A Memorable Visit To The Poltrona Frau Factory in Italy

I’m thrilled to share with you one of the most incredible furniture related experiences Kathy and I have ever had. Yes, it is a factory tour but this one is very unique not only because of the amazing location but also the passionate people and the century old superior craftsmanship. Unlike many of the factories that are based in the North of Italy near Meda or in the East near Venice, the Frau factory is in the rolling hills of Le Marche region that stretches for around 100 miles along the beautiful Adriatic Sea. If you have not yet discovered Le Marche region of Italy, it is definitely one of the country’s hidden gems, so please put it on your bucket list!

This area is one of the most picturesque regions of Italy, deeply connected to the sea with commanding panoramic views of rolling hills and snowcapped mountains; all of which create this exhilarating stimulus. It is also the birthplace of renowned opera composer Rossini as well as a major center of renaissance history. And don’t get me started on the distinctive wines and the authentic cuisine -the local stuffed olives and epic lasagna are a must try!

"It is amazing what they can create with their hands and some tools. - Michael Bush"

At first glance, the Frau factory looks like all the other factories in the Tolentino industrial area. But as soon as you walk through the front door, the sameness ends. We were immediately reminded that Poltrona Frau started as the furniture company for the baron and baroness, the movie stars of the golden era, and the wealthy dignitaries looking for a custom one of a kind piece of furniture. Frau has worked with some of the most accomplished designers and architects such as Gio Ponti, Piero Lissoni, Roberto Lazzeroni, and many more. The Poltrona Frau Group comprises Poltrona Frau, Cassina and Cappellini and is the leading international group in the high-end furniture market. Over the years Poltrona Frau Group has not only defined the contemporary living movement but also anticipated its evolution. Understanding the importance of being bold, challenging the rules, and ongoing experiment, made the Poltrona Frau Group a hub for the most influential international designers and architects.

A showroom at the Poltrona Frau factory

Over time, the company grew from strictly custom designs to the production of furniture for a larger customer base.  However, the core values never changed.

Perhaps the most insightful words that were said at the beginning of our tour:

“Our furniture is built by people that have intelligence in their hands.”

That statement was so true and kept being reinforced as we moved through various sections of the extensive production process that allowed us to experience the truly handmade furniture; we felt that we were part of Poltrona Frau’s legacy.

One of the original pieces made by Poltrona Frau

Founded in 1912, Poltrona Frau remains an iconic international brand name representing sophisticated expertise in hand-crafted craftsmanship that’s been perfected through time and continues to be passed down by master craftsmen from one generation to another. The superior craftsmanship has always been combined with extensive research to identify the most innovative materials in order to deliver timeless modern elegance.  They are masters of the tough act of balancing artisanal and industrial expertise.

Frau doesn't create furniture that you want, Frau creates furniture that you never dreamed was possible.