Panerai CEO Angelo Bonati Talks Design, Miami And Design Miami/

Daniel Lalonde, CEO of Design Holding, discusses the company's vision and strategic plans, emphasizing its mission to be a global leader in high-end design by focusing on innovation, accessibility, and sustainability. Lalonde, who joined Design Holding in 2021, brings extensive experience from luxury brands like Nespresso and Louis Vuitton. His strategy aims to build a solid business plan and achieve global leadership in high-end design through a portfolio of complementary brands, reaching both designers/architects and end consumers via a multi-channel approach. The core of Design Holding's strategy is to allow its brands, such as Flos, B&B Italia, and Louis Poulsen, to maintain their individual heritage and DNA while fostering collaboration to leverage natural synergies. This approach has proven successful in expanding their contract business across retail, hospitality, corporate, and residential sectors. The company is committed to promoting organic growth within its existing brands while also exploring opportunities to integrate new brands that align with its high-end positioning and values. Accessibility to customers is a key pillar of Design Holding's growth strategy. Lalonde aims to make the high-end design experience less intimidating and more accessible by investing in an omnichannel approach that bridges online and offline interactions. This includes opening directly operated stores (DOS) and mono-brand stores in key global destinations like Miami, New York, Washington, Boston, Shanghai, and Tokyo. These physical spaces provide curated environments that inspire both customers and the architecture & design (A&D) community. For example, a new retail hub is planned for Manhattan’s Madison Avenue, and a B&B Italia Design Studio in Miami will showcase multiple brands. Over the next five years, Design Holding plans to pursue a four-point strategy: enhancing brand desirability through innovative products, pursuing a direct-to-consumer journey with more store openings and e-commerce investments, expanding geographical reach into North America, Greater China, and the Middle East, and strengthening its leadership in the high-end contract business. Illustrious examples of their contract work include projects for Bulgari Hotels and Rolex Stores. Sustainability is deeply ingrained in Design Holding's ethos. Lalonde emphasizes that crafting beauty must be done sustainably, viewing durability as a true embodiment of sustainability. The company challenges its brands to design long-lasting pieces with minimal environmental footprints, focusing on a circular economy model. This involves transforming frameworks and systems across the entire value chain, from sourcing and production to consumer use and end-of-life recyclability. Examples include the B&B Italia ‘Bambole’ collection and Flos ‘Almendra’ by Patricia Urquiola, which utilize recycled materials and facilitate recyclability. Additionally, Louis Poulsen’s 'PH 5' take-back scheme demonstrates a commitment to upcycling and reusing existing materials. Looking ahead to Salone del Mobile 2023 and Milan Design Week, Design Holding plans to showcase numerous new designs, with a particular focus on Maxalto. Flos will present new decorative and architectural designs at Euroluce, while B&B Italia and Fendi Casa will display their latest collections at their respective showrooms in Milan. The company's participation highlights its ongoing commitment to innovation and engagement within the global design community. #DesignHolding #DanielLalonde #LuxuryDesign #SaloneDelMobile #MilanDesignWeek #BrandStrategy #Sustainability #RetailExpansion #InteriorDesign

Design Miami/ Basel returned for its 13th edition, showcasing a diverse collection of new creative projects, iconic designs, and conceptual interpretations within the design genre. The event, held in the Herzog & de Meuron-designed fairgrounds, featured 43 international galleries representing modern and contemporary design, alongside ten special Curio presentations and large-scale installations, marking a significant celebration of both culture and commerce. This overview highlights several key installations and collections that captured attention. One notable presentation was the ‘(Con)temporary Home’ by Brazilian brand ETEL, designed by Italian architecture firm Superluna. This Collectors Lounge was conceptualized as a domestic environment, enclosed within a steel frame that subtly separated it from the fair's activity. The interior featured a curated mix of contemporary and historical Brazilian design pieces, complemented by photographs from Ruy Teixeira. A significant portion of the furniture offered to guests for relaxation, accompanied by champagne, included pieces by Jorge Zalszupin, honoring the Brazilian master on his 96th birthday. New York gallery Friedman Benda presented Nendo’s 'Watercolour Collection,' a series of 18 pieces designed to evoke the illusion of watercolor paintings on paper. Crafted from folded metal sheets, these objects utilized a special finishing technique to mimic paper, then hand-painted to create a light blue watercolor effect. The collection reimagined traditional furniture forms into abstract compositions, with the paint interacting with the shapes to produce a poetic, illusory quality. Belgian gallery Maniera collaborated with Dutch architect Anne Holtrop to present new works, including furniture, lighting, and accessories. These pieces formed micro-architectures that reflected Holtrop's distinct aesthetic, characterized by his unique sense of shape and material. Maniera's ongoing commitment involves commissioning architects to translate their signature styles into smaller-scale design objects. Design at Large, the annual initiative by Design Miami/ Basel, was curated by photographer François Halard in 2018. Halard explored the enduring impact of design through a series of nine diverse projects from the 20th and 21st centuries. The exhibition featured architectural elements by Jean Prouvé, interiors by Gaetano Pesce for the Dujardin children’s store, and a micro-architecture by RDAI. Halard's curatorial vision aimed to connect past influences with present and future design trends, emphasizing the continuity of ideas in art and design. ‘A New Layer Taiwan,’ presented by Spazio Nobile Gallery, showcased an initiative by the National Taiwanese Craft Research and Development Institute. This project fostered collaborations between Taiwanese craftsmen and international designers. Curator Lise Coirier brought together seven designers who worked with local artisans to produce a range of pieces, including ceramic works by Anton Alvarez and BCXSY, bamboo furniture by Sebastian Herkner and Jin Kuramoto, and lacquer objects by Julie Richoz and Wonmin Park. Olivier van Herpt, an Eindhoven graduate, presented 'Blue and White' for VIVID. This collection highlighted his unique ceramic 3D printing technique, which creates a distinct aesthetic. The series drew inspiration from the Delft tradition of blue porcelain, with cobalt pigment applied by hand before extrusion, resulting in a radial gradient pattern that symbolizes the collaboration between human interaction and machine precision. This project was initially commissioned by the Gemeentemuseum Den Haag. Calvin Klein made its debut at Design Miami/ Basel with an installation featuring Gaetano Pesce’s 'Feltri' chair, designed in 1987 for Cassina. The installation, inspired by a barn, was reinterpreted by creative director Raf Simons using vintage American heirloom quilts from the 19th and 20th centuries. It showcased 100 limited edition numbered chairs, marking a unique cross-disciplinary presentation. Lastly, 'Origins: Design from the Ancient World' was presented by Galerie Chenel and Oscar Humphries. Following his successful Curio installation from the previous year, Humphries, in collaboration with Paris’ Galerie Chenel, displayed Roman design for the first time at a design fair. The collection featured Greco-Roman artifacts, design, and architectural elements from 200 BC to approximately 200 AD, including columns, capitals, urns, and fragmentary sections from interiors and furniture. This exhibition aimed to introduce this material to a new audience and provide a fresh context, demonstrating the fundamental synergy and enduring influence of ancient design on contemporary genres. #DesignMiamiBasel #CollectibleDesign #ContemporaryDesign #DesignExhibition #ArchitecturalDesign #FurnitureDesign #ArtAndDesign #InteriorDesign #Craftsmanship

