Story from KB Patio: KB Patio Furniture & Home Décor celebrates design excellence in Naples

Thais and Roberto Alcalay, a couple with a keen eye for modern design, embarked on a journey to build their dream home in Naples' Pine Ridge Estates. Having relocated from Brazil to the United States in 2004 and subsequently to Fort Myers in 2007, they found themselves desiring a modern aesthetic, which proved challenging to find in the existing Naples market. This led them to collaborate with architect John Cooney of Stofft Cooney Architects and Scott McConnelee of BUILD, a construction company renowned for luxury modern homes. Thais Alcalay, an interior designer by profession, played a pivotal role in the project. She arrived at initial consultations with extensive documentation, including detailed descriptions of each room, desired materials, and even plumbing specifications, surprising both the architect and the builder with her meticulous planning. This thorough preparation was the result of years of research and a clear vision for their new home, which they felt should reflect their current lifestyle, contrasting with the French-style home they once owned in Brazil. The resulting 5,500-square-foot, four-bedroom (plus office), five-and-a-half-bathroom residence embodies a modern aesthetic without being stark or cold. The exterior is characterized by a series of layered cubes, cantilevers, voids, windows, and solid walls, showcasing movement and varied textures. Cooney skillfully incorporated different materials such as stucco and wood to create visual interest and juxtaposition. The Alcalays' preference for movement over simple squares and angles was a driving force behind the architectural design. Inside, the home maintains an open and free-flowing atmosphere. Common areas are subtly defined by ceiling details, lighting, and box beams. A consistent neutral palette is established throughout most of the home with grayish METAL.IT tile by Emil Group, which is inspired by brushed steel and extends to the baseboards, providing a cohesive backdrop for other design elements. This flooring choice allows the predominantly Italian and Brazilian furniture, along with other thoughtful details, to stand out. A significant feature in the great room is a 14-foot-high feature wall made of six Italian tile slabs that mimic marble, designed by Thais, with an LED shaft running along its perimeter. In the kitchen, a mix of cabinet heights, surfaces, and tones is present, with painted wood cabinets wrapping around high-end appliances and glass sections offering views of the pool. A main island is practical with two sinks, while a second island serves as a showpiece with Pompeii quartz extending to the floor. The design also emphasizes a connection to the outdoors, with large sliders offering views of the pool and outdoor kitchen from the great room, and three of the four bedrooms enjoying pool views. An intimate conversation area near the great room features Désirée Ego swivel chairs and copper Tom Dixon pendants, all positioned to appreciate the surrounding landscape. The primary suite continues the clean lines, featuring a padded gray headboard and a spa-like bathroom with a floating vanity over illuminated river stones and a generously sized shower. Even Roberto's specific request for a workspace above the garage was integrated, ingeniously cantilevered to enhance the home's unique design. The detailed initial planning by the Alcalays, particularly Thais, proved to be both the greatest challenge and a significant factor in the project's success. All illustrations are courtesy of Robin Hill Photography. #HomeDesign #ModernArchitecture #NaplesRealEstate #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #PineRidgeEstates #ArchitecturalDesign #ResidentialConstruction

This article details the transformation of a four-bedroom home in Lely Resort, Naples, spearheaded by designer Julia Hall Liegeois of Julia Hall Designs, in collaboration with builder Joshua Brown of D. Brown Construction. The homeowners, who previously rented, purchased the house due to its meticulous upkeep and quality furnishings by the prior owner, despite the decor being outdated with a "Tommy Bahama look" in browns and tans. After living in the home for a few years, they decided to undertake a renovation, focusing on brightening the space while maintaining comfort and cohesion. The initial phase of the renovation involved significant changes in paint and fabrics. The entire home was painted white, a decision the homeowner initially hesitated about but ultimately embraced as transformative. This choice set a fresh, understated elegant tone, moving away from typical coastal design clichés. The common area floors were updated with shellstone-hued travertine, and the entryway was enhanced with matching vignettes featuring mirrors framed in faceted blue glass above rattan-wrapped console tables, chosen for their retro appeal and light-bouncing qualities. The existing furnishings, many of which had rattan or wicker detailing, were revitalized with a new blue-and-white upholstery scheme. This layering of energetic patterns in different scales introduced a modern aesthetic while ensuring the space felt balanced and avoided the coldness often associated with coastal modern designs. The main sofa in the sitting area, for instance, received a white fabric with an oversized strié-like pattern, contributing to the desired fresh ambiance. Cosmetic renovations extended to the kitchen and bathrooms. The bar cabinets, originally honey brown, were painted bright white and fitted with blackened-navy hardware, complemented by a Daltile Multitude in Modern Khaki backsplash. Kitchen cabinets were painted white and extended to the ceiling, enhancing the room's grandeur. A dark, bilevel peninsula counter was replaced with a single-layer brilliant quartzite counter, while wood-toned ceiling beams were retained to prevent the room from feeling overly modern. The guest bathroom was painted a deep navy and adorned with pebble-shaped iridescent tiles, adding textural art elements that tied the space together. The final touches involved incorporating statement lighting, wallpaper, textural art, and distinctive hardware. In the dining room, twin palm sculptures and a trio of coral-inspired discs were added. A chandelier with cascading crystal cylinders became a focal point over the breakfast nook. Orange accents in the family room provided a warm contrast to the blue and white palette, picking up tones from outdoor sculptural elements, ceiling beams, and a coffee table. Ombré Phillip Jeffries Mirage wallpaper panels, set within trim in the dining and living areas, emphasized the 12-foot ceilings and captured light, creating a cloud-like effect, particularly in the dining room where it formed a showstopping triptych. Many existing dining room pieces, such as a curved wood chandelier, rattan chairs, a sisal rug, and a planter (repainted from dark brown to bright white lacquer), were repurposed. These were updated with fresh textiles, including a striped ikat print on chair cushions and watercolor ombré stripes in the curtains, offering an updated coastal modern look. A mix of traditional and modern ginger jars served as a scaled centerpiece. The design approach highlighted that significant transformation can be achieved by reimagining existing pieces and incorporating thoughtful new details, creating a fresh, collected, and timeless aesthetic. #CoastalStyle #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #NaplesDesign #JuliaHallDesigns #HomeTours #DesignInspiration #ModernCoastal

