Italian design company Molteni&C celebrated the 100th anniversary of its kitchen division Dada Engineered with a retrospective exploring the evolution of the contemporary kitchen from technical workspace to integrated architectural environment.
© Molteni&C
The story of Dada began in 1926, when Angelo Garavaglia founded an artisan workshop in Marcallo, near Milan, producing durable furniture and functional kitchens. At the time, kitchens remained largely closed and technical spaces, separated from the social areas of the home. Following the Second World War, the company expanded production and introduced industrial manufacturing technologies, gradually shifting toward serial production of wardrobes and kitchens.
A major turning point came in 1972 with the creation of the Dada brand, followed by its integration into Molteni&C in 1979. This marked the beginning of a new phase focused on technological innovation, modularity and collaborations with influential designers including Luca Meda.
© Molteni&C
Over the following decades, Dada developed systems such as Vela, Nuvola, Banco, Tivalì, Hi-Line, Set and Trim, helping establish the company within the high-end kitchen sector. The brand increasingly approached the kitchen as both an architectural and social space, combining integrated functionality with refined materiality and minimalist design.
The company also expanded internationally through collaborations with globally recognised architects and luxury developments. Norman Foster selected Dada kitchens for Albion Wharf in London, while Giorgio Armani partnered with the company through the Armani | Dada brand for projects worldwide. Architects Herzog & de Meuron specified Dada kitchens for the residences at 56 Leonard Street in Manhattan, while additional projects included developments in Shanghai, Suzhou and New York's Waldorf Astoria residences.
Throughout its history, Dada also focused heavily on concealed technology and integrated systems. Innovations such as the rotating storage column and the patented Fold&Slide opening system transformed the kitchen into a multifunctional workspace while maintaining clean architectural lines.
© Molteni&C
More recently, creative director Vincent Van Duysen introduced collections including VVD and Ratio, characterised by monolithic forms, tactile surfaces and architectural precision. The latest concept, Physis, continues this direction through softer rounded geometries and a unified construction language across storage and kitchen elements.
According to Molteni&C, the anniversary reflected a century-long commitment to craftsmanship, innovation and the evolving role of the kitchen within contemporary living.
More information:
Molteni&C
www.moltenigroup.com