At the 2018 Milan Design Week, Italian architect Stefano Boeri unveiled a door handle named 'DUE', designed for DND, an Italian door handle company celebrating its 50th anniversary. The 'DUE' handle is conceived as a small piece of architecture, aiming to serve as a bridge between the human body, industrial design, and the broader architectural context. Its design reimagines the traditional relationship between the handle's grip and its attached plate, presenting both as a pair of slender, equally proportioned parallelepipeds. This approach elevates a common functional object into a significant design element, reflecting Boeri's architectural philosophy on a micro-scale. The initiative stemmed from DND's newly appointed artistic director, Giulio Iacchetti, who invited five Italian architects to develop unique door handle designs to commemorate the company's half-century milestone. Stefano Boeri was among the selected architects, tasked with infusing an architectural perspective into the design of a door handle. The result, 'DUE', stands out for its minimalist form and conceptual depth, aligning with Boeri's known focus on integrating natural and architectural elements in his larger projects. During Milan Design Week, an exhibition titled 'Handling Architecture' showcased Boeri’s 'DUE' alongside four other designs from notable architects: Alfonso Femia, Maurizio Varratta, Cino Zucchi, and 967 Arch. This exhibition was hosted at the Lualdi showroom, situated in the vibrant Brera Design District, and featured the five innovative door handles mounted on Lualdi doors. The installation, curated by Francesco Librizzi, allowed visitors to experience these designs in a contextual setting, highlighting how these small architectural components interact with the larger structure of a door and, by extension, a building. The project underscores the potential for everyday objects, like door handles, to embody significant design principles and architectural concepts. Boeri's 'DUE' handle, with its emphasis on pure geometric forms and its role as an interface between user and space, exemplifies a thoughtful integration of industrial design with architectural sensibility. It challenges the conventional perception of a door handle, transforming it from a mere utility into a tactile and visual component that contributes to the overall aesthetic and functional narrative of an interior space. The collaboration between DND and these prominent architects further illustrates a commitment to design innovation and the exploration of new possibilities within a seemingly simple product category. #MilanDesignWeek #StefanoBoeri #DND #DoorHandleDesign #IndustrialDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #ItalianDesign #GiulioIacchetti #ProductInnovation

Pininfarina of America, a multidisciplinary design studio, has recently opened its new headquarters in Miami, marking a significant expansion of its North American operations. This strategic move aims to enhance accessibility to projects in South America, where the company has seen a surge in collaborations. The Miami office, inaugurated on October 1st, 2024, is characterized by its glass-centric design, open-plan spaces, and lush surrounding greenery, with views of the sea, fostering an environment conducive to creative collaboration. The leadership team, including General Manager Claudio da Soller, Senior Vice President of Design Paolo Trevisan, and Chief Architect Officer Samuele Sordi, discussed their approach to design and recent projects in an interview. In 2024 alone, the firm unveiled several major projects, including the Primeclass Pacifico airport lounges in Santiago de Chile, the Unica residential tower in Buenos Aires, and the Maringa Tower in Brazil. These projects share a common thread: biophilic design, which Pininfarina of America interprets as more than just incorporating plants. Instead, it is an integrated approach that connects individuals with nature to improve their living environments. This is manifested through elements like rounded architectural edges, terraced plant arrangements, and facades inspired by natural water patterns, along with the use of natural materials like wood to create an earthy feel. Pininfarina of America's portfolio extends beyond architectural projects to include mobility, country club design, lighting design, and kitchen collections. In the marine sector, they designed the NX 44 boat, featuring expansive living spaces and connected interiors. For land mobility, they developed the Electric Transformer House, an RV with an expandable cabin and a solar roof. An automotive country club in collaboration with the Concours Club in Miami is also nearing completion, designed as an events campus and gateway to the club’s facilities. The firm also partnered with ARCO to create a nature-inspired kitchen collection, distinguished by its aluminum construction and curved glass pantry doors. Further demonstrating their diverse capabilities, Pininfarina of America is collaborating with VISO on a lighting installation for Design Miami 2024, themed around childhood dreams. This project aims to evoke a sense of wonder and reflection through sculptural lighting elements and a video experience. The team emphasizes that art is central to their design ethos, viewing architecture as a form of art and frequently collaborating with contemporary artists to gain new perspectives and deliver innovative solutions. The core design principles guiding Pininfarina of America include elegance, defined by harmonious proportions and attention to detail, and essentiality, which involves stripping away unnecessary complexity to achieve purity and clarity. They aim to humanize innovation by focusing on how people interact with and create memories within their designs, a philosophy championed by their founder, Paolo Pininfarina. The firm prioritizes projects that align with their vision for qualitative and innovative design, choosing clients who share their commitment to creating lasting, impactful solutions. Their high rate of repeat clients, nearly 70%, and a Net Promoter Score of 95, underscore their success in building strong, long-term relationships based on mutual respect and shared objectives. The company also emphasizes fostering a positive internal culture, as evidenced by its Great Place to Work certification for four consecutive years. #PininfarinaOfAmerica #BiophilicDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #DesignPrinciples #SustainableArchitecture #LuxuryDesign #MiamiDesign #CreativeCollaboration #HumanCenteredDesign