Theresa and Dan Starta, inspired by their global travels, aimed to create a home that seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor living, choosing a 10-acre wooded property in Adams, Pittsburgh. After living in Dubai for a decade and Shanghai for five years, they returned to Pittsburgh in 2020 with a vision to incorporate international influences into their new residence. They enlisted Kaclik Builders to construct a timeless yet modern home, featuring unique elements such as Chinese doors and Terra Cotta sculptures that reflect their diverse experiences. The couple's international background also informed the design of their outdoor space, which they envisioned as a resort-like retreat for family and friends. This outdoor area was recognized as the 'Best Outdoor Space for 2024' by the Best of Design judges. Designed by Hook Design Group and Ricupero Inc., the space features three covered verandas that provide various settings for socializing and relaxation. The design ensures a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor living areas, with large windows and attached verandas that enhance this integration. Additionally, the property includes a spacious balcony off the primary bedroom and a tennis court. The outdoor area offers a variety of seating arrangements, accommodating both large gatherings and intimate moments. Elements like Arabic lanterns, a hanging chair, and a hanging daybed contribute to a vacation-like atmosphere. The natural wooded backdrop of mature trees, which transform with the seasons, further enhances the serene ambiance. Stephanie Schill Hayden, an architect and designer, noted the effective use of foliage to create visual 'walls,' giving the space a courtyard-like feel. A key feature of the outdoor space is its full kitchen and dining area, equipped with cabinetry and stone countertops that mirror an indoor kitchen, enabling comprehensive outdoor entertaining. The space also boasts a pool with an integrated sundeck and hot tub, designed by Lesko Contracting. Aesthetic and calming elements such as fountains, a waterfall feature integrated into a sleek firepit, and a cozy fireplace are present. Porcelain tiles and natural stone textures are used throughout, ensuring a smooth transition to the surrounding greenery. Katie Savakis, a project designer, highlighted the choice of a single paver in different sizes and light stone, which allows the natural environment and pool to stand out. The walking paths are adorned with family heirloom plants, shrubs, and potted plants, adding to the lush environment. The couple strategically oriented the pool to maximize sun exposure during Pittsburgh's warmer months, a detail carefully planned by Dan after studying sun charts. The project involved several vendors, including Kaclik Builders for home construction, Lesko Contracting for the pool, Hook Design Group for landscape design, and Ricupero Inc. for landscaping, hardscape, fire features, and tile installation. Other contributors included PF Cook Brick Company for tile and brick, Theater Xtreme for TV and sound, Don’s Appliances for appliances, National Woodwork & Danver Outdoor Kitchens for cabinetry, Primo Marble & Granite for countertops, LeDonne Plumbing & Contracting for plumbing, and Ram Electric for electrical work. The article highlights how careful planning and a global perspective can transform a property into a unique, resort-like living space. #HomeDesign #OutdoorSpace #ResortLiving #LandscapeDesign #ModernHome #GlobalInfluence #KaclikBuilders #PittsburghMagazine #BestOfDesign

In northern Italy's Piedmont region, a distinctive modernist pavilion stands as a contemporary interpretation of a castle, enveloped by its own body of water and accessible via a drawbridge. This architectural marvel, designed by Duilio Damilano of Damilano Studio, sought to create a secluded oasis, blending Italian luxury with the serene aesthetics of a Japanese Zen garden. The client and architect shared a mutual admiration for Japanese design principles, which significantly influenced the project's interior and exterior elements. The exterior of the pavilion features a large garden, conceptualized by landscape gardener Paolo Roagna. This garden draws inspiration from symmetrical Japanese botany, incorporating sculptural Bonsai trees and water features harmoniously alongside indigenous trees and shrubs. The building's perimeter is defined by sculptural metal grid structures on opposing sides. These grids are not merely aesthetic; they provide essential shade during the summer months and are adorned with geometrically positioned square blocks of Fir wood, adding visual depth. The external walls are also crafted from Fir wood, treated with the traditional Japanese Shou Sugi Ban technique, which involves burning the wood to enhance its durability. The single-floor dwelling utilizes pigmented micro cement throughout. Externally, this material is acid-etched to mimic the appearance of natural stone, while the interior surfaces are left smooth. The internal layout is designed to foster continuous interaction with the surrounding natural environment, largely achieved through expansive sliding glass walls. The interiors showcase a thoughtful curation of design pieces, where luxury meets functionality and artistic expression. In the sitting room, a playful ‘Cactus’ coatrack by Guido Drocco and Franco Mello immediately captures attention, positioned near a painting titled ‘Sardinia’ by Andrea Lo Papa. The room also features an enveloping ‘Pack’ sofa by Edra, illuminated by Ingo Maurer’s ‘Lacrime del Pescatore’ lighting. A hand-crafted rug by Mohebban Milano and a collection of wooden sculptures by Austrian artist Daniel Eggli further enrich the space. The dining room offers a contrasting palette to the building's earthy brown tones. It features a gold leaf table, designed by Dilmos Milano, complemented by ‘Ella’ chairs by Jacopo Foggini for Edra, which are described as having soft, gleaming molten amber hues. The ‘Scrigno’ sideboard, with its mosaic mirror shards, adds a deeper luster, reflecting the jewel-toned scheme. Damilano describes these colors as representing the 'earth and territory, warm and material colors.' The kitchen and bathrooms maintain a practical yet refined aesthetic. The kitchen, hand-built in oak by a local carpenter, is designed for industrial efficiency, a material choice echoed in the bathroom. The bathroom is equipped with ‘Origini’ taps by Gessi, ‘I Ching’ towel warmers by Elisa Ossino for Tubes, and sanitary ware by Cielo Ceramiche. In the main bedroom, a burnished dragon motif, painted by artist Riccardo Brotini, adorns the entire back wall, drawing inspiration from Japanese mythology where dragons symbolize cosmic guardianship and control over natural elements. A foldaway bed is integrated into the ceiling, allowing for flexible use of the space, which also connects to the terrace, pool, and gardens through sliding glass doors. The design team's overarching goal was to create a dynamic yet meditative natural experience, with the metal mesh and interlocking wooden blocks forming an optical illusion that changes as one moves around the pavilion. This integration of Italian luxury with Japanese Zen principles culminates in a home that emphasizes well-being and a harmonious connection with its environment. #ModernistPavilion #ItalianLuxury #JapaneseZenGarden #ArchitectureDesign #PiedmontHome #DuilioDamilano #InteriorDesign #ShouSugiBan #LandscapeDesign

