Franco Raggi: A Luminary in Italian Design and Architecture

The Early Years and Academic Background

Raggi graduated in architecture from the Politecnico di Milano in 1969. The same year, he began collaborating with Nizzoli Associati Studio, marking the beginning of his professional journey in design and architecture.

A Foray into Journalism

Between 1971 and 1976, Raggi served as an editor for the renowned architecture magazine “Casabella.” Later, he took on the role of editor-in-chief for the design magazine “MODO” from 1980 to 1983. His editorial roles enabled him to shape conversations around design and architecture during a critical period in Italian design history.

The Curator and The Designer

Franco Raggi has always been deeply involved in curatorial work. In 1973, he orchestrated the first critical show on Radical Italian Design for IDZ (Internationale Design Zentrum) in Berlin. His curatorship continued with contributions to the Milan Triennale and the Venice Biennale among others.

In terms of design, Raggi has created products for companies like Fontana Arte, Cappellini, and Luceplan. His On-Off lamp for Luceplan is part of MoMA’s permanent collection in New York.

Academic Pursuits

Raggi has been committed to sharing his knowledge and passion for design through academia. He taught at the Istituto Europeo del Design in Milan from 1989 to 2000 and has been a professor of Interior Design at the Florence ISIA (Higher Institute for Artistic Industries) since 2002.

Enduring Legacy

Raggi’s works are in permanent collections in several renowned institutions, including the FRAC Museum in Orleans, the Pompidou Center in Paris, and the Milan Triennale. He continues to live and work in Milan, contributing to the design and architecture landscape.