Fendi's participation in Design Miami 2024 features a capsule collection titled 'Aenigma,' created in collaboration with furniture designer Lewis Kemmenoe. This collection marks Fendi's continued presence at Design Miami since 2008, known for showcasing luxury craftsmanship and rich materiality through innovative collaborations. Kemmenoe's inclusion places him among a distinguished group of designers who have previously partnered with Fendi for this event, signaling his rising prominence in the design world. The 'Aenigma' collection encompasses three chairs, a wall panel, vases, lamps, a table, and a cabinet. These pieces offer a contemporary interpretation of modernism, integrating functional and sculptural elements. The designs combine organic materials such as wood, bark, alabaster, and stone with metals like aluminum and brass. A distinctive feature is the use of patchworked panels, which subtly allude to the outlines found in garment patterns. Kemmenoe's creative process for this collection was significantly influenced by a visit to Fendi's headquarters in Rome. During this trip, he explored iconic Roman landmarks like the Vatican and the Borghese Gallery. The grandeur of the architecture and the organic forms in Caravaggio’s art resonated with his artistic vision, validating and enriching his existing exploration of organic shapes and tactile materials. He found particular inspiration in the Vatican's relief sculptures, noting how the placement of elements within these spaces informed the arrangement of organic forms in his furniture. Further inspiration came from Fendi’s archives, where he discovered handbags featuring leather and wood panels that mirrored his material sensibilities, bridging traditional craft with modern design. Kemmenoe's journey into furniture design evolved from his background in fine art at Central Saint Martins and design at the Royal College of Art, followed by freelance work in film and architecture. The Covid lockdowns provided the opportunity for him to shift his focus from abstract sculptural work to more functional furniture. By 2021, his distinctive aesthetic, characterized by material-led, midcentury-inspired designs, had gained significant recognition. His design philosophy is intuitive, allowing materials to dictate the final form. Kemmenoe, who is not a conventionally trained carpenter, approaches design with a unique perspective, often subverting traditional expectations. His work balances functionality with a sense of intrigue, drawing inspiration from Japanese and American modernism, particularly the works of George Nakashima. He admires Nakashima’s approach to materials, allowing them to speak for themselves, a principle Kemmenoe integrates into his own practice by working with, rather than against, the natural properties of wood and other textures. Fendi granted Kemmenoe significant creative freedom for the collection, which he describes as both exciting and challenging. This autonomy required him to trust his instincts in realizing his vision. The collection explores the intersection of art and design, exemplified by the chairs produced in contrasting brass and aluminum versions, creating a visual dialogue between materials. This contrast between rough and smooth textures is central to his practice. The 'Aenigma' collection also includes organic-shaped lamps inspired by Isamu Noguchi's paper light sculptures. Crafted from backlit wood veneer, they emphasize the material's grain and create a soft ambiance. Kemmenoe also incorporates alabaster, a material with historical ties to Rome, into a series of vases for the collection. He expresses interest in future collaborations, specifically with Fendi Casa, and aims to expand his global presence. #Fendi #DesignMiami #LewisKemmenoe #FurnitureDesign #LuxuryCraftsmanship #Modernism #InteriorDesign #Materiality #SculpturalFurniture

The Miami Design District recently unveiled a permanent art installation titled _Nuage_, designed by the renowned French brothers Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec. This block-long pergola, characterized by its five cloud-shaped canopies, was installed amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Design Miami and Art Basel Miami Beach, attracting significant attention. The Bouroullecs explicitly stated that their design drew inspiration from Miami's distinct weather patterns, particularly the intense sun, strong winds, and frequent rain, aiming to provide both shade and shelter for visitors. The _Nuage_ pergola is constructed from stainless steel, with each canopy incorporating circles of blue or green glass. As the tropical sun moves across the sky, these tinted glass elements create dynamic and artistic shadow plays on the pavement below, adding an interactive and ephemeral dimension to the installation. The choice of materials and the integration of light and shadow reflect a thoughtful consideration of the local environment and its effects. In addition to the overhead canopies, the installation includes concrete vessels positioned beneath the pergola. These vessels serve a dual purpose: they function as seating elements for the public and provide a growing environment for Miami's indigenous plant life. The Bouroullec brothers highlighted these botanical elements as contributing to the city's "expressive plant life," emphasizing a connection between the artificial structure and the natural world. The installation's debut was part of a larger period of significant activity in the Miami Design District, which saw various cultural and commercial events. This included the presence of Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop brand pop-up and a collaborative abstract art exhibition by prominent figures Jeffrey Deitch and Larry Gagosian. The Bouroullecs' _Nuage_ distinguishes itself as a lasting contribution, designed to be a permanent fixture that enhances the district's public spaces. The combination of functional design—offering protection from the elements—and aesthetic appeal, through the cloud-like forms and light effects, showcases the Bouroullecs' signature approach to public art and urban furniture. The use of durable materials like stainless steel and concrete ensures the longevity of the installation, while the integrated plant life fosters a continuous evolution of the space. _Nuage_ stands as a testament to how art and design can thoughtfully respond to climatic conditions and integrate seamlessly into urban landscapes, providing a unique experience for residents and visitors alike. #RonanErwanBouroullec #MiamiDesignDistrict #PublicArt #PergolaDesign #UrbanInstallation #ArchitecturalDesign #ArtBaselMiamiBeach