This article highlights how designer Suzanne Costa transformed four units in the Parkview at Cambier development, all sharing the same 3,900-plus-square-foot floor plan, into distinct living spaces tailored to each homeowner's unique taste. Costa's initial work involved selecting hand-poured Kinon Surface Design panels for cabinetry and Cambria quartz surfaces, among other high-end finishes. The subsequent challenge arose from the diverse preferences of the well-traveled and culturally astute clients, each desiring a personalized interior. The design process involved an artistic collaboration, with Costa working to integrate existing art collections and homeowner aesthetics into the uniform layouts. For units 201 and 202, she cataloged homeowners' art to inspire design motifs. For unit 301, Costa incorporated the client's appreciation for nature and local art, helping him build a collection of vibrant, biophilic works from Naples artists. Across all units, art served as a central theme, influencing material choices, color palettes, and the overall mood. The prevalence of white walls and a strong emphasis on lighting were consistent features, creating gallery-like settings. Custom kitchen cabinetry, designed by Marcus Jelley and inspired by Japanese pottery, provided a unifying element across the units, yet Costa's approach allowed for significant personalization. Unit 301, dubbed "Where Nature and Art Collide," features a top-floor design rooted in local Naples art, with pieces by Juan Carlos Collada, Tom Manziano, and Diane Whiting. Collada’s *Let the Sun Shine* greets guests in the foyer, while his sculptural totem blurs the lines between natural and man-made elements. The condo heavily utilizes wood, with dark tones like high-gloss rosewood adding a "rich, smoky opulence," contrasting with typical coastal light hues. A custom wine and bourbon bar with Cristallo quartzite, salmon Kravet chairs, and a Vanguard bed with Kelly Wearstler fabric contribute to a luxurious yet natural ambiance. The lanai patio extends this natural theme with a live-edge dining table and cedar ceiling details, reflecting Southwest Florida's sandy palette. Unit 202, titled "The Old World Goes Contemporary," presented the challenge of merging diverse elements from world-traveling owners, including Balinese carvings, Parisian oil paintings, and heirloom furniture, into a cohesive contemporary design. The great room blends a hand-woven Pakistani rug with a Kravet acrylic coffee table and a curved sofa. A stone fireplace displays Asian objets d’art and Murano glass sculptures. Costa meticulously staged the client’s global art collection, using elements like an intricately carved piece on tigerwood shelving and a sustainable fiber wallpaper. The Luxe Light & Home PIRELLI Chandelier 30 in the foyer exemplifies the focus on lighting to highlight artwork. The office combines Parisian oil paintings with an antique desk. The primary bedroom evokes Art Deco glamour with crystal pendant lighting, Spanish hand-embroidered Gianti drapery, and a Kravet Versailles velvet bed in turquoise blue, complementing gold-framed paintings, notably *Romeo and Juliet* from Azerbaijan. Finally, unit 201, a "Black-and-White and Bespoke All Over" design, caters to a Canadian homeowner's modern art and masculine aesthetic. This unit features extensive black wall coverings and large backdrops for a spectacular art collection, contrasted with white furnishings and finishes. The foyer immediately establishes this contrast with an ivory-white grand piano set against white-on-black abstract figurative works. The dining area includes black Phillip Jeffries wall coverings with a technicolor abstract expressionist painting by Arthur Potts. White cerused oak kitchen cabinets by Marcus Jelley and white fabric Barbara Barry chairs maintain the minimalist color scheme, while the painting adds dynamic flair. The bedroom introduces novel neutrals and rich mauve velvet drapery by Kravet. Costa collaborated with Toronto-based furniture designer David Powell to create custom swivel chairs for the bedroom, aligning with the client's lifestyle. Throughout the two-year project, Costa's bespoke detailing and deep understanding of her clients resulted in distinctly personalized spaces. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #SuzanneCosta #LuxuryCondos #ArtIntegration #CustomInteriors #NaplesFlorida #ModernArt #GlobalInspiredDesign

Milan Design Week, also known as Salone del Mobile, traditionally serves as a pivotal event for design enthusiasts and a leading international exhibition for furniture and interior design. In recent years, the event has expanded its scope, attracting significant participation from the fashion industry. Brands such as Gucci and Loro Piana are increasingly featured alongside established home brands, presenting events and new product launches that blur the lines between fashion and home design. Among the highlights of Milan Design Week 2025 is Miu Miu's Literary Club, which dedicates two days to exploring the works of French philosopher and writer Simone de Beauvoir. Concurrently, Prada Frames will host a symposium centered on the multifaceted concept of transportation. Louis Vuitton is set to introduce a new home collection, further solidifying the convergence of high fashion and interior aesthetics. La DoubleJ will host tarot card readings at its new headquarters, adding a unique experiential element to the design week offerings. Loewe, marking its ninth appearance at Salone, has collaborated with 25 artists, designers, and architects to create a collection of teapots. These pieces, crafted by figures such as Edmund de Waal, Walter Prince, and David Chipperfield, explore the cultural significance and conventions surrounding tea, ranging from highly literal to abstract interpretations. Loewe is also offering a Salone homewares collection, which includes coasters and leather charms. Prada Frames, the annual symposium organized by Prada, focuses this year on “In Transit,” investigating the infrastructures that facilitate the movement of both people and ideas. Discussions are held in unique historical settings, including the recently restored 1950s train, Arlecchino, designed by Gio Ponti and Giulio Minoletti, and the ornate Padiglione Reale, a former royal waiting area at Milan’s Central Station. Louis Vuitton is launching its inaugural home collection, showcased at Milan’s Palazzo Serbelloni. This new line encompasses furniture, lighting, tableware, textiles, and games, with a pinball machine reportedly inspired by Pharrell. The collection complements the brand’s existing Objets Nomades, a series of limited-edition pieces created by notable designers like India Mahdavi and the Campana brothers, which will also be on display. La DoubleJ is celebrating its 10-year anniversary by unveiling its new five-story headquarters, dubbed the “LDJ Starquarters,” in Milan’s Navigli district. This new space is designed to foster positive energy and will host a week of events, including tarot card readings and sound healing sessions in the newly opened Gong Temple on its rooftop. The brand is also releasing new versions of its Napoli Rosa homeware collection. Miu Miu's Literary Club returns for its second chapter, “A Woman’s Education,” building on last year's “Writing Life.” This year’s program explores themes of girlhood and love through the works of Simone de Beauvoir and Japanese author Fumiko Enchi, featuring performances and talks by authors such as Lauren Elkin, Geetanjali Shree, and Naoise Dolan. Gucci presents “Bamboo Encounters,” an exhibition at the 16th-century Milan monastery Chiostri di San Simpliciano. Curated by architect Ippolito Pestellini Laparelli, the exhibit highlights bamboo’s historical significance to the house through multidisciplinary works, including sculptures, bamboo baskets, and kites. Kartell is commemorating 25 years of its lighting line with an exhibition at its Milan flagship store, featuring iconic lamps and lighting pieces. The Kartell Museum, also celebrating its 25th anniversary, will host a retrospective on Italian industrial designer Joe Colombo. New products and re-editions, including a reissue of Colombo’s 1964 KD28 lamp, will also be released. Finally, Loro Piana has partnered with Dimoremilano to create “La Prima Notte di Quiete,” an installation transforming the courtyard of Loro Piana’s headquarters into a 1970s-style home. The space features furniture by Dimorestudio for Loro Piana Interiors, Dimorestudio pieces with Loro Piana fabrics, items from Loro Piana’s The Art of Good Living collection, and artworks from Milanese galleries. #MilanDesignWeek #FashionHomeCrossover #LuxuryInteriors #ArtAndDesign #PradaFrames #LouisVuittonHome #LaDoubleJ #MiuMiuLiteraryClub #GucciBamboo #KartellLighting #LoroPianaDimoremilano

