2023 marks the achievement of a prestigious recognition for Martinelli Luce: the inclusion of the company in the Registro Speciale dei Marchi Storici di Interesse Nazionale (Register of Historic Brands of national interest). The Register, established by the Italian Ministry of Economic Development to protect and enhance the productive excellences historically linked to the territory and registered for at least fifty years, collects just over 550 Italian brands (data updated to 9 May 2023, source Ministry Of Enterprises and Made In Italy, Uibm). The significant milestone for Martinelli Luce arrives a few days before the communication of the agreement between ADI Associazione per il Disegno industriale e Associazione Marchi Storici d’Italia (ADI Association for Industrial Design and the Association of Italian Historic Brands).

A step that marks the beginning of a collaboration between the two entities intended to promote design as a strategic lever in all production areas, not only nationally but also internationally.  The recognition of the historic brand confirms the relevant role that Martinelli Luce has assumed in the panorama of ambassador companies of Made in Italy in the world. For over seventy years, Martinelli Luce has been one of the reference lighting companies of Italian design, worldwide known thanks to continuous experimentation, research, technological development, innovation and the distinctive features of its projects. All factors have led the brand to always be in step with market demands and above the fashions of the moment, becoming a point of reference in decorative and lighting engineering.

Founded by Elio Martinelli in Lucca in the early 1950s, the company immediately stood out for the creativity of its creations: apparently simple objects, but full of personality, in which the redundant gives way to essential shapes, inspired above all from nature and geometry. For instance, Cobra lamp (Elio Martinelli) and the iconic Pipistrello (Gae Aulenti).

A bright world born from Elio’s pencil, enriched over the years by excellent collaborations with internationally renowned architects and designers, and today carried forward with the same passion by his daughter, Emiliana Martinelli, President and Creative Director, and by his nephew Marco Ghilarducci, Chief Executive Officer.

“I am very proud to have reached this important milestone which bears witness to the path of a company that looks to the future, rich in years of experience in the world of decorative and technical light, which has led it to establish itself and grow more and more in a constantly evolving sector. I extend my sincere thanks to my grandfather Elio for the great work he has done, always with passion and will, and to our entire network”, comments Marco Ghilarducci.

A long history featured by its unique way of interpreting the light has allowed the company to create timeless and functional lamps, always in balance with its distinctive principles. Some of these have been awarded different international awards, including the Compasso d’Oro, and have contributed to the history of lighting, now occupying a place in contemporary art or design history museums such as the MoMA in New York and the Milan Triennale. As evidence of an always innovative and avant-garde design, 2023 also rewards the Avro lamp, created in collaboration with Studio Natural, with the iF Design Award 2023. Captivating and useful, Avro is a family of iconic lamps that facilitate smart working and new domestic activities. Functionality, domestic appeal and a look to the future are the key themes that have guided the development of these two concepts. A further international acknowledgment confirms the company’s role as Made in Italy ambassador in the world.