Benjo Hamo, founder of Benjo Interior Design, discusses the journey and motivations behind establishing her own interior design business. After relocating from Tel Aviv, Israel, to Miami, Hamo sought creative autonomy to implement her design concepts fully. The establishment of Benjo Interior Design was driven by a vision for unique design and the pursuit of creative freedom, leading her to invest extensive effort in brand development, networking, and skill refinement. Benjo Interior Design specializes in crafting distinct, functional, and inspiring spaces, prioritizing designs that are both visually appealing and deeply personalized and practical. The company differentiates itself through its dedication to integrating contemporary aesthetics with innovative applications of textures, patterns, and materials, ensuring each project is unique. Hamo expresses pride in the client trust she has garnered, finding reward in the positive impact her designs have on clients' daily lives. She emphasizes the ongoing opportunity to innovate, whether by incorporating advanced technology or transforming underutilized areas into extraordinary spaces. Building the business in a new city presented considerable challenges, including establishing a brand, networking, and navigating an unfamiliar market. Hamo overcame these obstacles through unwavering passion and faith in her process. Key lessons learned include the understanding that success is a result of consistent effort, learning from setbacks, and cultivating strong professional relationships. She advocates for maintaining one's core vision while remaining open to collaboration and new ideas. Benjo Interior Design is portrayed as an extension of Hamo's passion for transforming environments and enhancing lives, a journey marked by calculated risks, reliance on intuition, and a continuous drive to create lasting design impact. When asked about showing a friend around Miami, Hamo outlines an itinerary that highlights the city's vibrant culture, diverse culinary scene, and inspiring design elements. The plan includes exploring neighborhoods such as Wynwood for its street art and Little Havana for its Cuban culture, alongside relaxation at Miami's beaches. As an interior design enthusiast, Hamo would also guide her friend through the Perez Art Museum Miami and the Art Deco District in South Beach to appreciate the city's architectural heritage. Dining recommendations feature Planta, a vegan restaurant known for its dishes and chic ambiance, reflecting Miami's dynamic energy. The overall aim is to provide an inspiring experience that showcases Miami's creativity, diversity, and vivacity. Hamo acknowledges Michal Shaish, an interior designer from Israel, as a significant mentor who profoundly influenced her career. Shaish provided essential guidance, encouragement, and shared knowledge early in Hamo's career, establishing the foundation needed to pursue her passion and entrepreneurial endeavors. Shaish's mentorship extended beyond technical skills, instilling confidence in Hamo to trust her instincts and foster creative thinking, lessons that continue to guide her work daily. Hamo expresses gratitude for Shaish's belief in her and the substantial impact she has had on her professional journey. #InteriorDesign #Entrepreneurship #MiamiLifestyle #CreativeFreedom #BusinessJourney #DesignInnovation #Mentorship #BenjoInteriorDesign

Draga Obradovic and Aurel K. Basedow, known as Draga & Aurel, are a design duo celebrated for their artistic approach to materials and composition, drawing influences from fashion to traditional craftsmanship. They are pioneers in upcycling, having started their journey by reinventing furniture and objects. An early open studio event, where people brought old furnishings for reinvention, quickly grew into a significant venture, leading them to establish Draga & Aurel in 2007. Their multidisciplinary studio and workshop focus on art, collectible design, and furnishings. Their debut at Milan Design Week two years later initiated collaborations with brands like Baxter, a partnership that continues to influence their design philosophy. According to Basedow, Baxter was instrumental in professionalizing their design approach. A significant milestone in their career was the launch of the Transparency Matters collection in 2019, which marked a departure from their earlier focus on vintage items and textiles. This collection utilizes resin as the primary material, valued for its interaction with light, and is continuously updated. Obradovic draws inspiration from everyday visual stimuli, capturing images to create mood boards that fuel her imagination. For their "Friday Five" feature, Draga & Aurel share five key inspirations. The first is artist Dan Flavin, whose work on light and color deeply resonates with their own. They admire his ability to transform a common object, the neon tube, into sophisticated art with a "maximalist" effect, despite its minimalist origins. They highlight a recent exhibition "Dedications in Lights" at the Kunstmuseum Basel, one of their favorite museums, and note a permanent installation in its yard. Secondly, they express their appreciation for Superduper, a "Made in Italy" brand from Florence known for its handmade hats. They are drawn to the brand's fresh, creative, and informal style, emphasizing that hats are essential accessories for both of them. Their third inspiration is Joseph Beuys, a German artist and sculptor and a significant figure in conceptual art. His quote, "Jeder mensch ein Künstler" (everyone is an artist), profoundly influenced their approach to painting and their belief in the universal expression of creativity. Beuys is also a reference point for expanding the meaning of art. The fourth point of inspiration is The Venice Venice Hotel. They describe Venice as a city that continually surprises them with its beauty. The hotel, housed in the renovated Ca’ da Mosto Palace overlooking the Rialto, is a synthesis of architecture, fashion, art, and design, showcasing influential avant-garde movements. It is an evocative place owned by the founder of Golden Goose. Finally, their fifth inspiration is their hometown, Lake Como. They find constant inspiration in this historic town, appreciating the peace, relaxation, and freedom the lake offers, particularly enjoying sailing and discovering hidden coves and villages. They feel fortunate to live in such a beautiful place. The article also showcases some of Draga & Aurel's works. The "Flare Collection," an exclusive project for Todd Merrill Studio, explores color and light refraction through Lucite, an acrylic resin. This collection is inspired by Jiyong Lee's study of color's three-dimensionality and Vasa Mihich's acrylic sculptures, focusing on the concepts of composition and breakdown of matter. It premiered at Design Miami in 2023. Their exhibition "Per Speculum in Aenigmate," in collaboration with Contemporary Cluster at Palazzo Brancaccio, Rome (2022), highlighted the dialogue between Aurel K. Basedow’s pictorial works and the duo's iconic design pieces. The exhibition title, drawn from a biblical passage, focuses on "mirror" and "enigma," reflecting their practice of material experimentation, artistic creativity, function, and aesthetics. The "Heritage collection" consists of one-of-a-kind upcycled pieces, born from their passion for vintage items. They collect original vintage furniture from thrift shops and markets, then reinvent them using techniques such as screen printing, embroidery, and resin covering, drawing from their backgrounds in fashion, textiles, art, and graphic design. Each item is restored in their Como atelier. Lastly, "The power of lighthearted design – Exhibition “Tinted Hues” at Nilufar, 2024" is a collaboration with Nilufar gallery, featuring a capsule of playful objects. This collection emphasizes resin, rounded shapes, and pastel shades, exemplified by their Bon Bon lamps, Dewdrops coffee tables, and Glaze table. #DragaAurel #DesignStudio #UpcyclingDesign #MilanDesignWeek #TransparencyMatters #DanFlavin #JosephBeuys #LakeComo #CollectibleDesign

