12 Brazilian Design Highlights from the Milan Furniture Fair 2023

In a recent Brazilian Design Week event in Washington, diplomat Sérgio Amaral highlighted the growing global recognition of Brazilian design, nearly a century after its inception. This movement, now taking its place in the Modernist pantheon, is characterized by an elusive quality known as _Brasilidade_, or Brazilianness. Unlike its Scandinavian or Bauhaus counterparts, Brazilian modernism is defined by "unpretentious sophistication," curves, soothing corners, comfort, and a sensual freedom, as described by those immersed in the field. This unique aesthetic is being brought to North America by distributors like Sossego, founded by Jonathan Durling after he encountered designer Aristeu Pires. Similarly, R & Company co-founders Zesty Meyers and Evan Snyderman have been instrumental in revitalizing the legacies of mid-century Brazilian masters such as Lina Bo Bardi and Joaquim Tenreiro, showcasing their work in New York. There is a clear and growing global appetite for this distinct style. The event also featured an exhibition at the chancery, a 1971 black-glass cube designed by Brazilian architect Olavo Redig de Campos, displaying iconic pieces by Oscar Niemeyer, José Zanine Caldas, Sérgio Rodrigues, Bo Bardi, and Tenreiro, alongside contemporary works from Domingos Tótora, Guilherme Wentz, and Pires. Zesty Meyers recounted his two-decade quest, sparked by Oscar Niemeyer's architecture in Brasília, to uncover the hidden world of Brazilian furniture design. His search began in the late 1990s when he realized that such monumental architecture must have been complemented by equally remarkable local design. With minimal archival resources and no internet, Meyers and Snyderman embarked on detective work, initially finding only small photos in design yearbooks. Their persistence led them to Brazil, where they discovered a vibrant, largely unknown artisan-design scene, characterized by rich woods, intricate carving skills, and a profound sense of beauty. Many custom pieces, they found, remain in private collections, making the discovery process all the more challenging and rewarding. Paradoxically, Brazil's political isolation and delayed industrialization, despite early exposure to European avant-garde and internationalism, fostered a uniquely artisanal and sensual style, free from dogmatic constraints. This environment allowed designers to create without adherence to rigid rules, enabling an aesthetic deeply rooted in nature. Sculptor Domingos Tótora, for instance, integrates the sinuosity and textures of Brazil's mountains into his work, exemplified by his home in Maria de Fe. Facing the endangerment of noble hardwoods like Brazilian rosewood and Pernambuco wood, Tótora has adopted sustainable practices. He crafts pieces like vases, trays, benches, and coffee table bases from recycled cardboard, which he processes with soil, water, and paste, molding and baking the material in natural sunlight, then hand-sculpting and burnishing it to achieve a smooth, silky finish. This resourcefulness embodies _jeitinho_, a Brazilian colloquialism for finding a creative workaround, which, along with _Brasilidade_, remains central to the past, present, and future of Brazilian modernism. #BrazilianDesign #ModernFurniture #InteriorDesign #Brasilidade #ArtisanDesign #SustainableDesign #CulturalAesthetics #MidCenturyModern #DesignHistory

Ibiyane, a design studio founded in 2020 by Tania Doumbe Fines and Élodie Dérond, originated during the lockdown period. Doumbe Fines, with a background in interior design, had a long-held ambition to design a chair. This led to the creation of an African birthing chair, which subsequently resulted in an invitation to create a seat for an exhibition. During this process, Dérond joined, and their collaborative synergy sparked the official formation of Ibiyane. The studio’s initial operations were based in Montreal and later relocated to Martinique, near Dérond’s childhood home. Ibiyane's core philosophy revolves around exploring the narratives embedded within objects and fostering deeper dialogues between creators and collectors. The name 'Ibiyane' is derived from the Batonga language, meaning 'to know one another,' reflecting the founders' belief in design as a medium for conversation and the exchange of ideas about the world, beauty, and design principles. This ethos is exemplified in their Elombe series, which garnered significant acclaim at Milan Design Week 2023. The term 'Elombe' translates to 'conversation,' and each piece in the numbered series is conceived as a distinct conversation, emphasizing an ongoing practice of dialogue and evolving understanding. Living and working in Martinique has profoundly influenced Ibiyane's design methodology. The studio has begun to incorporate local resources such as Caribbean pine and other native timbers, expanding beyond their initial stack-laminated techniques. Their design language is characterized by organic forms and curves, prioritizing simplicity while maintaining functionality. The designers actively engage with their natural surroundings, often drawing inspiration directly from elements found on the beach, allowing the inherent qualities of materials, particularly wood, to guide their sculpting process. Despite their rapid rise and critical recognition, including an early exhibition at Carpenters Workshop Gallery’s 'The New Guard: Stories from the New World,' Doumbe Fines and Dérond maintain a grounded perspective. Dérond, who is not formally trained in design, attributes this to her 'outsider' status, which she believes fosters a childlike and intuitive approach to creation. Doumbe Fines views their early successes as an expansion of possibilities, reinforcing their commitment to integrating an African essence into modern design. They aim to imbue their work with the philosophy and intentionality observed in traditional African art, sculpture, and design. Ibiyane’s ambitious and long-term vision positions them as a significant force in the design landscape. Their work is scheduled to be featured in an upcoming exhibition titled 'Enthroned' at the Jessica Silverman Gallery, running from January 11 to March 2, 2024, showcasing pieces from ten female-led design practices. The studio's work is also highlighted in the January 2024 issue of Wallpaper* magazine. #IbiyaneDesign #CaribbeanDesign #FurnitureMaking #MilanDesignWeek2023 #MartiniqueCraftsmanship #SustainableDesign #AfricanInspiredDesign #SculpturalFurniture #EmergingDesigners

