Italian artistry in the making, since 1959
From Italian craftsmanship to contemporary global lifestyle, Visionnaire redefines the art of living. A true icon of unique design, the brand works with a network of selected ateliers to create one-of-a-kind statement pieces and extraordinary bespoke solutions that stand the test of time, just like works of art.
Founded in 2004, Visionnaire was born out of a desire to combine fine Italian craftsmanship with a global outlook. Its roots date back to 1959, when Carlo, Pompeo and Vittorio Cavalli established IPE in Bologna, originally producing upholstery for the automotive industry. A natural drive for innovation, coupled with a strong industrial mindset, soon led the company into the world of furniture design: its first design piece was unveiled at the debut edition of the Salone del Mobile in 1961. The piece was the Mercury armchair, made of expanded polyurethane—a material rarely used in furniture at the time — based on a sketch by sculptor Rito Valla.
A contemporary lifestyle brand
A sought-after partner for those in search of tailored solutions—from exclusive private residences to contract spaces, from hotels to yachts—Visionnaire collaborates with a range of distinguished Italian and international designers–including Alessandro La Spada, Draga&Aurel, Studiopepe, Marco Piva, Mauro Lipparini, Steve Leung and m2atelier–to create pieces with a distinctive identity. Under the creative direction of Eleonore Cavalli, the brand has become an international icon, the embodiment of a contemporary lifestyle defined by the pursuit of beauty and individuality. Today, Visionnaire operates on a global scale, with flagship stores in major design capitals—Milan, London, Miami, Los Angeles, Dubai, Hong Kong and Shanghai—and an extensive network of monobrand stores and selected boutiques.
Italian soul
Visionnaire interprets Italian artisanal heritage through a collection of objects with a distinctive style, the result of ongoing experimentation with materials, unexpected yet harmonious shapes and iconic motifs that echo the brand’s legacy.
In every piece, craftsmanship is celebrated as one of the highest expressions of human creativity, bridging memory and innovation and further embodied through the company’s support of and collaboration with over forty specialized ateliers across Italy, following a model of distributed manufacturing. By placing raw materials in the skilled, passionate hands of expert artisans, Visionnaire is committed to building long-term relationships that help pass down artisanal know-how from one generation to the next and honor and support the legacy of local craftsmanship.
Unique artifacts
Visionnaire creates one-of-a-kind objects that stand the test of time, just like works of art. Crafted with rare materials and refined techniques, these collectible designs speak to those who see living as both an experience and a way of life. More than furniture pieces, they are objects of affection that enrich the lives of those who own them, imbued with stories, values and meaning. It is through the unspoken daily connection built with these inanimate objects that the concept of home becomes emotionally charged and takes on a deeper meaning.
A cultural dialogue
For Visionnaire, design is first and foremost a dialogue between cultures—one that originates in Italy and reaches out across the world. While the goal is to shape objects and spaces defined by universal beauty, the brand’s identity remains firmly anchored: presenting a vision of Italian elegance that draws inspiration from local sensibilities, embracing the genius loci—the spirit of place. This gives every design choice greater depth and meaning, allowing the final product to resonate with communities everywhere. Like a path of discovery, each project culminates in a space that not only reflects the client’s desires but also captures their true essence.
Sustainable excellence
A Benefit Company since 2021, Visionnaire has embarked on a conscious journey to reduce the environmental impact of its operations. The brand’s manifesto expresses the ethical and cultural responsibility behind every choice—whether it’s obtaining FSCTM Forest Stewardship CouncilTM FSC - C147146 and PEFC (PEFC/18-31-1067) Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification, which ensure the use of wood from sustainably managed sources; earning ISO 20121 for the sustainability of events and exhibitions; or achieving ISO 9001, reflecting its commitment to the highest production standards. Since 2022, this ongoing journey has been transparently documented in an annual sustainability report. Upholding authenticity and sustainability as core values, Visionnaire speaks to those who see luxury as a conscious choice—one that is meaningful, enduring and real.