'Picchio was designed to perform across a variety of settings without the need for alteration'

Picchio by Contardi reframes reading light typology through formal abstraction
Italian lighting manufacturer Contardi has introduced Picchio, a new collection designed by Alessandro Munge and presented as part of the brand's ongoing strategy to respond more directly to the contract sector. In an interview with InteriorDaily.com, General Manager Massimo Brigandì and designer Alessandro Munge outline the development of the product and the broader market shifts informing Contardi's current positioning.

Founded in Brianza, Contardi has operated for over two decades, evolving from a family-run business into an international lighting brand with an emphasis on integrating decorative and functional objectives. 'What sets us apart is our focus on creating lighting that's not just functional, but a real part of the design story,' says Massimo. 'We work closely with designers and architects around the world, especially in residential and hospitality projects, to bring their vision to life through light.'

A sculptural interpretation of task lighting
Conceived as a sculptural object, Picchio departs from standard reading light formats by referencing the poised posture of the woodpecker. Alessandro explains that the design was derived from 'the biomechanics of the woodpecker: its upright stance, controlled movement, and rhythmic interaction with its environment.'

This approach translated into a lamp typology that, while formally expressive, maintains a compact footprint and clean articulation. The collection includes both table and wall-mounted versions, with the articulation designed to offer directional precision without complex mechanisms.

'In contract and hospitality settings, lighting must integrate seamlessly into the architecture while offering a distinct point of view,' says Alessandro. 'Picchio was designed to achieve that balance… more than a source of illumination, it serves as a quiet architectural accent.'

Designed for spatial neutrality, not modularity
Rather than offering formal modularity or customisation, the collection was designed to work unmodified across a range of typologies. 'Picchio was designed to perform across a variety of settings without the need for alteration,' explains Alessandro. 'Its discreet scale, sculptural presence, and intuitive articulation allow it to be specified in residential and hospitality spaces alike while maintaining visual coherence.'

Material selection furthers this dual use. Offered in a full metal finish or a leather-wrapped version, Picchio can shift in tone depending on its context. 'The metal speaks to structural clarity and permanence, while the leather evokes craftsmanship and sensory engagement,' Alessandro adds. The diffuser, subtly shaped to echo a beak, delivers a directional beam while reinforcing the visual metaphor.

Contract strategy and operational challenges
The release of Picchio aligns with Contardi's broader engagement with the contract market. 'We've refined our strategy to meet its specific demands more directly,' Massimo says. 'That means developing products with the certifications, durability, and performance needed for high-traffic environments.'

To support this, the company has expanded both its technical team and logistics infrastructure. 'Whether it's a hotel, residential development, or retail space, we provide tailored lighting proposals,' Massimo adds. 'We've also grown our catalogue with solutions that meet specifier demands without compromising on performance.'

Challenges remain in areas such as material pricing and compliance. 'We're navigating fluctuations in raw material costs and global supply chain delays,' Massimo acknowledges. 'On the design side, one ongoing challenge is balancing aesthetic innovation with technical compliance, especially for the contract sector.'

Responding to spatially integrated lighting demands
Across both hospitality and residential segments, the market is shifting toward lighting that supports spatial integration. 'Specifiers are increasingly looking for lighting solutions that are both visually discreet and highly functional,' says Massimo. 'This trend has led to a growing demand for integrated, space-conscious lighting.'

According to Contardi, products with compact dimensions, architectural articulation, and surface-mounted options are seeing greater demand. 'We're seeing strong interest in modular systems and multifunctional fixtures that can adapt to different settings without dominating the space,' he adds.

Looking ahead
Contardi's 2025 programme will focus on expanding the reach of collections launched during Euroluce, including Picchio. 'Our focus will be on maximising their potential and strengthening their market presence,' Massimo says. The company also highlights ongoing collaborations with a number of international designers as part of its long-term R&D strategy.

'We are fully committed in pushing beyond the boundaries of lighting solutions,' Massimo concludes. 'Together with Picchio, we had the chance to collaborate with different international designers, giving life to a collection that is a full expression of Contardi's DNA.'

More information:
Contardi
Headquarters
Via A. Manzoni, 134/140
20811 Cesano Maderno – MB
+39 0362 301381
sales@contardi-italia.it
www.contardi-italia.com
Italy