are responding to environmental challenges through research and innovative material choices. Barbara Cafagna, Marketing Manager at Arper UK, moderates a thoughtful discussion with Chris Webb, Head of Sustainability, and Lucy Bagshaw, Project Director at ⁠tp bennett [https://tpbennett.com/]⁠, a global architecture and design firm committed to sustainable practice. They are joined by Andrea Mulloni, Head of Sustainability at ⁠Arper [https://www.arper.com]⁠, continuing the dialogue begun at last year’s edition of Material Matters. Together, they reflect on the power of collaboration, the role of research, and the promise of material innovation in shaping a more responsible and beautiful future for design. Learn more at ⁠arper.com [https://www.arper.com/en_GB/blog/material-matters.html]

S2 Ep.1 - Redefining Beauty through circular design

Redefining Beauty is our intention — more than appearance, it’s a profound responsibility toward people and the planet. It’s a continuous pursuit: exploring new materials, developing innovative solutions, and rethinking processes. Last year, with Catifa Carta, we introduced PaperShell — a material innovation that redefined not just a product, but our way of thinking. That was just the beginning. Today, at Salone del Mobile 2025 [https://www.salonemilano.it/ ], we continue this journey. In this episode of a new series dedicated to exploring how redefining beauty can shape a more conscious future, we discuss our approach to developing circular solutions — from the reinterpretation of our iconic collection Catifa (RE) 46 in 100% recycled plastic, to new applications of PaperShell. Joining us are Anders Breitholtz, CEO and founder of PaperShell; [https://papershell.se/] Andrea Mulloni, Head of Sustainability; and Nicolò Fanzago, Head of Product Design at Arper [https://www.arper.com/en_GB/] — sharing their perspectives on how sustainability and design converge through circular materials and responsible production.

S1 Ep.9 - How does design foster dialogue with art and culture?

We explore this connection with Giulio Feltrin, Managing Director of the Arper Feltrin Foundation, and former resident artists at Villa Filanda Antonini [https://www.vfa.art] — Priss Niinikoski [https://prissniinikoski.com/], Xiao Zhiyu [https://xiaozhiyu.info], Davide Ronco [https://www.davideronco.com]. Together, we discuss how the VFA residency program —Arper Feltrin Foundation’s inaugural project, conceived, founded, and launched by Eliisa Korpijärvi and Giulio Feltrin — bridges contemporary art, design, and architecture, shaping a dynamic, sustainable future for art and culture. Learn more about the Arper Feltrin Foundation and the VFA Artist Residency Program at arper.com [https://www.arper.com/en_GB/arper-feltrin-foundation]

S1 Ep.8 - How does our past shape the future?

We invite you to discover the Arper Feltrin Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded in 2021 by Claudio, Mauro, and Giulio Feltrin with a mission to foster connections between contemporary art, design, and architecture through transdisciplinary dialogue, the Foundation is a space for cultural experimentation independent, yet in continuous creative exchange with Arper. This commitment comes to life through key initiatives such as the Arper Archive, which collects and interprets the company’s history, and Villa Filanda Antonini [https://www.vfa.art/], home to the Foundation’s artist residency program.   Join us for a conversation with Claudio Feltrin, Giulio Feltrin, Giulia Mela, and Marco Benvegnù as we explore how the Archive safeguards Arper’s legacy, nurtures a shared culture, and strengthens the connection between its local roots and the global cultural landscape. The conversation is held in Italian. Learn more about the Arper Feltrin Foundation and Villa Filanda Antonini - artist residency at arper.com [https://www.arper.com/en_GB/arper-feltrin-foundation] and vfa.art [https://www.vfa.art/]