Thanks to the incredible team at Studio Italia, Nook Collections had the pleasure of visiting the main Artemide factory and headquarters, based in Pregnana, Milano.
We were warmly welcomed by Ginevra, Export Manager for the APAC and Africa regions, who guided us into the heart of Artemide’s world - a space where design history and innovation collided. Everywhere we looked, we were surrounded by iconic Artemide pieces, vintage treasures, and the latest designs. It was a feast for the eyes and the imagination.
The Factory Tour Begins
Before stepping into the factory, we all geared up with high - vis vests as Ginevra shared a little insight into Artemide’s world. Monica, who had visited over 10 years ago, immediately noticed how much had evolved since then - a true testament to the brand’s commitment to progress.
The site itself is impressive: around 200 people work here across the factory, R&D, design, customer service, and export offices. Artemide also operates another factory in Belgium, but this location is the heart of their architectural lighting production.
The white warehouses with their striking red doors stood out against the clear blue sky. Our first stop was where raw materials arrive and undergo their first round of quality control - ensuring only the best materials make it into production.
Crafting Light: The Making of Artemide
Ginevra explained that while this factory doesn’t produce every Artemide product, it is where most of the architectural lighting is made. Having the engineers on - site allows for constant quality checks and close collaboration across departments.
Once materials pass the first inspections, they move into cutting - with powerful machinery laser - cutting metal parts, and other materials like polycarbonate getting moulded into form. For example, parts for the iconic Tolomeo lamp are cut here before being sent to Hungary for final assembly.
Next, we visited the painting department, a vast space filled with hanging components in a rainbow of finishes. Seeing how many skilled hands touch each product during production was awe - inspiring. Every step - from cutting and moulding to assembling separate parts - was carried out with incredible care and precision.
And this was all before the final stages of quality control, where products are rigorously tested to ensure they meet Artemide’s high standards.
Quality, Sustainability, Innovation
Quality control is serious business at Artemide. The team is constantly pushing toward more sustainable practices by using better - quality materials and finishes. This not only improves product durability but also enables smarter manufacturing, such as flat - laying materials before bending them into their final forms.
We were taken through various testing rooms, including:
- A 35 - degree room to test product durability in heat.
- A moisture room to simulate humid conditions.
- A "shake" test area to assess how products hold up during shipping.
- A lighting lab to measure light output and performance. (A very very expensive machine)
A Museum of Light
Toward the end of our tour, we visited Artemide’s in - house showroom - a true museum of light. We explored decades of design, from classic architectural and outdoor lights to the very latest innovations set to launch in 2025.
Every table lamp, wall light, floor lamp, and pendant told a story - many resembling sculptures more than simple lighting fixtures. Artemide’s designs don’t just light up a space; they provoke emotion, spark creativity, and transform environments.
A Lasting Impression
What left the biggest impression on us was the passion and pride of everyone we met. The commitment to quality, design, and innovation radiated from every corner of the factory. We left feeling inspired, excited, and deeply honoured to represent and sell such an iconic brand.
Artemide is more than just lighting - it’s a legacy of excellence, and we are proud to be part of that story.
