Maxalto was founded during this exciting time as a sister brand to B&B Italia. Created by Piero Busnelli, founder and CEO of B&B Italia to act as a counterpoint to his own somewhat radical brand, the first collection, launched in 1975, was designed by husband and wife team Tobia and Afra (née Bianchin) Scarpa. The Venetian couple had already collaborated with B&B Italia on the Coronado collection of seating (1966) and the Bonanza lounge chair (1969). Tobia was the son of Carlo Scarpa, one of Italy’s most venerated architects and he and Afra were perfectly placed to head the new brand’s creative direction.

Initially inspired by the rigor of the Bauhaus pioneers, Citterio turned to a less industrial and more luxurious style for his designs for Maxalto. An emphasis on simple geometric shapes and fully upholstered seating with a strong connection to traditional techniques was adopted. The work of inter-war designers like Jean-Michel Frank, who Citterio suggests '...softened the sometimes constrictive geometry of modernism' were important influences and helped him arrive at his own elegant and understated modern style. Citterio’s designs for Maxalto are often referred to as ‘modern neo-classicism,’ a delicate balance of traditional and contemporary aesthetics referencing classical Greek furniture as much as the design styles of the twentieth century.