Wood Museum Riva1920

The undisputed centerpiece of the museum is the “Piano Antico” table, made from 48,000-year-old Kauri wood from New Zealand, measuring an impressive 12 meters long and enriched by a base in iron designed by architect Renzo Piano. Surrounding this masterpiece is an exhibition that includes over 5,000 pieces, documenting the evolution of woodcrafting techniques from the 17th century to the mid-20th century.

The collection includes authentic treasures such as a late 18th-century pedal lathe, multifunctional machines for woodworking, and even a large cart used to transport marble blocks intended for the construction of the Duomo di Milano. Each exhibited item tells a story of ingenuity, tradition, and innovation, making the Wood Museum a must-visit for design, craftsmanship, and history enthusiasts.

The museum also houses a series of books and testimonies related to Riva1920’s collaborations with some of the world’s greatest architects and designers. Among the displayed items are models of furniture from the early furniture fairs, where exhibitors presented miniature versions of their handcrafted furniture.

On the walls, you’ll find stories of extraordinary projects carried out by the company, such as “Ground Zero, Ground Heroes,” created to support the families of the Italian-American firefighters who died during the rescue operations following the 2001 Twin Towers attack, as well as the charity project for the Refettorio Ambrosiano in Milan, which saw the creation of 13 bespoke tables. Additionally, all the products born from the Briccole of Venice contest are displayed, with contributions from prominent designers such as Alessandro Mendini, Paola Navone, Pininfarina, Elio Fiorucci, and many others.

The Wood Museum is open during the Riva Center’s regular hours. Visits are free for groups of up to 4 people, while groups of 5 or more are required to book by emailing showroom@riva1920.it. Immerse yourself in a place that tells the history of wood, design, and craftsmanship, and let yourself be inspired by a unique and authentic experience. We look forward to welcoming you!