Kave Home has launched a new campaign titled, "Here to Stay," emphasizing the emotional and historical significance of homes beyond their physical structures. The campaign highlights the memories and stories embedded within living spaces and the enduring quality of the furniture that inhabits them. Originating from Girona over 40 years ago, Kave Home operates across five continents with more than 140 stores, producing furniture and decor designed for purpose and longevity. This campaign is a significant milestone in a rebranding effort that commenced earlier in the year, which introduced a refreshed visual identity reflecting Kave Home’s modern, Mediterranean essence. "Here to Stay" aims to convey this vision through emotional connection, advocating for a slower pace in a fast-moving world, encouraging individuals to appreciate the deeper meaning of their homes as repositories of personal narratives, memories, and emotions that persist over time. Kave Home's foundational philosophy centers on durability and timelessness. The brand prioritizes technical excellence and uses robust materials to ensure that each product is not only structurally sound but also holds sentimental value for years. Its design aesthetic integrates contemporary styles with classic appeal, encouraging consumers to value furniture that becomes an integral part of their daily lives and personal histories. The visual component of the "Here to Stay" campaign was filmed in l’Ametlla del Vallès, Barcelona, presenting a poetic narrative. The campaign portrays a woman reading in her living room, which gradually transforms as its walls disappear, revealing a vast wheat field. Objects around her begin to float, with some vanishing and others remaining, symbolizing the elements that become intrinsically linked to one's sense of home. This campaign, developed in collaboration with the &Ros;às agency, is characterized by its Mediterranean lighting and profound emotional depth. It encourages viewers to reflect on their personal relationships with their living environments and the objects that contribute to their identity. Kave Home's legacy dates back to 1984, drawing continuous inspiration from its origins in Girona and the Mediterranean region. The company’s ethical framework is built on craftsmanship, family principles, and a commitment to responsible production, encompassing conscious material selection and sustainable partnerships. Through "Here to Stay," Kave Home reiterates its mission to create spaces that foster inspiration, connection, and endurance, asserting that the essence of a home is defined by what endures within it. #KaveHome #HomeDecor #FurnitureDesign #MediterraneanStyle #HomeStories #InteriorDesign #BrandCampaign #LongevityInDesign

Milan Design Week transforms the city into a global design hub, attracting attendees to both Salone del Mobile and Fuorisalone. This year's event showcases a diverse range of installations, highlighting innovative approaches to design, lighting, and materiality. Atelier Biagetti, a recurring favorite at Fuorisalone, presents "The King," an exploration of obsessions inspired by Elvis Presley. Their installation reimagines a fantastical living room featuring "The King Sofa," a modular piece accompanied by guitar cases cleverly reinterpreted as tables with intricate Ravenna mosaics. This piece exemplifies their propensity for the impossible and their unique artistic vision. Ross Gardam, an Australian lighting designer, offers "Transcendence," an exhibit focused on the allure of illuminated glass. Gardam, known for creating meditative moods with his fixtures, demonstrates his broad talents and deep fascination with glass's ability to transcend physical boundaries. The installation promises a dynamic curation of luminaires, showcasing the material's unparalleled qualities. Giopato & Coombes, Treviso-based lighting masters, unveil "18 Pockets" after six years of dedicated research. This exhibit provides a glimpse into their creative process, highlighting the magical qualities of the immaterial. Their previous fixtures are transformed into 18 unique luminaires through a complex system of weight and balance, creating charming and poetic combinations. Galerie Philia's "Desacralized" exhibition takes place in a deconsecrated 11th-century Milanese church, fittingly exploring the theme of desacralization. Over 20 artists from the gallery's roster contribute to this unique setting. Notable pieces include Studiopepe's octagonal marble side table, inspired by Italian baptisteries, Kar Studio’s chair, drawing inspiration from ancient Chinese Shang Dynasty script, and a monumental chandelier by Morghen Studio, designed to offer a transformative experience of light within the historic space. SolidNature returns with "Beyond the Surface," an OMA-designed installation that metaphorically connects quarrying stone with the act of dreaming across seven distinct rooms. A highlight is Sabine Marcelis’s lustrous table, an ombré glass coffee table anchored by impressive stone blocks, demonstrating her experimental approach to materials. Objects of Common Interest, composed of Eleni Petaloti and Leonidas Trampoukis, presents "Poikilos." Inspired by ancient Greek references to iridescence and insights from Romanian artisan Ovidiu Colea, their ethereal objects and tables with opalescent finishes and sinuous curves inject energy into the Nilufar Depot. Loewe Chairs, under Jonathan Anderson's direction, reinterprets chairs into distinctive totems through an emphasis on texture, personality, color, and weaving. The display integrates materials close to Loewe’s brand identity, such as leather and raffia, with unexpected techniques like incorporating thermal blankets, elevating the humble stick chair into a canvas for elaborate woven decoration. Suchi Reddy, founder of Reddymade Architecture and Design, collaborates with Lexus on "Shaped by Air," an installation focused on carbon neutrality. Visitors navigate a forest of Matisse-like forms to discover a life-sized interpretation of the Lexus Electrified Sport, designed to evoke the sensation of being shaped by air. Lastly, "Bar Flora" is a collaboration between Sophie Lou Jacobsen, Nick Ozemba, and Felicia Hung of In Common With. Building on their Flora Collection, which employs Venetian glassmaking techniques to mimic natural forms, this installation transforms Palinurobar into a floral oasis. It introduces two new additions, including a sandblasted amber colorway, further enhancing their partnership. Byredo, known for its unconventional approach to fragrance, showcases "Bal D’Afrique by Dozie Kanu." Founder Ben Gorham teamed with Portugal-based artist Dozie Kanu to capture the essence of the beloved fragrance through a showcase that merges Kanu's unique objects with photographic negatives from Adjoa Armah’s _saman archive_, creating a multi-sensory experience that extends beyond traditional perfumery. #MilanDesignWeek #DesignInstallations #Fuorisalone #LightingDesign #FurnitureDesign #MaterialInnovation #CollectibleDesign #ArtAndDesign