Miami, often celebrated for its vibrant nightlife, also boasts a compelling daytime scene, especially its diverse and design-forward cafés. As Design Miami approaches, a curated list of coffee shops across Wynwood, Miami Beach, and Little Gables highlights establishments that offer not only excellent coffee but also captivating interior design, enhancing the city's creative pulse. Many of these cafés are integrated into renowned institutions like the Superblue Miami digital arts hub and the Frost Science Museum, making them cultural destinations in their own right. The article focuses on seven unique cafés, each presenting a distinct design aesthetic and culinary experience. Yann Couvreur Café in the Wynwood district translates the Parisian pastry chef's culinary artistry into a sophisticated tropical oasis. Designed by Charles Zana, the café reinterprets industrial and mid-century modern décor with glamorous touches, featuring organic tones, sculptural vegetation, and a stand-out mirrored entrance that brings the outdoors in. The blend of French and American cuisine offers a cosmopolitan appeal, with an all-day menu of French staples like fresh pastries, tartine saumon, and Niçoise salads. Façade, a newer addition in Coral Gables, combines Scandinavian-inspired interiors with a sourdough-focused gastronomic offer. Its design features a chic marble bar, tiled accent walls, and rougher elements like wooden cabinets and rattan baskets, bridging past and present aesthetics. The café is known for its high-hydration sourdough, French pastries, stuffed danishes, and specialty coffees like the honey-and-cinnamon-spiced café con leche, along with refreshing smoothies. Coffee@Science, located within the Frost Science Museum, provides a unique experience by integrating scientific themes into its design. William Lane Architect's vision incorporates molecular-like murals, spherical paper and wood lighting, velvety seating, and a 1970s-inspired warm color scheme. This café serves American-style food and drinks within an engaging atmosphere that lives up to the museum's scientific marvels. Blue Rider Café, situated within the Superblue Miami digital arts hub, extends the museum's experiential vision into the hospitality space. British-Nigerian artist Yinka Ilori designed the kaleidoscopic interiors, drawing inspiration from Miami's energy, architecture, and natural colors, as well as West Africa's vibrant textiles. The café offers rotating culinary and drink options from Miamian food trucks, fostering artistry, creativity, and positive societal discussions. Sadelle's at Kith Miami Design District offers a nostalgic, old-style diner experience with a lavish Art Deco design. Developed by Major Food Group in collaboration with Kith, the café features a pale pink and mint green palette with checkerboard floors, marble, chrome, and gold accents. It serves classic diner fare like pancakes, French toast, and breakfast sandwiches, complemented by a selection of cocktails, wine, and coffee, making it suitable for both casual meetings and special occasions. White Rose Coffee stands out as a multi-functional space, combining a coffee shop, tattoo studio, gallery, and nightlife venue. Founded by Javier Betancourt, the boldly decorated space features leathery mid-century modern furniture, original wall art, and photography. It serves specialty brews and pastries, hosts art exhibitions for local talent, and transforms into a lively nightlife spot with DJ sets, making it an inspiring remote working option with ample natural light. Pelican Cafe at Pelican Hotel caters to retro-inspired design lovers with sea-view interiors and Italian-style food. Designed by Renzo Rosso, the café boasts plush, neutral-toned furniture, palazzo floors, olive green walls, and an overall soothing, elegant ambiance. It offers mouth-watering breakfast dishes like Eggs Benedict and extravagant all-day dining options such as tuna and mango tartare. The evolving Miami coffee scene also anticipates new additions like Casa Nané in Brickell, promising modern rustic and boho-inspired interiors with an all-day brunch concept. #MiamiCafes #CafeDesign #InteriorDesign #MiamiTourism #ArtDeco #ScandinavianDesign #MidCenturyModern #ArtBaselMiami #HospitalityDesign

