Graduating in architecture from the Milan Polytechnic in 1986, Ferruccio Laviani has been a major force in the design direction of numerous Italian furniture and lighting companies, working across graphics, architecture, interiors and product design. Laviani's first major product commissions came from Italian lighting company Foscarini and since 1992 he has designed lighting that often recalls work by artists Miro or Calder evident in its strong geometric form and colour. Laviani has also collaborated with Italian fashion group Dolce & Gabbana, responsible for their Milan boutiques. Over the past ten years Laviani has developed an ongoing relationship with Kartell, creating a collection of new lights each year, and has been responsible for the interiors for their expanding retail presence.