Few furniture brands have contributed as consistently to the evolution of outdoor living as Kettal. As the company marks its 60th anniversary in 2026, it reflects on six decades of quality, innovation and designs that have helped redefine the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Over time, outdoor furniture has evolved from purely functional pieces into architecturally considered collections designed to blur the boundaries between interior and exterior living, a shift that Kettal has helped pioneer.

Founded in 1966 and now led by the second generation of the Alorda family, Kettal has built an international reputation for combining technical innovation with a distinctly architectural approach to furniture. Developing a clear design language shaped by close collaborations with some of the most influential figures in contemporary design, including Patricia Urquiola, Doshi Levien, Nanna and Jørgen Ditzel, Vico Magistretti, Rodolfo Dordoni, Konstantin Grcic and Antonio Citterio.

These collaborations have played a defining role in shaping Kettal’s identity and in creating collections that continue to resonate.

To mark the anniversary, Kettal revisits a selection of nine iconic designs from across its history. Spanning chairs, sofas and tables, the pieces trace different moments in the brand’s evolution and highlight its ongoing dialogue with contemporary design.

Among them are both original works and carefully considered re-editions from the archive. Collections such as Basket and Loden demonstrate Kettal’s commitment to revisiting important designs and adapting them to contemporary technical and material standards while preserving their original character and intent.

Highlights from the Nine Icons of Kettal Design

Basket by Nanna & Jørgen Ditzel

Originally designed in the 1950s, the Basket chair stands as an icon of Danish modernism. Its sculptural woven form and enveloping silhouette combine artisanal craftsmanship with enduring comfort.

Maia by Patricia Urquiola

Maia marked Kettal’s first collaboration with Patricia Urquiola and a significant moment in the brand’s design evolution, combining artisan braiding with a lightweight aluminium structure.

The wider anniversary selection also includes designs such as Grand Bitta by Rodolfo Dordoni, Cala by Doshi Levien, Tilos by Antonio Citterio, Insula and Band by Patricia Urquiola, Kari by Konstantin Grcic and Loden by Vico Magistretti reflecting the diversity of creative voices that have shaped Kettal.

The collection is accompanied by a new photographic series that places these designs in dialogue with the human form, highlighting how they continue to exist naturally within contemporary spaces and everyday life.

“Sixty years offers an opportunity to look back at the designs that define our identity,” says Alex Alorda, CEO of Kettal. “Our collaborations with designers have always been central to the brand, and many of the pieces created through those relationships continue to shape how we think about living spaces today.”

The milestone also coincides with a new chapter for the brand in the region. Earlier this year Kettal opened its first Middle East showroom in Dubai on Jumeirah Street in partnership with Atelio.Joining flagship locations in Barcelona, Marbella, London, Paris, Casablanca, Miami and New York, the Dubai showroom brings Kettal’s Mediterranean design heritage into dialogue with the Gulf’s evolving architectural landscape and climate.

Six decades since its founding, Kettal remains committed to thoughtful design, responsible manufacturing and continuous development, looking ahead while acknowledging the designers and creations that have shaped its journey so far.

kettal.com | ateliospaces.com

Address: Kettal Showroom, Jumeirah Third, 352-964, Dubai, UAE

Telephone: 042367137