The Mr. C Coconut Grove Hotel in Miami, Florida, is a luxury boutique hotel designed by Arquitectonica and Martin Brudnizki. The hotel is a creation of Ignazio and Maggio Cipriani, who drew upon their family's extensive history in the hospitality industry to establish a new upscale destination in Miami. The design concept for the hotel is deeply rooted in nautical aesthetics, influenced by coastal Italian culture and the sleek, sophisticated interiors of yachts. This thematic approach is evident throughout the property, from its architectural details to its interior furnishings. Key design elements include the prominent use of high-gloss timber and lacquer detailing, which evoke the polished finishes often found on marine vessels. These materials are seamlessly integrated with mid-century Italian furnishings, creating a blend of classic elegance and modernist architectural style. The hotel's architecture and interior design work in harmony to transport guests to a setting reminiscent of luxurious Italian coastal living, infused with a contemporary Miami sensibility. The six-story structure houses 100 meticulously designed guest rooms, each reflecting the hotel's distinctive nautical and Italian-inspired theme. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, The Mr. C Coconut Grove Hotel also features a range of premium amenities. A notable highlight is the rooftop pool area, which offers private cabanas, providing an exclusive and relaxing retreat for guests. The hotel also boasts two signature Italian dining establishments, further enhancing the immersive culinary experience aligned with its Italian heritage. These restaurants are designed to offer a taste of authentic Italian cuisine within a refined atmosphere. Sustainability is a significant aspect of the hotel's construction and operation. The property has achieved gold-level LEED certification, indicating its commitment to environmental responsibility. This certification highlights the hotel's efforts in implementing sustainable practices, including the use of green energy-efficient lighting throughout the premises. The focus on sustainability demonstrates a forward-thinking approach, combining luxury with ecological consciousness. Overall, The Mr. C Coconut Grove Hotel stands as a testament to sophisticated design, drawing inspiration from rich family history and specific cultural influences. Its blend of nautical aesthetics, mid-century Italian design, and modernist architecture creates a unique and luxurious experience for visitors, complemented by high-end amenities and a dedication to environmental sustainability. #HotelDesign #NauticalAesthetics #MiamiArchitecture #ItalianDesign #LuxuryHospitality #SustainableDesign #BoutiqueHotel #MidCenturyModern #InteriorDesign

Daniel Lalonde, CEO of Design Holding, a prominent luxury multibrand group in the high-end interiors market, outlines his strategic vision for the company's future, focusing on making the experience of purchasing high-end interior products more accessible. Design Holding, established through Investindustrial's acquisitions of Flos (2014), B&B Italia (2015), and Louis Poulsen (2018), has expanded its portfolio to include nine brands, such as Maxalto, Azucena, Arclinea, Fendi Casa, Audo, and Lumens. This consolidation has positioned the group as a significant entity in design-led, luxury interior products, operating in over 130 countries with ten manufacturing facilities. Lalonde, who assumed the CEO role in late 2021, brings extensive experience from luxury multi-brand companies like LVMH, Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren, and SMCP. He acknowledges the transition from high fashion to interiors as a "leap of faith" but recognizes commonalities in heritage, craftsmanship, and the use of top designers. The company's brands collectively boast an extensive collection of works from celebrated designers, including modern classics by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni, Poul Henningsen, Arne Jacobsen, and contemporary pieces by Tobia Scarpa, Antonio Citterio, Philippe Starck, Naoto Fukasawa, Jasper Morrison, and Piero Lissoni, among others. The group also actively seeks emerging design talent. A key aspect of Lalonde's strategy involves shifting the sales model to be more consumer-centric. Historically, over half of Design Holding's business relied on wholesale channels. To address this, the company has opened a 25,000 sq ft retail center at 135 Madison Avenue in New York. Designed in part by Lissoni & Partners, this flagship store provides distinct spaces for each brand, offering a comprehensive multibrand experience. This move aims to engage architects and designers, who significantly influence furniture sales (up to 45% in the US), by providing an immersive environment for both professionals and consumers to make informed decisions. Technological advancements are also integral to the strategy, with new e-commerce platforms and a configurator app being developed for individual brands. However, Lalonde emphasizes the importance of physical interaction with products, which the Madison Avenue store facilitates. The company is also exploring other innovative showcases, such as the West Coast model home at the Mandarin Oriental Residences in Beverly Hills, which features B&B Italia products exclusively. Lalonde's role includes maintaining the distinct identity and character of each brand while fostering collaboration. He highlights the complimentary nature of the brands, noting, for example, the different design DNA between a B&B Italia sofa and a Maxalto sofa. Collaborative efforts among contract teams across brands are encouraged, especially for large projects. The group includes Italian brands (B&B Italia, Maxalto, Azucena, Flos, Arclinea, Fendi Casa), Danish brands (Louis Poulsen, Audo), and the San Francisco-based Lumens. Sustainability and ethical practices are central to Design Holding's environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) strategy. The company prioritizes product longevity, quality, ease of maintenance, and repairability. They also focus on sourcing sustainable and ethical supply chains, with benefits extending across all nine brands, such as sourcing wood from certified forests. The preservation of traditional manufacturing techniques and skills is also a priority, with investments in technical schools in Italy to ensure the continuity of craftspeople. The company is also targeting expansion into new markets, particularly Asia, where there is a large luxury market but a relatively nascent high-end design market. Plans are underway to open stores in China, as Design Holding aims to bring the enduring value of design to a global audience. #DesignHolding #LuxuryInteriors #FurnitureBrands #RetailStrategy #DanielLalonde #SustainableDesign #GlobalExpansion #DesignInnovation #Craftsmanship

