Sitia and Matteo Pala Host Successful DESIGN TOMORROW Workshop in Tokyo

On the pleasant autumn day of October 17, 2025, Sitia, an Italian premium furniture brand, and Matteo Pala, a leading rug brand, hosted the DESIGN TOMORROW workshop in Tokyo at the P.O. Minami Aoyama Hall. This event was made possible with the support of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Japan and gathered approximately 70 participants, including interior designers, architects, and major developers. The workshop aimed to create a warm and communicative atmosphere that fostered valuable networking among attendees.

A Warm Welcome from IL DESIGN

The event kicked off with a warm welcome from Mr. Goda, representative of IL DESIGN, which serves as the Japanese general agent for Sitia. He expressed gratitude for the enthusiastic presence of Emanuel Battocchio, CEO of Sitia, and his team, highlighting their genuine passion for design.

Emanuel Battocchio began his presentation by greeting the audience with a big smile and a heartfelt message displayed on the projector: "GRAZIE GIAPPONE"—thank you, Japan. Reflecting on his experiences during his first visit to Japan in 2008, he shared important lessons about precision and care in customer service, which he believes are crucial for successful business.

The Story Behind Sitia

Emanuel shared that Sitia's roots can be traced back to Vicenza, a city close to Venice, where his father, Pergentino Battocchio, instilled a strong work ethic and craftsmanship in him. Many of Sitia's products are handcrafted without any automated systems, emphasizing the brand's dedication to artisanal quality. Their commitment to creating unique furniture pieces aligns with Emanuel's belief that every product must carry a story and character. He passionately expressed Sitia's mission, emphasizing the human connection in design with the guiding principle of "by people for people".

Innovative Furniture Design

Emanuel presented various furniture pieces that showcase Sitia's innovative approach. For instance, the side table with wheels, "Dondo", offers multifunctionality for various settings, whether in offices, homes, or cafes. Another highlight was the customizable table series "Armut", which allows clients to adjust the number of legs for personalization. Emanuel also passionately introduced the "Chantal" chair, designed by a previous generation, featuring a range of fabric options, including silk and velvet, to cater to diverse tastes.

Emanuel concluded his presentation by encouraging attendees to engage and ask questions during the networking time, reaffirming Sitia's commitment to meet customer needs with enthusiasm.

Matteo Pala: The Art of Rug Design

Next, Matteo Pala, CEO of Matteo Pala Rugs, took the stage. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with Emanuel and talked about the artistry behind rug design. Holding the audience's attention, he showcased a stunning video of colorful carpets on a gondola gliding through the serene canals of Venice. Subsequently, he discussed the handmade nature of his rugs and emphasized the brand's ability to customize designs based on client requests. One of the highlights included the "Mappe" series, which features carpets depicting maps—two colors of the "TOKYO" map were presented during the workshop.

Marco Magalini: The Vision for Future Design

Marco Magalini, the Creative Director of MM Company, wrapped up the presentations. Known for his deep appreciation of Japanese culture, Marco even donned traditional attire to express his respect to the attendees. He spoke passionately about the importance of enhancing the value of existing furniture rather than replacing it entirely.

He emphasized the designer's responsibility to create pieces that not only meet aesthetic desires but also contribute to the physical and mental well-being of users. He introduced various innovative designs tailored for modern lifestyles, including multifunctional furniture that accommodates space-saving needs.

As he explored future trends, Marco pointed out the growing importance of soft forms, natural materials, and ergonomic considerations in furniture design—showing that beautiful design can also support wellness and sustainability.

Creating Lasting Connections

Following the engaging presentations, attendees enjoyed networking opportunities, walking among the displays of Sitia and Matteo Pala products. The atmosphere buzzed with creative discussions about the displayed furniture and rugs, fostering connections between industry professionals.

As this inspiring workshop came to an end, it's clear that Sitia and Matteo Pala are committed to fostering stronger connections in the design community in Japan. This event not only showcased their exceptional craftsmanship but also emphasized their dedication to creating unique, relatable products that resonate with people.

IL DESIGN, as the general agent for Sitia in Japan, remains passionate about supporting these endeavors and bringing Italian craftsmanship to a broader audience.

For more information about Sitia's products, visit IL DESIGN's Sitia page or their online store at IL DESIGN Online.