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

Salone del Mobile 2024, held from April 16-21, alongside Milan Design Week, presented an extensive program of events, installations, and new product launches across various venues in Milan. This year's Salone del Mobile introduced an experimental approach, including a new cultural program and the biannual Eurocucina and International Bathroom Exhibition. A notable highlight was the involvement of filmmaker David Lynch, who contributed “Interiors by David Lynch. A Thinking Room,” an immersive installation designed to be a meditative space. The fair also featured 'Under the Surface,' an installation reflecting on water's role in bathroom design, created by Accurat, Design Group Italia, and Salotto NY. This submerged island installation encouraged contemplation on daily water consumption habits and how modern bathroom design can influence them. Additionally, the Design Kiosk, designed by DWA Design Studio and curated by Corraini, was set up in Piazza della Scala, offering art and design publications and serving as a platform for creative discussions. Fuorisalone 2024, the city-wide counterpart to Salone del Mobile, transformed Milan into a vibrant design hub. Key locations included Triennale Milano, which hosted the Wallpaper* Class of '24 exhibition showcasing emerging global talent. Other exhibitions at Triennale included Inga Sempé’s ‘La casa imperfetta,’ displaying her recent work within a domestic setting, and ‘Emeco to Emeco,’ an exhibition designed by Jasper Morrison celebrating 80 years of the American brand. Rossana Orlandi's ‘Design Walk in Budapest’ featured Hungarian designers, and Keiji Takeuchi curated ‘Walking Sticks & Canes,’ an interpretation of the walking stick by various designers. ‘Universo satellite’ marked 25 years of Salone Satellite, supporting emerging designers, and ‘Io sono un drago - The true story of Alessandro Mendini’ honoured the late designer’s legacy. Capsule Plaza, returning at Spazio Maiocchi and 10 Corso Como, curated by Alessio Ascari and Paul Cournet, presented contemporary brands and creatives pushing design boundaries. Collaborations included Ecco Leather with At.Kollektive, Harry Nuryev with Poltronova, Alaska Alaska with Nike, and Muller Van Severen with BD Barcelona. An immersive Panton lounge celebrated Verner Panton’s work, featuring reissued pieces and new collaborations. Rimowa partnered with La Marzocco for a grooved aluminium-clad coffee machine, showcased in a Milanese café installation. Marimekko’s pop-up Unikko cafe brought its iconic print to life. Alcova 2024 utilized two historical villas, Villa Borsani and Villa Bagatti Valsecchi, to host a multilayered presentation including furniture by Junya Ishigami, collaborations by Objects of Common Interest, Kiki Goti, cc-tapis, and Calico Wallpaper with Colin King. Dropcity, located in the arches around Stazione Centrale, hosted ‘We Mediterranean,’ a collaborative project on home design, and ‘Elements: Unique Details of 20th Century Architecture and Interior,’ a photographic exhibition. Caffè Populaire, a pop-up by Lambert and Fils and DWA, featured Sophie Lou Jacobsen and Ananas Ananas, displaying new lighting and a collection of vessels made from recycled materials. Bagni Misteriosi, a Rationalist public pool, hosted Azimut’s ‘Mooring by the Moon’ installation by Michele de Lucchi and AMDL Circle, culminating in the unveiling of the new Seadeck 6 yacht. Milanese Palazzos, such as Palazzo Visconti, Palazzo del Senato, Palazzo Isimbardi, Palazzo Cusani, and Palazzo Litta, opened their doors for exquisite installations. Flos presented new projects at Palazzo Visconti, Kohler unveiled ‘Formation 02’ toilet design at Palazzo del Senato, and Lasvit showcased ‘Porta’ at Palazzo Isimbardi. Atelier Biagetti collaborated with MCM at Palazzo Cusani, and Palazzo Litta featured material-based displays, Gufram’s iconic Bocca sofa, and Nifemi Marcus Bello’s poignant Omi Iyọ. Alessi presented ‘Myth Makes Belief’ at Palazzo Borromeo D’Adda, and Loewe Lamps celebrated design and craft through light at Palazzo Citterio. Brera’s picturesque streets hosted Design Space AlUlA with works by Saudi and international designers, Loro Piana's 'A Tribute to Cini Boeri,' and new collections from Lodes and Flexform. Via Solferino featured Boffi, Salvatori, Dimoregallery, Muuto, Ceramica Flaminia, and Missoni Home with Roda. Hermès staged an exquisite exhibition at La Pelota, while Blond Laboratory presented new designs for offline living. Unno Gallery displayed 'The Origen' with works by Mark Grattan and others, and ECAL showcased student work and research projects. Grau presented a bonfire light sculpture installation, and Moroso unveiled new designs. Mutina showcased a special release by Ronan Bouroullec, and UniFor unveiled ‘Andromeda.’ Interni Venosta, a new furniture brand, debuted at Gipsoteca Fumagalli e Dossi. The Quadrilatero della Moda featured Italian furniture showrooms like B&B Italia, Edra, Natuzzi, and Cassina, which reissued Eames lighting. Technogym celebrated 40 years with an exhibition, and Kaldewei previewed a collaboration with E15. Lighting brands Artemide, Danese, Flos, Nemo, and Occhio were present on Corso Monforte, alongside Kvadrat’s #coloureffect installation and Living Divani Gallery. Porro unveiled new pieces, and fashion brands like Armani Casa, Meridiani, Visionnaire, Poliform, and Baxter showcased their latest collections. Gaggenau launched new products at Villa Necchi Campiglio, while Bottega Veneta partnered with Cassina and Fondation Le Corbusier for ‘On the Rocks.’ The Prada Frames symposium, led by Formafantasma, returned to Museo Bagatti Valsecchi, and JW Anderson made his Milan Design Week debut. Gucci Design Ancora reimagined design icons, and Herno presented ‘With Love, Herno Blooms.’ Faye Toogood staged her Rude Arts Club, and Aesop opened a new store with an installation by Nicolas Schuybroek. 5Vie, a historical district, focused on 'Unlimited Design Orchestra,' featuring Gunjan Gupta’s ‘Indian Tiny Megastore’ and Rooms Studio’s ‘Bedrooms’ display. Gaetano Pesce’s exhibition ‘Nice to See You’ and ‘L’Uomo Stanco’ installation were also featured. South Milan’s Zona Tortona and Navigli district hosted Ikea’s exhibition, Zaha Hadid Design with Karimoku, Atelier Biagetti’s ‘Love Boat,’ and Formafantasma’s ‘La Casa Dentro’ exhibition at ICA. Milan’s design galleries, including Nilufar, Nilufar Depot, Rossana Orlandi, Dimorecentrale, and Oxilia Gallery, showcased commissioned projects and works by emerging talent. #SaloneDelMobile2024 #MilanDesignWeek #Fuorisalone #DesignInstallations #FurnitureDesign #ItalianDesign #EmergingDesigners #LuxuryInteriors #ArtAndCulture

