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Spanish Design at Art Basel 2024 – The Story Behind by PET Lamp

It’s heartening to see a design narrative that doesn’t just skim the surface of aesthetic appeal. Here, sustainability and heritage serve as the core pillars rather than afterthoughts. This holistic approach—integrating technology, cultural roots, and environmental respect—is exactly what can elevate design beyond mere style.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Art Basel’s Design Miami, The Story Behind offered an immersive exploration of Spanish design’s ability to merge sustainability with innovation. This thoughtfully curated event, produced by PET Lamp and supported by Spain’s Ministry of Culture, unfolded as a celebration of heritage, creativity, and cutting-edge techniques. Anchored by an evocative installation designed by Maite Granda, the event featured a roundtable conversation that brought together leaders from Spain’s most prestigious design brands, including PET Lamp, Cosentino, Kettal, Kaymanta, and Riva. The discussion delved into the ecological and cultural foundations that guide their work, revealing how traditional craftsmanship continues to thrive in harmony with technological advancement.

"From heritage to the horizon, The Story Behind celebrates design’s transformative power"

This dialogue highlights a fundamental truth: design is not a solitary pursuit. Instead, it’s a collaborative process where distinct yet complementary visions converge. Seeing these top-tier brands openly exchange ideas underlines that meaningful progress often stems from collective insight rather than isolated innovation. Álvaro Catalán de Ocón, founder of PET Lamp, encapsulated the event’s ethos, sharing, “Our project transforms discarded plastic bottles into artisanal lamps, weaving a global narrative of sustainability and tradition. This event is a dialogue among key players, showcasing Spanish creativity in the Miami market.” PET Lamp’s approach is a clear testament that innovation often arises from resourcefulness. By literally illuminating the potential of discarded materials, they set an example for how design can drive environmental consciousness without sacrificing artistry. It’s a statement that sustainability can be graceful, not forced.

For Elizabeth Ramos, Marketing Director for Cosentino Americas, the conversation touched on deeply ingrained values. “Sustainability is in Cosentino’s DNA,” Ramos said, highlighting innovations like Dekton’s carbon neutrality and Silestone XM’s eco-conscious design. “This event celebrates what we stand for—honoring our heritage while shaping the future of design.” Cosentino’s forward-thinking approach, grounded in material innovation, reminds us that heritage isn’t static—it evolves. By melding time-honored sensibilities with contemporary technology, they demonstrate that environmental stewardship and design excellence are not mutually exclusive; they can—and should—coexist seamlessly.

"Where tradition meets innovation, Spanish design redefines sustainability for the modern world"

Riva, a brand synonymous with timeless elegance, also contributed to the dialogue. CEO Borja Iglesias emphasized the importance of tradition, stating, “Today we honor Spanish culture and design through history and artistry. This gathering bridges past and future, crafting a shared vision of excellence.” Riva’s emphasis on tradition isn’t about clinging to the past; it’s about using cultural depth as a springboard for futuristic thinking. Recognizing that authenticity and craftsmanship have enduring value ensures that as new materials and methods emerge, the soul of design remains intact.

Kettal and Kaymanta further enriched the narrative. Kettal’s legacy of outdoor furniture design, rooted in innovation and environmental mindfulness, underscored the event’s focus on merging function with form. Kaymanta, known for luxurious handmade rugs, demonstrated how artisanal craftsmanship remains relevant in modern sustainable design.

Through this convergence of industry leaders, The Story Behind illuminated how Spain’s design ethos reflects a broader commitment to environmental stewardship and cultural preservation. From PET Lamp’s innovative recycling initiatives to Cosentino’s architectural surfaces, the event exemplified how these brands transcend mere functionality, crafting pieces that embody purpose and artistry.

Beyond showcasing the objects themselves, the event fostered meaningful connections between the audience and the stories behind the designs. Attendees left not only inspired by the installations but also deeply aware of the ethos driving Spanish design on a global stage. Ultimately, the measure of success for such an event is in its ripple effect. By connecting hearts and minds to the narratives embedded in every product, we move design beyond the marketplace. We place it firmly into the realm of cultural dialogue, social responsibility, and a collective vision of a more sustainable future.