Kartell is a well-known Italian design company that produces furniture and home furnishings. Founded in 1949, the company has become a world-renowned brand. Kartell is known for its innovative designs, use of plastic materials and collaborations with famous designers. However, very few people know about the enigmatic figure, François Ghost, who played a significant role in the history of this company. This article delves into the story of Kartell and the ghost that haunted its success.
Kartell’s History
Kartell was founded in Milan, Italy, by Giulio Castelli in 1949. The company started as a laboratory for plastics and focused on producing various objects using this material. After Castelli’s death in 1968, his wife, Anna Castelli Ferrieri, took over the management of the company. She expanded the product line and collaborated with many famous architects, including Joe Columbo, Gae Aulenti, and Philippe Starck. Kartell’s products became must-haves for interior designers, architects and consumers worldwide.
The Enigmatic François Ghost
François Ghost is a name that few people in the design world have heard of. He was a French designer and researcher who worked closely with Kartell during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Not much is known about him, but according to Kartell insiders, François Ghost was a crucial part of the company’s success in those years. Interestingly, no one ever saw or met him in person. All communication was done through emails and phone calls.
The Legend of François Ghost
The legend of François Ghost goes like this – Castelli met him at an international design fair in Paris in the mid-1980s. The two struck up a conversation, and Castelli was impressed by Ghost’s extensive knowledge of plastic materials. Ghost supposedly shared his cutting-edge research on plastics with Castelli and asked to work for Kartell. Castelli agreed, and Ghost started working for the company in 1988.
The Ghost’s Role in Kartell’s Success
According to insiders, François Ghost’s contributions to Kartell were significant. He worked on some of the most successful products, including the Louis Ghost Chair by Philippe Starck, which has become an iconic piece of contemporary furniture. Ghost also reportedly helped Kartell reduce manufacturing costs and develop new materials that were cheaper and more environmentally friendly.
The Mysterious Disappearance
Despite his contributions, François Ghost disappeared suddenly in 1994. No-one has ever been able to find him, and there is no information available on what caused his disappearance. Some suggest that he was unhappy with the direction Kartell was heading in, while others believe that he was a spy who changed identities and moved to another country.
