Since its debut in the 1970s, Alcantara has embarked on a unique journey, establishing itself as a symbol of Italian design, elegance, innovation and versatility.
The story of Alcantara began in the 1970s with a technological innovation that gave rise to a one-of-a-kind material, capable of combining functionality with aesthetic elegance.
Born from a Japanese patent and developed entirely in Italy, Alcantara immediately set out on a path of excellence that has made it, over time, a symbol of innovation and uniqueness.
In the 1970s, the world of fashion and luxury accessories was among the first to recognize Alcantara’s potential. Internationally renowned designers such as Gianni Versace and Walter Albini valued its versatility, beauty, and 100% Made in Italy quality.
Alcantara for Gianni Versace – VOGUE ITALIA, 1981
In the following years, Alcantara strengthened its presence through collaborations with leading fashion houses and designers such as Lanvin, Karl Lagerfeld, Y’s, and Swarovski, transforming artistic and stylistic visions into distinctive and exclusive products, capable of anticipating contemporary fashion trends.
1) Herno advertisement, 1980s
2) Max Mara, SS 2025
Starting in 1974, Alcantara made its debut in the automotive world, upholstering the interiors of the Lamborghini Bravo designed by Bertone: a concept car that marked a turning point in design and material innovation.
Lamborghini Bravo by Bertone, 1974
In 1978, Alcantara was also used in the Fiat X1/9, and a few years later, in 1984, Giorgetto Giugiaro chose it for the interiors of the iconic Lancia Thema.
From that moment, Alcantara became a benchmark for the most prestigious brands, including Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Porsche, and McLaren thanks to its distinctive qualities: soft touch, grip, durability, comfort, and unprecedented possibilities for aesthetic customization.
1) Alcantara interiors in the Lancia Thema, 1978
2) Alcantara interiors in the Maserati BiTurbo, 1981
From its debut in the 1980s to the most recent contemporary interpretations, Alcantara has also played a leading role in the interior design world through collaborations with prestigious brands such as Ligne Roset, Minotti, and Molteni&C.
Among the iconic products upholstered in Alcantara, the Togo modular sofa by Ligne Roset, designed by Michel Ducaroy in 1973, stands out. In the 1990s, it was reinterpreted in various Alcantara versions that enhanced its elegance and sensory appeal.
The Togo sofa by Ligne Roset in Alcantara, 1973
Beyond the most renowned furniture brands, Alcantara has brought to life the artistic visions of internationally acclaimed designers such as Giulio Cappellini, Marcel Wanders, and Nendo, translating them into design masterpieces. It has also taken part in numerous editions of Milan Design Week, presenting exclusive collaborations and immersive installations.
1) Cappellini – SChair by Tom Dixon, 1991
2) The Dream House of Alcantara – Milano Design Week, 2011
Alcantara entered consumer electronics around the 1990s, finding its place in hi-tech products such as headphones and speakers, and later expanding to smartphones, home devices, and laptops.
Over time, international brands such as RØDE, Samsung, TCL, and Motorola have chosen Alcantara for its ability to transform technological products into true design objects.
A significant chapter in this story is the collaboration with Microsoft: since 2017, Alcantara has upholstered the keyboards of Surface Laptop and Surface Pro devices, adding elegance and comfort.
1) Microsoft Surface Laptop, 2017
2) Nokia 7200, 2004
In the 2000s, Alcantara’s connection with art and culture was consolidated through prestigious collaborations with designers and leading international museums, including the MAXXI in Rome, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the Yuz Museum in Shanghai, and the Mori Art Museum in Tokyo.
Curators and artists such as Domitilla Dardi, Ross Lovegrove, Davide Quadrio, Alberto Biasi, and Patricia Urquiola have chosen Alcantara for its ability to combine aesthetics, tactility, and creative vision. The material becomes a true medium, a tool for fully expressing artistic imagination.
1) Nine Journeys Through Time. Yuz Museum Shanghai, 2019
2) LOCAL ICONS. Greetings from Rome. Progetto Alcantara – MAXXI, 2015
For over fifty years, Alcantara has been internationally recognized as a symbol of elegance and innovation, capable of transforming every product and surface into a unique visual and sensory experience. Its versatility spans fashion, automotive, interior design, and consumer electronics, confirming its role as a contemporary expression of Made in Italy excellence and as a material capable of turning visions into tangible realities.