Kartell's exhibition at Salone del Mobile presented a unique behind-the-scenes look into their design and manufacturing process, showcasing the evolution of iconic products from initial sketches to finished pieces. This innovative approach offered a rare glimpse into the creative journey, breaking away from the typical secrecy surrounding major brands. The display highlighted the various stages of product development, featuring works from renowned designers such as Philippe Starck, Piero Lissoni, Ferruccio Laviani, Patricia Urquiola, Tokujin Yoshioka, Mario Bellini, Eugeni Quitllet, and Rodolfo Dordoni. Among the showcased items, Patricia Urquiola's "Foliage" chair and sofa were particularly emphasized. These pieces, inspired by natural forms, were designed to appear as though they organically grew from plastic, with their "leaves" resting upon a framework of "branches." The exhibition visually deconstructed this seemingly simple aesthetic, revealing the intricate and complex design process required to achieve such a fluid and natural look. The display included numerous prototypes of the Foliage range, complete with various markings and comments, illustrating the iterative adjustments and refinements made until the designs met their precise specifications. The Foliage seating features polyurethane foam padding with quilted fabric upholstery, and its legs are constructed from tubular painted iron. The design's meticulous detailing, such as the top-stitched embroidery covering the entire surface, including the back, ensures visual appeal from all angles. This thoughtful consideration for every detail underscores the effort invested in the product's aesthetic and structural integrity. The range includes both the original chair and a new, smaller armchair, providing versatility in its application. Both models are available in a diverse palette of upholstery colors—yellow, green, turquoise, red, grey, black, or brown—and can be paired with legs in white, black, red, or acid green. By transparently exhibiting the extensive work involved in the design and manufacturing of its products, Kartell effectively communicated the true value embedded in each piece. This strategy not only educated visitors on the intricacies of the design process but also fostered a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and innovation behind the finished products. The exhibition served as a testament to the effort and creativity required to bring high-quality, aesthetically pleasing, and functional furniture to life, reinforcing Kartell’s commitment to design excellence. #Kartell #MilanDesignWeek #SaloneDelMobile #PatriciaUrquiola #FoliageCollection #FurnitureDesign #ProductDevelopment #InteriorDesign #DesignProcess

Terrasza, a new 'phigital' platform dedicated to outdoor living design, launched its inaugural event in Barcelona as part of Barcelona Design Week (BDW) from October 16th to 27th, 2023. This event aligns with BDW's theme, 'Design for Human Future,' and the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically promoting SDG number 18, which broadly covers sustainability, well-being, responsible strategies, social impact, techno-humanism, and diversity. Guendalina Perelli, the founder of Terrasza, initiated the platform to address the evolving relationship between individuals and nature, particularly amplified by the pandemic and climate change. She observed a growing recognition of the importance of outdoor living spaces, leading many indoor furniture companies to venture into outdoor collections. However, a dedicated event or comprehensive online platform for exterior design, encompassing all product categories for outdoor spaces, was lacking in the market. Terrasza aims to fill this void by providing a dynamic space for dialogue and contemplation, connecting companies, professionals (architects, designers, researchers, experts), and artists. It seeks to integrate the best in design and production for outdoor living into a single 'online and offline container,' including itinerant events. The choice of Barcelona for the launch was strategic, as the city is renowned for its contemporary architecture and open-space designs that foster community engagement. Perelli noted Barcelona's paradigm shift where design and architecture directly influence social behavior and are tangible values for residents and tourists alike. The city's meticulous attention to aesthetic and functional quality in urban furnishings, lighting, sidewalks, and green spaces made it an ideal location. What distinguishes Terrasza from existing events is its exclusive focus on outdoor living and its transdisciplinary approach. The platform's primary goal is to foster synergies, dialogue, and reflection on ecological, lifestyle, and creative challenges. This innovative perspective aims to establish outdoor design as a distinct category in thought and market, highlighting all entities involved in the global outdoor living sector. Terrasza is designed to be both a 'business to buyers' event and a platform for professionals to share their expertise, experiences, achievements, and future concerns. This dual approach acknowledges the broad appeal of design, extending beyond professionals to the general public, as observed during events like Milan Design Week. The outdoor furniture market is experiencing significant growth, with a global valuation of $45.08 billion in 2020, projected to reach $66.55 billion by 2028. Key trends in this market include a steady recovery after the 2020 downturn, with strong growth in regions like the United States, Canada, China, France, and Germany. Consumers increasingly prefer environmentally friendly materials, with wood accounting for approximately 55% of material usage and natural fabrics showing a projected annual growth rate of 4-5% until 2027. Resins and metals, making up 15% and 10% of the market respectively, are chosen for their durability, lightweight properties, low maintenance, recyclability, and aesthetic appeal. The residential market holds the largest sales share at 60%, while the hospitality sector is also growing. Dining sets are expected to be the top-selling category, projected to cover 48% of the U.S. outdoor market by 2027. Research identifies increased affordability, rising demand for outdoor-oriented travel, new outdoor-conscious urban real estate developments, a renewed desire for outdoor living and shared natural spaces, and the availability of multichannel shopping options as key growth drivers. #OutdoorLiving #ExteriorDesign #PhigitalPlatform #BarcelonaDesignWeek #SustainableDesign #FurnitureDesign #BiophilicDesign #DesignEvents #LifestyleDesign

Kim Scodro Design's dining room at the 2024 Kips Bay Decorator Show House Dallas is a multi-purpose space designed for modern entertaining, drawing inspiration from a 1948 Vogue photograph by Cecil Beaton. The vision behind the room was to create a space where contemporary women could enjoy cocktails and dinner without leaving the house, reflecting a shift in how dining rooms are utilized today. The design journey began with a photograph of women in glamorous gowns, which informed the room's elegant and colorful aesthetic. The color palette for the dining room was directly inspired by the gowns in Beaton's photograph. Scodro collaborated with The Shade Store to produce horizontal stripe curtain panels using beautiful silk fabrics that serendipitously matched her vision. Gracie contributed an ethereal botanical wallcovering, complemented by a matching Benjamin Moore paint color on the ceiling, enhancing the room's sophisticated atmosphere. The dining table, from Hickory Chair, is adorned with candy-colored Ginori 1735 china, adding a touch of playful luxury. Antiques played a significant role in furnishing the space, with pieces sourced locally from Wolf-Hall and Legacy, including striking pastel glass chandeliers. These elements contribute to the room's timeless elegance and character. Custom design details, such as a box-pleat armless chair and bespoke silk pinstriped built-in banquettes, were incorporated to maximize comfort and visual appeal. Scodro expressed that the room embodies her personal style, characterized by a sense of beauty and comfort in every detail. The design successfully merges traditional dining functionality with a dedicated bar area, offering a seamless transition from pre-dinner cocktails to a full meal. This approach acknowledges the evolving role of the dining room as a versatile hub for social gatherings and relaxation. The overall design is a cohesive blend of historical inspiration and contemporary needs, creating a luxurious and inviting environment that is both visually stunning and highly functional for entertaining guests. #KimScodroDesign #KipsBayDecoratorShowHouse #DallasDesign #DiningRoomDesign #VogueInspired #InteriorDesign #LuxuryDecor #HomeDecor #EntertainingSpace

