In 2009, Queda and Ciarmoli began to work together; their first commission was for the interiors of a yacht, an area in which they have since gained considerable renown. Their years in the fashion world afforded them a natural transition to design, particularly in what Queda calls “the pursuit of quality and detail,” whether in a room, a piece of furniture, or an exhibition.

Although the fashion industry is, of necessity, trend-driven, the most important lesson that Ciarmoli and Queda learned from it is the importance of quality, fine materials and artisanal workmanship—which has a long tradition in Italy. Queda says that it is important to move beyond trends, and he adds that “there is a new kind of luxury, which is about comfort. It’s high time to bring back quality, of making and thinking, and design that has a purpose, to be effective.”