Mention Artifort and Pierre Paulin immediately springs to mind. The brand and designer are inextricably linked. Their deep bond and collaborative history are legendary within the design world and each, undeniably, drove the other to greater heights of commercial success and critical acclaim. By the early 1960s Paulin's sculptural designs were so successful and sought after in the international market that Artifort's production facilities could barely keep up with demand. French presidents Pompidou and Mitterand commissioned Paulin to design interiors in the Elysee Palace in Paris, further amplifying his notoriety and significance as a visionary, multi-talented designer. Pierre Paulin continued to design and collaborate with Artifort until his death on June 13th, 2009 in Montpellier, France. In November, 2009 Paulin was posthumously awarded the prestigious title, "Royal Designer of Industry" by the Royal Society of the Encouragement of Arts, Manufacturers and Commerce. Today, Pierre Paulin designs are included in permanent collections of prestigious museums throughout the world.