The article profiles Brazilian artist and designer Danilo Reis, highlighting his unique approach to design that merges visual arts with craftsmanship. Reis's journey into design began at age 12 as a carpenter's assistant, fostering an early, intimate connection with materials and manual creation. He later pursued architecture but rediscovered his passion for woodworking, which he believes was crucial in developing his distinctive style. His work today is characterized by handmade wooden pieces that evoke memory and ancestry. The article focuses on Reis's new series, 'Ascensão,' which debuted at Vienna Design Week 2025. This marks a significant milestone as Reis is the first Black Brazilian designer to participate in the event. 'Ascensão,' meaning 'rise,' serves as a conceptual framework for materializing ideas, drawing inspiration from nature, architectural forms, and the ritualistic dimensions of everyday life. Reis was born in Penha, São Paulo, and comes from migrant families from Minas Gerais and Bahia, experiences that inform his designs, bridging ancestry with contemporary creation. He also founded AYO Escola de Marcenaria (AYO School of Carpentry). The 'Ascensão' collection features altars crafted from salvaged materials such as wood, stone, and ceramics. Reis imbues these pieces with 'spiritual power' and a 'decolonial discourse,' emphasizing spirituality as a source of strength for the African diaspora in the Americas. His creative process unfolds in three distinct stages. It begins with the meticulous research and selection of salvaged materials, including wood and tool fragments, which he views as fundamental elements of society's material base. His intention is to create altars that celebrate this heritage, effectively re-inscribing the presence and power of the energy offered to these materials. The second stage involves the application of his carpentry skills to construct the altars, which take the form of cabinets. The final and most intriguing stage involves ritualistic performances conducted by Reis to spiritually charge each piece. He describes this as the moment when an object transcends its physical form to become a 'vivified altar,' a consecrated item suggesting specific use. Reis’s work emphasizes the importance of personal energy and connection in his pieces, likening this energetic charge to that found in cherished family photographs or religious artifacts. He aims for users to form deep, personal connections with his creations, appreciating the materials, the evident signs of their making, and the spiritual performances embedded within them, thereby fostering new ways of interacting with design beyond its utilitarian function. #DaniloReis #BrazilianDesign #ViennaDesignWeek #SalvagedMaterials #AncestryInDesign #SpiritualArt #Carpentry #CulturalIdentity

Milan Design Week and Salone del Mobile 2024 provided a prominent platform for Japanese design, showcasing a diverse range of innovative creations from various brands. The event highlighted traditional craftsmanship integrated with modern aesthetics, spanning furniture, lighting, textiles, and art installations. Several key brands presented new collections and exhibitions across Milan, emphasizing unique materials and design philosophies. Karimoku Case, known for its woodworking and manufacturing precision, exhibited at Salone del Mobile with a theme of 'Natural Contrasts.' The exhibition, curated by architect Keiji Ashizawa, created a serene atmosphere with spaces designed to connect indoor and outdoor elements. A notable feature was the reintroduction of _keyaki_ (zelkova) wood, traditionally used in temples and shrines, into contemporary furniture, aiming to revive its popularity. Designs by Ashizawa, Norm Architects, and Norman Foster were prominently displayed, reflecting a holistic approach to furniture within specific project settings. Three other Karimoku brands also held separate exhibitions. Seyun, a collaboration fusing Zaha Hadid's futuristic designs with Karimoku's wood craftsmanship, unveiled a new side table, tray, and lounge chair, all crafted from single pieces of wood. Mas, creatively directed by Wataru Kumano, debuted in Milan with 'Project Hinoki,' an exploration of Japanese cypress wood, featuring minimal lights by Daniel Rybakken and low triangular tables by Ville Kokkonen. Karimoku New Standard, with David Glättli as creative director, presented its first solo show in five years, showcasing pieces like the Polar sofa by Moritz Schlatter and textiles from a collaboration with Reiko Sudo's nuno, all in an atmospheric artist's studio setting. The textile industry was represented by Hosoo, a centuries-old Kyoto maker, in collaboration with Michele de Lucchi. Their 'Mind Landscape Collection' explored forest aesthetics through four new textiles (Cedar, Red Elm, Red Oak, Afzelia) with motifs derived from macro photographs of wood fibers and satellite imagery, blurring the lines between wood and fabric. Issey Miyake's 'Fold and Crease' installation, created by Dutch collective We Make Carpets, featured 60,000 hand-dyed bamboo skewers forming an undulating abstraction, evoking an underwater landscape within the brand's flagship store. Sugiyama Furniture, specializing in solid iron craftsmanship, presented 'The Beauty of Lines,' showcasing the versatility of iron in minimalist interior products. Collaborations with Japanese creatives yielded pieces like Kazuteru Murasawa's Felice chairs, combining lightweight iron with organic leather details, and Fumie Shibata's Wall Deco series. Ambientec, a Japanese lighting brand, introduced Fotika, a hybrid portable and desk lamp designed by Kensaku Oshiro, inspired by the light filtering through ocean waters and crafted from a single piece of aluminum. Majotae, a Japanese hemp brand, presented Majotae 9490, a new line of bedding made from _tamai-fu_, a super-fine traditional hemp, with textiles displayed in natural dyes. The exhibition also showcased historical hemp artifacts and a live demonstration of traditional weaving. Stellar Works, a Japanese furniture brand based in Shanghai, returned with an expansive showcase inspired by Marco Zanuso, featuring new Neri & Hu products like the Qi collection sofas and the Taiko terrazzo table by Studio Stefan Scholten. Finally, Nagano Interior, making its Salone del Mobile debut, presented solid wood furniture crafted from materials like red oak and Japanese ash, embodying the concept of 'wa' or harmony, with pieces like the DT614 table and Corona chair. Ritzwell, another Fukuoka-based furniture maker, blended Japanese craftsmanship with functional design, showcasing the Constantino Armchair by Shinsaku Miyamoto and the MT Coffee Table, alongside new wood color shades Sohbobku and Gen. #MilanDesignWeek #SaloneDelMobile #JapaneseDesign #FurnitureDesign #TextileInnovation #LightingDesign #Craftsmanship #SustainableMaterials #InteriorDesign