Archeda, a family-owned business established in 1996 in Porcia, Friuli Venezia Giulia, specializes in creating bathroom furniture, accessories, and complements. The company's core philosophy revolves around culture and sharing, viewing them as essential tools to inspire and appreciate beauty. Archeda focuses on designing bathroom systems that are adaptable and multifunctional, transforming bathrooms into personalized spaces for self-care and well-being. Each collection is a blend of research and innovation, aiming to anticipate current and future design trends and lifestyle shifts. Founders Maurizio Poletto and Piergiorgio Verardo initiated the company with the vision of infusing beauty and innovation into bathroom design through a diverse range of furnishing solutions. The company’s expertise is rooted in a rich tradition of craftsmanship combined with a passion for design, embodying the resilience and foresight typical of "made in Italy" enterprises. The second generation, led by Alberto Poletto, Maurizio's son, has joined the business, bringing a clear and determined vision for future growth. Alberto Poletto's aspiration is to contribute to the family business by developing design furniture, and he aims to implement digitization processes for faster and more innovative services. He also plans to expand into new foreign markets to promote Archeda's core values globally. The manufacturing facility in Porcia spans 4,000 square meters, where a significant portion of the workforce has been dedicated to the company for two decades. These skilled professionals are responsible for processing raw materials, assembling, and crafting high-quality, durable design pieces. Archeda enhances its customer-centric approach by offering a digital configurator, which allows clients to design their bathrooms virtually. The company is deeply committed to sustainability, integrating eco-friendly materials such as wood and glass into its products and adopting environmentally conscious production methods. Longevity of products is a key priority, further supporting their sustainable practices. To minimize its environmental impact, Archeda powers its operations using photovoltaic panels installed on the company's rooftops. The brand's products are distributed throughout Italy via specialized thermo-hydro-sanitary and furniture shops. On the international front, Europe, particularly France, is a significant market accessed through traditional distribution channels. In the United States, Archeda strategically targets the Boutique Contract sector, collaborating with architects and design professionals in major cities like Miami, New York, and Chicago. This approach highlights their blend of traditional craftsmanship with modern business strategies and environmental responsibility.

Brazil, a country rich in diverse tree species and natural stone, offers abundant materials for product designers. The Milan Furniture Fair 2023 showcased Brazilian design with a strong emphasis on sustainability, presenting creations that balance aesthetic appeal with the preservation of natural resources and deforestation prevention. This focus was evident at Salone del Mobile, its young designer platform SaloneSatellite, and particularly at “ApexBrasil: Temporal (Storm),” an exhibition curated by entrepreneur Bruno Simões for The Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency, ApexBrasil. The exhibition, held in the Portico Richini at the University of Milan, featured 50 contemporary products from Brazilian designers. Among the highlights was the Ancestral armchair by Pedro Franco for A Lot of Brasil, a limited-edition piece made entirely of mirror-polished, laser-cut stainless steel. Part of the Ancestralidade collection, it explores themes of beauty and the 'instagrammable' phenomenon. Érico Gondim's Sucuri armchair incorporated a flexible, snake-like braiding of hardy carnaúba straw with Louro Canela wood and brass, referencing the native anaconda of Brazil. F. Studio Design's Mono nesting tables, inspired by the rigid posture and social behavior of gorillas, are crafted from powder-coated aluminum and can be stacked into interconnected shelves. Estúdio Fabiano Salbego presented Pampa, a coffee table from the Biomas collection featuring exotic Brazilian quartzite with unique natural striations, topping a carbonized wood base. Tavinho Camerino's Arreio armchair, showcased at SaloneSatellite, utilized materials from open-air markets in northeastern Brazil, with a seat made of leather cowbell harnesses. Leandro Garcia's Aro Table collection expanded on a wall-mounted version, offering Tauart wood mirrors with fixed, rotating, or handheld support options. Platform4 designed the plush Cuckoo armchair for Enele, characterized by continuous curves and made from FSC-certified pine, plywood, and upholstery, featuring a revolving base for flexibility. Roberta Rampazzo's Fan side table for Pemagran highlighted the beauty of Brazilian stone, combining slabs of São Miguel black granite and Mont Blanc marble, serving as both a table and a base. Bia Rezende's "Fish Dies by the Mouth" offered a playful porcelain interpretation of a Portuguese saying, designed as a sugar bowl and teapot. Suka Braga's Forma Vases, part of her A Silent Object Series, combined Quartzite crystal slabs with resin, showcasing natural white and orange striations that tell earth's geological history. Índio da Costa Design created Tessa, a pendant light for Munclair Lighting Brasil, featuring rippled painted aluminum on one side to mimic water, and curved screen-printed opaque glass on the other to eliminate LED glare. Finally, Rodrigo Laureano's Glow Up lounge chair for Studio Ronega featured a distinctive widened base, a durable foam seat, and cotton fabric upholstery. These designs collectively underscored Brazil's rich material heritage and the designers' commitment to innovative, sustainable, and culturally inspired creations. #BrazilianDesign #MilanFurnitureFair2023 #SustainableDesign #ProductDesign #FurnitureDesign #InteriorDesign #SaloneDelMobile #ContemporaryDesign #HomeDecor

The article presents a curated selection of ten notable furniture and lighting designs created by prominent architects and studios, which were showcased at Milan Design Week. These designs span a range of products from chairs and tables to various lighting fixtures, highlighting the intersection of architecture and product design. Among the featured pieces is "La Magie du Bois" by Swiss studio Herzog & de Meuron, a furniture collection developed in collaboration with Marta Sala Editions Milano. This collection emphasizes wooden craftsmanship and includes four series, notably the Meninas armchairs, crafted from Canaletto walnut and fabric, specifically designed for the renovation of Hotel Les Trois Rois in Basel. The collection was exhibited at Salone del Mobile. Danish architecture studio BIG showcased their "Arctic" lamp collection at the Euroluce 2025 exhibition. This lighting series is characterized by geometric components that create a play of light and reflection, inspired by the geometry of ice crystals. The lamps feature a sculptural Archimedean form with mirrored surfaces and a central core that diffuses light, while the mirrored surfaces reflect the surroundings when the light is off. Phantom Hands, a furniture brand, collaborated with the Geoffrey Bawa Trust to reintroduce Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa’s furniture collection. This collection, encompassing chairs, tables, and lighting, recreates pieces originally developed between the mid-1960s and mid-1990s, including wood and metal furniture like the curvaceous Kandalama chairs. Gae Aulenti’s "Alcinoo" table lamp was reinterpreted by lighting brand Artemide, 50 years after its initial design. The lamp features a rounded form of blown glass encased within a cylindrical metal cage, balancing transparency and structural strength. A sphere emerges from the top, and three internal light sources filter through its transparent exterior. Japanese architect Kengo Kuma collaborated with Spanish outdoor design brand Gandia Blasco to create the limited-edition HOS collection, which includes a deckchair and stool. These pieces, displayed at Salone del Mobile, feature wooden joints, reflecting Japanese architectural traditions, and are made with tactile fabrics from recycled PET fibers. Lebanese architect Aline Asmar d'Amman presented "The Power of Tenderness," a furniture series comprising bookshelves, tables, and chairs made from marble, concrete, and stone. The Béton Littéraire series includes a bookshelf made from books and rough concrete, while other pieces like the Stone Cloud table series and Georgia lounge seating range feature plush finishes and swivel bases. Brazilian architect Marcio Kogan of Studio MK27, in collaboration with Minotti, launched the "Bézier" and "Bézier Cord Outdoor" collections. These collections, known for their organic forms, feature modular seating systems with plush finishes and coffee and dining tables with textured surfaces. Engineering firm Arup introduced "Internode," a lamp crafted from bamboo and aluminum components. Showcased at Artemide's Euroluce exhibition, this task light uses spring-free joints, relying on friction and equilibrium for its function. Norwegian studio Snøhetta, in partnership with Italian lighting manufacturer Viabizzuno, launched the "Aura" lighting collection. This collection focuses on optimizing light quality through transparent "light prisms" rather than the fixture itself. Swiss architect Mario Botta collaborated with Italian design company Alias to create the "Saturno" table collection and "Zeta" stool. The Zeta stool, built from colored MDF, is inspired by the letter Z, while the Saturno series features tables with solid central bases, reflecting Botta’s architectural style. These designs represent a blend of architectural principles and furniture aesthetics, offering functional and artistic pieces for contemporary spaces. #MilanDesignWeek #FurnitureDesign #LightingDesign #ArchitecturalFurniture #ProductDesign #ContemporaryDesign #InteriorDesign #SaloneDelMobile

