Paolo Castelli embraces sustainability with The Greenkiss collection

Hubert de Malherbe, the undisputed master in the design of spaces for retail and hospitality, Thierry Lemaire, internationally acclaimed architect and designer, and Paolo Castelli, creative director and CEO of the Bologna-based company of the same name, recently announced the birth of a special project: GREENKISS, a capsule collection which made its international debut in Paris at Maison & Objet.

The collection comprises tables, armchairs, seats and light fittings, and reflects the finest Italian and French design of the 50s and 70s. An ethical collection resulting from the creative talents of designers Hubert de Malherbe and Thierry Lemaire, combined with the savoir-faire of Paolo Castelli. The quality of the materials, which are all either regenerated, recouped or ethically produced under strictly controlled conditions (fast-growing and second quality wood, recycled glass, stone, fabrics and concrete, natural fibres, sustainable ceramics), is enhanced by geometric styling, graphic details and asymmetrical proportions in an ironic and creative cut and thrust exchange between art and interior design.

Eco-responsible products which express not only the importance of the functional and aesthetic aspects of furnishings but also emphasise the value and charm of the way in which ethical design becomes the driving force behind a renewed sense of positivity and empathy towards the environment as a 'resource'.

Why Green? Because the furniture sector, unlike others, is still rather backward from an environmental point of view. Why Kiss? Many ecologists tend to be alarmists, this is why they have chosen a name that is positive and free of pointless complications, inviting all of us to take action. What are the limits of elegance when using surprising new materials, moulded into the purest forms? We leave it up to you to judge.