The History of Riva1920
More Than a Century of Excellence: The History and Evolution of Riva1920
It all began in 1920 in Cantù, in the heart of Brianza, in a small family-run artisan workshop founded by Nino Romano, specializing in the production of classic-style solid wood furniture. In the mid-1940s, Mario Riva joined the workshop, continuing the activity of his father-in-law. Following in the footsteps of their father and grandfather, brothers Maurizio and Davide Riva started working as carpenters in the home-based workshop in the late 1970s, focusing on custom-made furniture. This marked the beginning of an artisanal process that enhances natural wood using entirely natural waxes and oils, a distinctive feature of Riva1920. The first production unit was inaugurated in 1987, and the sister Anna joined the company. In 1992, Riva1920 presented its furniture collection for the first time at the Salone Internazionale del Mobile in Milan.
Alongside wood from controlled and programmed cuts, the company introduced reclaimed wood such as ancient Kauri from New Zealand, Briccole from the Venice Lagoon, and Lebanese Cedar.
In 2005, the second production unit was inaugurated, and in 2010, the construction of the Riva Center was completed, a building designed by Renzo Piano Building Workshop. The space houses a 1,200 sqm showroom on the ground floor and a Wood Museum on the first floor. In 2012, reclaimed wood from Barrique barrels was introduced, thanks to a collaboration with the San Patrignano Community.
In 2013, a third production unit specialized in cedar log processing was opened. In 2017, the second floor of the Riva Center was inaugurated, featuring the Pangea table—an iconic piece from Expo 2015 designed by Michele de Lucchi—and a xylotheque with woods from around the world.
In 2020, Riva1920 celebrated its centenary. Few companies worldwide can boast such a long and meaningful history, making it a symbol of excellence for those seeking high-quality, sustainable design furniture. This important milestone not only demonstrates the company’s strength but also its commitment to proudly continuing the Brianza tradition of furniture-making and woodworking.
Today, Riva1920 continues to look toward the future with an innovative vision while maintaining strong ties to its past, thanks to the presence of the fourth generation in the company. Alongside Maurizio Riva—third generation and current CEO—his daughters Monica, General Manager, and Elena, Creative Director, play a leading role. Together, they drive the company forward, blending tradition with modernity to create unique and sustainable furniture.
This fusion of experience and fresh perspectives ensures that Riva1920 remains a benchmark in the design furniture industry, moving forward with passion, dedication, and a clear vision of its path.
Timeline
In the heart of Brianza, in Cantù, Nino Romano founded his small artisan workshop specializing in the production of classic-style solid wood furniture.
Brothers Maurizio and Davide Riva chose to follow in the footsteps of their father and grandfather. They started working as carpenters in the family workshop, focusing on custom-made furniture and serving over 1,600 private clients. This marked the beginning of a long journey dedicated to enhancing natural wood and artisanal craftsmanship, which became hallmarks of Riva1920.
During a trip to New York, Maurizio Riva was introduced to the culture of wood. This led to the production of solid cherry wood furniture. It marked the beginning of a well-defined design identity that materialized in a product of the highest quality and naturalness, also thanks to the use of completely natural glues, waxes, and oils.
Entrepreneurial intuition led to major collaborations with internationally renowned architects and to Riva1920’s evolution into the world of eco-sustainable design. The entry of the latest generation into the company opened new markets and opportunities while maintaining the company’s core philosophy—balancing functionality and aesthetics without compromising on sustainable and healthy living. Alongside wood from controlled and programmed cuts, reclaimed wood such as ancient Kauri from New Zealand, Briccole from the Venice Lagoon, and Lebanese Cedar were introduced, emphasizing that wood is a renewable but not infinite resource.
This year saw the inauguration of the second production unit in Via Genova, Cantù, primarily dedicated to table production and the processing of Kauri wood.
A third, technologically advanced production unit dedicated to manufacturing cedar wood products was opened.
After the war, Mario Riva resumed his father-in-law’s business with a small team of workers. The production was based on classic models, creating prestigious pieces while respecting the traditions and craftsmanship of the Brianza woodworking school—Italy’s cradle of high-quality furniture.
The headquarters in Via Milano was inaugurated, employing around 30 people. At the same time, the sister Anna joined the family business, taking charge of the administrative department.
Riva1920 presented its collections for the first time at the Salone Internazionale del Mobile in Milan, beginning to establish itself in the Italian and international design scene.
Sustainability, design, research, social awareness, and cultural initiatives became an integral part of Riva1920’s activities.
The construction of the Riva Center was completed. This striking building, entirely clad in larch wood, houses a 1,200 sqm showroom on the ground floor, showcasing the essence and uniqueness of solid wood furniture. The first floor is home to a Wood Museum, exhibiting over 5,000 pieces, including machines and tools used in woodworking.
One hundred years after its founding, Riva1920 continues to be guided by the same philosophy: “To produce with honesty, ensuring furniture that stands the test of time while respecting the environment for future generations.” Staying true to its core values, the company has further solidified its identity as a manufacturer deeply rooted in tradition, culture, creativity, and innovation. Passion for wood and constant research shape the daily operations of a company where craftsmanship meets technology, and meticulous attention to detail results in something truly unique and in tune with modern market trends.
Riva1920 continues to move forward with an innovative vision while maintaining strong ties to its history, thanks to the involvement of the fourth generation in the company.
Alongside Maurizio Riva, third generation and current Chairman and CEO, his daughters Monica (General Manager) and Elena (Creative Director) contribute to the company’s evolution. Together, they blend tradition with modernity, creating unique and sustainable furniture.
This balance between experience and new energy ensures that Riva1920 remains a leader in the design furniture industry, shaping the future with passion, dedication, and a clear vision of its journey ahead.