The Milan-based design studio 6:AM, founded by Edoardo Pandolfo and Francesco Palù in 2018, is redefining the application and perception of Murano glass. The studio's name, 6:AM, signifies the moment the furnaces on the Venetian island are ignited daily, marking the continuation of a 700-year-old glassmaking tradition. Pandolfo, a Venice native, and Palù, an architect, aim to introduce Murano glass to a broader audience through a diverse range of products, including architectural installations, modular lighting, furniture, and sculptural objects, all characterized by precision, materiality, and conceptual clarity. Their work spans bespoke commissions for international brands and research-driven explorations into the future of glassmaking. 6:AM's approach marries ancient techniques with contemporary aesthetics, emphasizing a continuous dialogue between craftsmanship and design. This synergy means that product development and glassworking techniques evolve in parallel, where the object's shape often dictates how the glass is worked, and conversely, the design influences the choice of technique. The studio collaborates closely with Murano's master artisans, leveraging their extensive expertise in manipulating glass in its molten state. They actively experiment with layering, fusing, and adapting traditional methods to expand the material's potential while striving to minimize environmental impact. A notable project demonstrating this ethos is FLOAT, unveiled during Milan Design Week 2024. This collection repurposed salvaged glass from 1930s Milanese windows into furniture, shelving, and architectural cladding. By combining fused glass panels with minimalist steel structures, FLOAT explored new technical and aesthetic possibilities for post-industrial materials. This initiative culminated in the 'Resourceful Intelligence' installation at the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale, where reprocessed glass from Milan’s Palazzo Missori was utilized to showcase circular design strategies, developed in collaboration with Park Associati. Earlier in the year, 6:AM held its inaugural solo exhibition, 'Two-Fold Silence,' at Milan's historic Piscina Cozzi during Milan Design Week. The exhibition featured Quadrato, a lighting collection that draws inspiration from 1920s industrial design, blending Bauhaus rationalism with the geometric abstraction of Kazimir Malevič. The Quadrato collection, crafted from blown Murano glass with varying textures and opacities, included a screen-printed lattimo wall lamp encased in painted iron, offering a modern interpretation of early 20th-century emergency lights. From crafting jewel-like hand-blown Murano glass stools for Bottega Veneta’s SS26 runway show to their pioneering material recovery projects, 6:AM consistently demonstrates a distinctive visual language. This language is characterized by fluid silhouettes, luminous textures, and a steadfast commitment to handmade quality. Each cuboid stool for Bottega Veneta, for instance, began as a 43 cm glass block shaped using cast-iron molds engraved with CNC technology, reflecting a process akin to traditional marble sculpture. The studio's work is deeply embedded in Murano’s historical glassmaking heritage, yet it is decisively forward-looking, continuously pushing the boundaries of glass design. #GlassDesign #MuranoGlass #6AMStudio #MilanDesign #SustainableDesign #BottegaVeneta #ArchitecturalInstallations #ContemporaryCraftsmanship #CircularDesign

Karina Espinosa, owner of KE Design, discusses her journey into entrepreneurship, drawing inspiration from her parents' dedication to their own business. She emphasizes the importance of hard work and passion in her career as an interior designer. Espinosa highlights that her determination to pursue a career she genuinely enjoys, rather than a job she dreads, led her to establish KE Design after gaining substantial experience and knowledge in the field. KE Design offers comprehensive interior design services, specializing in residential spaces and commercial buildings. The company provides window treatments and custom furniture tailored to clients' needs. Espinosa describes her design aesthetic as a blend of modern and transitional elements with an organic touch, prioritizing meticulous attention to detail to reflect each client's unique style. KE Design aims to create timeless spaces, whether they are large-scale projects or smaller refresh initiatives, guiding clients through a collaborative process to bring their visions to fruition. Espinosa attributes her current success to unwavering hard work, personal sacrifices, clear prioritization, and a strong vision. She notes that being a business owner demands constant engagement, often requiring a 24/7 work ethic. Responsiveness to clients and vendors is crucial, as it fosters strong connections essential for business growth. She also underscores the value of learning from both positive and challenging experiences, advocating for a positive mindset to significantly influence outcomes. When asked about recommendations for a visitor to Miami, Espinosa suggests an itinerary focused on enjoying the city's outdoor and culinary offerings. She highlights the appeal of spending time by the water, whether lounging on the beach, boating in the ocean, or taking a trip to the Florida Keys for a tropical escape. For dining, she recommends exploring diverse restaurants and mentions several favorites with great ambiance, including The Deck at Island Gardens, La Mar, Regatta Grove, Mila, and Cipriani. She also suggests notable sushi spots like Uchi, Omakai, Katana, and Paperfish, and stresses the quintessential Miami experience of trying a Cuban cafecito and croqueta. Espinosa expresses gratitude for the support and encouragement she has received throughout her journey. She dedicates her success to everyone who continues to support her, her loved ones who motivate her to achieve her goals, and her late mother. She credits her mother with instilling in her the passion and drive for design, emphasizing that the values taught by her mother continue to guide her in all aspects of her life and work. #InteriorDesign #Entrepreneurship #MiamiLifestyle #BusinessJourney #DesignServices #KEDesign #CareerPassion #ClientSatisfaction