The Homes & Gardens Design Awards recognize exceptional product designs that introduce character and sophistication to interior schemes. These annual awards highlight items, from prominent statement pieces to subtle accents, that are both contemporary and enduring in their appeal. This year's awards encompass a wide array of categories, celebrating innovation, craftsmanship, and sustainability across various home furnishings and decor. In the rug categories, 'Lithic' by A RUM FELLOW was honored as the Best Rug Collection. Inspired by British landforms, this collection features designs that mimic weathered stone, evoking the wild landscape through ethically handcrafted rugs made from Tibetan wool, New Zealand wool, cactus fiber, and silk. These rugs are STEP and GoodWeave-certified, emphasizing their ethical production. The Best Rug Design award went to 'Acres' by Pelican House x Lucy Williams Home, a flatweave, handwoven from 100% New Zealand wool, reflecting the English countryside's pastoral beauty. For outdoor and sustainable rugs, 'Aster' by Weaver Green was recognized for transforming 100% recycled plastic bottles into wool-like fibers, creating ultra-durable yet authentic-looking kilims. The Best Runner Design was awarded to 'Skye' by Bombay Sprout x Laura Stephens, crafted by fourth-generation weavers in India from hand-harvested jute, a biodegradable and recyclable material. For flooring, 'Chicopee' by Unnatural Flooring won for its herringbone weave, combining sisal's rustic charm with synthetic yarn's practicality, making it water-resistant, UV-stable, and suitable for indoor or outdoor use. Furniture awards included 'Bill's carver' by Studio HÁM for Best Chair, inspired by early English antiques and made from oak with a woven seagrass seat. 'Lomada' by Isabel & Co received Best Desk for its custom-made design from solid oak, upholstered in various fabrics. The Best Sofa award was given to 'Dajo' by Porta Romana, noted for its retro aesthetics, modern craftsmanship, deep seat, elegant curves, and polished beech plinth. 'The Nautilus' by Astrid Houssin Interiors won Best Stool, offering decorative versatility with bespoke RAL colors and hand-painted finishes. 'The Bedroom collection' by Sims Hilditch x George Smith secured Best Furniture Collaboration, drawing inspiration from the Cotswolds' rolling hills. NiX by Nicola Harding's 'Shipshape chest of drawers in Sage Green' was recognized for Best Storage, featuring FSC-certified solid oak, a bold painted finish, and distinctive vertical handles. 'The Artesian' by Collection Seven won Best Bed for its customisable design, featuring poplar burl veneer posts and a luxurious upholstered base and headboard. 'Tides' by Brogan Cox x NAT MAKS was celebrated for Best Use of Colour for a Product, with marbled ink designs inspired by coastal life. Lighting categories saw several winners: 'Campanilla pendant light' by Birdie Fortescue for Best Affordable Design, offering handcrafted quality and timeless elegance. 'Insulator AB pendant' by Novocastrian won Best Fixed Ceiling Light, inspired by train journeys and made from machined brass and pressed glass. 'Thelma lantern' by Jamb received Best Pendant Light, blending historical craftsmanship with contemporary elegance. 'Bloomsbury' by Max Rollitt was named Best Table Light, honoring the Bloomsbury Group's artistic legacy with hand-turned and painted designs. 'Copper Coast rechargeable accent light' by Visual Comfort & Co x Waterford earned Best Portable Light, combining crystal craftsmanship with lighting expertise. 'Simone' by Hector Finch won Best Wall Light, drawing design cues from the Vienna Secession movement. Other notable winners include 'Bedding in Eva Belle by Liberty' by Coco & Wolf for Best Bed Linen, featuring a traditional ditsy floral print. 'Galia' by Porta Romana was awarded Best Mirror for its organic ceramic shape and customisable glazes. 'Anemone candle' by Grove England received Best Home Fragrance, combining chamomile, jasmine, and neroli with warming notes. Natasha Hulse's 'Bespoke design' won Best Headboard for its intricate, hand-painted, and embroidered artistic creations. 'The Palaces Collection' by The Soho Lighting Company x Historic Royal Palaces was recognized for Best Accessories Collaboration, drawing on historical patterns and crafted from solid brass. Rowen & Wren won Best Product Made in the UK for its commitment to British craftsmanship and sustainability. For outdoor accessories, 'Lampshade parasol in Double Cream' by Plia Parasols won for its fade-proof fabric and bullion fringe. 'Chatterley' by Francis Sultana for David Gill Gallery received Best Outdoor Collection for its sculptural, patinated bronze pieces inspired by the British landscape. Finally, 'Diamond Majesty mattress topper' by Vispring won Best Sustainable Design for its use of nature's finest materials and commitment to environmental responsibility. #HomesAndGardens #DesignAwards #InteriorDesign #ProductDesign #HomeDecor #SustainableDesign #Craftsmanship #LuxuryFurnishings #LightingDesign

