Riva 1920
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.
Riva 1920
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.
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