The curtains and upholstery of the padded furnishings — from the stools to the pair of sofas and the flexible textile walls, bear the signature of Fischbacher 1819, an expression of deep commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability.
With over two centuries of experience in textile manufacturing, Fischbacher 1819 takes part in the Orizzonti project with fabrics that blend timeless quality, sustainable innovation, and refined aesthetic sensibility. The collaboration with Zanellato/Bortotto stems from a shared vision, where textiles become a tool for both storytelling and design. In this dialogue between tradition and contemporaneity, the brand shares its identity, exploring new living needs and the value of design that inspires and engages.
Interview with Camilla Fischbacher, Artistic Director of Fischbacher 1819
Why did the company decide to participate in the project?
Participating in the “Orizzonti” project by Brera Design Apartment represents a unique opportunity for us to collaborate with a highly regarded interior design studio, Zanellato/Bortotto, sharing a common vision on the interaction between design, art, and craftsmanship. We are committed daily to cultivating relationships with interior designers, architects, and artists to ensure our fabrics evolve in response to the ever-changing needs of the design world. This project allows us not only to explore new creative horizons but also to strengthen our presence in the vibrant heart of Milanese design, where our flagship showroom is located, serving both clients and Italian designers.
How has the concept of contemporary living changed for the company, and what are the elements at the base of developing new products?
In recent years, the concept of contemporary living has become more fluid and wellness-oriented, with growing attention to sustainability and the personalization of spaces. In response, we create collections that resonate across different markets while remaining true to our brand’s heritage, built on quality and innovation. As a global company, we carefully consider cultural influences, design preferences, and functional needs in each region. One of our key parameters is timelessness. Although trends constantly evolve, our fabrics must maintain their elegance and relevance over time. We achieve this by blending traditional craftsmanship with a contemporary aesthetic, ensuring every collection meets the needs of both traditional and modern interiors.
Material innovation is another crucial factor. With sustainability at the core of our philosophy, we continuously explore ways to integrate eco-friendly solutions. The challenge—and our passion—is to create fabrics that not only meet the highest aesthetic and performance standards but also align with the growing demand for responsible design. Finally, versatility is essential. Our collections must inspire architects and interior designers with a range of textures, colors, and finishes adaptable to various design narratives, from luxury to understated minimalism. This balance between tradition, innovation, and global adaptability defines our creative approach at Fischbacher 1819.
Which brand values do you see represented in the project?
In the “Orizzonti” project, we recognize our core values: artisanal excellence, aesthetic research, and respect for tradition. With over 200 years of experience in textile manufacturing, we understand the importance of quality, detail, and timeless design—qualities highly appreciated by architects and interior decorators like Zanellato/Bortotto. A key advantage is our ability to offer highly customizable solutions. Whether it’s bespoke colors, special finishes, or unique textile compositions, we work closely with designers to bring their creative visions to life. Our collections offer a diverse range of high-end fabrics, from classic elegance to contemporary minimalism, ensuring every project finds the perfect material.
Furthermore, sustainability is becoming increasingly important in architecture and interior design, and our BENU collection of recycled fabrics—widely used in the Orizzonti project—allows professionals to create luxurious environments while making environmentally responsible choices. By combining aesthetic excellence with sustainable innovation, we provide architects and decorators fabrics that satisfy both artistic and ethical needs.
What do you expect from this project?
We expect “Orizzonti” to not only strengthen our identity in the international design scene but also to inspire new perspectives on contemporary living. We hope visitors will appreciate the synergy between our fabrics and the spatial interpretation by the studio, sensing the harmony among materials, shapes, and colors.
How was it working with the Zanellato/Bortotto studio, and what aspects of their work and language do you identify with?
Collaborating with Zanellato/Bortotto has been extremely stimulating. For us, every project carried out with interior designers and architects is a unique journey: the continuous exchange of ideas, discussions, and the joy of solving problems together are deeply rewarding creative processes. We appreciate the designers’ ability to tell stories through design, creating environments that evoke emotions and reflections, and we always position ourselves as allies, ensuring each project finds the perfect material.
Fischbacher 1819, a Swiss family-owned textile company, is a leader in the creation of luxury upholstery fabrics, rugs, and wall coverings.
Founded in St. Gallen and led by Michael and Camilla Douraghy Fischbacher, the company combines tradition and innovation with a strong commitment to sustainability. For over two centuriA family-run Swiss textile company, it is a leader in the creation of luxury furnishing fabrics, carpets, and wall coverings.
