In the past 15 years, Antonio Larosa -as logical progression in his prolific career- decided to invest in new design talents by teaching design and direct design programs in Universities. Antonio’s approach was a collaborative and project-based teaching as he was preparing students for professional and commercial practice. For many years Antonio organized, arranged and sought sponsorship for study-trips to North America and Italy to visit design studios, galleries, museums as well as large and small factories. He also was instrumental in transforming the traditional classrooms into study/work areas for students and faculty. As professor and chairman Mr. Larosa revolutionized the study of furniture design in North America by breaking down the traditional barriers between practice and teaching, enriching the curriculum and connecting students to the real world of design. Mr. Larosa left the world of academia in 2011 but he still serves as a judge for design competitions and as a guest lecturer on a broad range of design topics. As a design visionary, Antonio has been the creator and driving force behind many unique design events in the US, including the Furniture Revolution Gallery at NeoCon, and the Furniture Design Summit, which was the first conference in the US dedicated to furniture design that united manufacturers, designers, and students.