Milan Design Week 2025 showcased a significant presence of Japanese design and craftsmanship across various creative disciplines, ranging from furniture and lighting to unique homes and traditional tea caddies. This year's event highlighted an array of projects that blended traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary design principles, demonstrating a commitment to functionality, material integrity, and serene living. Among the standout exhibits was Nao Tamura’s ‘Vosco’ portable light for Ambientec. Tamura, inspired by timeless tools, crafted a light with a clean-lined solidity, featuring a cast iron top and a base made from Japanese walnut, maple, or oak. The design emphasizes utility and durability, incorporating a new Fresnel lens for uniform light diffusion across five levels, catering to diverse needs from a gentle glow to brighter illumination. Tamura's approach reflects a broader philosophical shift towards designing objects that are truly useful and enduring in a world already saturated with products. Atsushi Shindo presented ‘Some Echoes,’ a lighting installation at Salone Satellite inspired by a deep forest. Crafted from hundreds of hand-split Japanese sawara cypress wood pieces, the installation diffused a warm LED light, mimicking the scattered light through trees. Shindo aimed to create a 'moment in time' rather than just an object, using natural materials to evoke a sense of tranquility and connection to nature. Kengo Kuma collaborated with Gandia Blasco to create ‘Hos,’ a furniture collection that explores the interplay between timber and textiles. The collection features rug-like textiles made from recycled PET fibers draped over structural wood frames, reminiscent of Japanese temple joinery. Kuma appreciated the rich texture and natural roughness of the recycled PET, using it to create a harmonious blend with wood. Additionally, Nao Tamura launched the ‘Dunne’ collection for Gandia Blasco, characterized by streamlined curves inspired by ocean waves. Muji, with Paris-based Studio 5.5, unveiled a modular micro-house during Milan Design Week. This manifesto for modern living was constructed from five functional ‘slices’ using bio-based and repurposable materials, including recycled textiles for insulation. The design prioritized sustainability and essentialist functionality, featuring natural ventilation, a white roof for heat reduction and rainwater collection, a deep window-side wooden bathtub in the 'ofuro' bathroom, and a mini Japanese 'niwa' garden. The interior boasted a metal grid system for adaptable storage and a tatami sleeping area, epitomizing micro-living efficiency. Maruni Wood Industry presented its 2025 collection, showcasing designs by Naoto Fukasawa, Jasper Morrison, and Cecilie Manz. Fukasawa's updated Hiroshima sofa included a new modular addition with an angled design, promoting comfortable conversations. Cecilie Manz introduced ‘Maku,’ a serene screen made from washi paper and hinoki cypress, designed as a versatile object that can function as a sculpture or a light source. Her expanded Shoto collection featured a high table and stools with softly rounded edges. Jasper Morrison's new Lightwood Sofa, with its circular wood armrests and soft cushions, emphasized lightness and a flat-packed design. His T&O collection also expanded to include high-end office furniture, reflecting a shift towards more inspiring workspaces. Adal Look into Nature focused on revitalizing the tatami industry by reimagining igusa (rush grass) in contemporary forms. Their exhibition featured the Haori Armchair, with a traditional kimono jacket-shaped cover, and Nagare, undulating wall panels of woven igusa inspired by natural movements. Karimoku Case (KC), Karimoku New Standard (KNS), and Mas presented distinct approaches to design. KC showcased new work designed for specific spatial projects, emphasizing serenity and comfort. KNS and Mas created a lounge space with brightly colored furnishings and prototypes, including a new paper lamp and contemporary woven baskets, set against an urban film installation. Yomosugaru, a new Japanese lighting brand, debuted minimalist outdoor lights inspired by nature. Highlights included Suiren (water lily) with flat circular lights, Shobu (iris) with brushstroke-like black forms, and Kodama, a contemporary interpretation of Japan’s tree spirits. Time & Style harmonized Japanese washi paper with Italian architecture in their renovated Largo Treves showroom, displaying their new 2025 collection of contemporary pieces in a serene setting. Hideo, specializing in high-quality freestanding bathtubs, exhibited luxuriously spacious white tubs made from eco-sustainable materials, such as Cristalplant Biobased Active. Finally, Kaikado, Japan’s oldest tea caddy makers, celebrated their 150th anniversary with a book and an exhibition of 150 tea caddies, alongside demonstrations of their craftsmanship. Nagano Interior showcased a new series of stools made from camphor wood, featuring playful finishes and a foldable wooden bookcase. #MilanDesignWeek #JapaneseDesign #FurnitureDesign #LightingDesign #SustainableDesign #Craftsmanship #MinimalistDesign #InteriorDesign #ProductInnovation

Kenneth Cobonpue, a globally recognized and award-winning furniture designer, discusses his methods for maintaining creative inspiration and avoiding burnout. Cobonpue, who established his eponymous brand in 1998, emphasizes the importance of continuous inspiration. He achieves this through travel, taking breaks, spending time with friends, and collaborating with his design team. Discussions with his designers, including encouraging them to explore new materials, are integral to his creative process. He highlights the value of a strong team in fostering innovation. Cobonpue's brand, which caters to a diverse clientele including Hollywood personalities and royalty, has expanded its offerings with the "Kcurated" line, providing smaller, more affordable furnishings, and the Fable Cafe + Lounge at its Bonifacio Global City showroom. His designs have also been featured in major productions and on album covers. He is a consistent participant in Manila FAME, the Philippines’ premier trade show for home, fashion, and lifestyle products. Cobonpue has a long-standing connection with Manila FAME, recalling attending its first edition as a child with his mother, Betty Cobonpue, who was an exhibitor. He notes the Philippines' historical prominence in design within the region, which once made Manila FAME a globally significant event. Despite changes and increased competition, he remains a staunch supporter of the fair, recognizing its importance as the country's sole remaining major trade show for the industry. The 73rd edition of Manila FAME adopted an "Objects of Nature" theme, focusing on ecological sustainability. DTI Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque underscored the event's role in celebrating Filipino identity and empowering local artisans and entrepreneurs through design innovation and access to international markets. Cobonpue, along with fellow designers Tony Gonzales and Milo Naval, previewed their collections, which emphasized sustainability. The event also featured pieces from Design Commune, a product development program, and Artisans Village, which highlighted regional crafts from Bohol, Ilocos Sur, Quirino, and Tarlac, as well as specialized components from Philippine manufacturers. These exhibits were showcased to buyers at the World Trade Center in Pasay City. Cobonpue advises aspiring designers to attend Manila FAME to understand the industry and potentially collaborate with established companies, given the high costs of setting up independent manufacturing. Gonzales, a veteran exhibitor of 30 years, agrees on the trade fair's role in providing exposure and a platform for manufacturers, and expresses his commitment to mentoring emerging designers. Naval adds a practical perspective, stressing the importance of designing to meet specific needs and reiterating the ecological theme's message of sustainability and environmental awareness, which served as a foundational principle for participating designers at Manila FAME 2025. #KennethCobonpue #FurnitureDesign #CreativeProcess #ManilaFAME #DesignInspiration #PhilippineDesign #Sustainability #EcologicalTheme #DesignInnovation