This blog post chronicles an eight-hour sprint through Milan Design Week, offering a comprehensive overview of 11 exhibitions, two dinners, and numerous networking opportunities, resulting in over 1,100 photos and a personal record for steps taken. The journey began at Nilufar Depot, a Milanese gallery celebrating its 10th anniversary with a theatrical presentation across three floors, showcasing a blend of classic icons and new designs, including a fur-lined maze with metal furniture and a striking red room by Objects of Common Interest. The tour continued to Casa Cork by David Rockwell, an immersive installation by Cork Collective that highlighted the versatility of natural cork. This exhibition featured various cork furnishings, from wall sconces to lounge chairs, and centered around a replica cork tree, demonstrating cork’s malleable properties and regenerative qualities. Next, SCP, a British manufacturer, marked its 40th anniversary with an exhibition divided into three sections: George Sowden’s rubberized lighting designs, SCP’s 2025 collection of foam-free upholstered seating emphasizing sustainable innovation, and the Boxed collection, featuring easily shippable objects designed to fit into a shipping container. Ligne Roset reissued its 1970s and 1980s Sandra settee and Kashima armchair, presenting them in new colors that maintain a contemporary feel while offering comfort. Loewe's exhibition, held in Palazzo Citterio, showcased 25 teapots created by various artists, designers, and architects, contextualizing a new line of homewares. The display transformed the utilitarian teapot form into art, presented dramatically in a bunker-like basement space. Marimekko collaborated with artist Laila Gohar to launch a new collection of bedding, sleepwear, and ceramics featuring colorful stripes. The installation included a grand-sized bed and playfully addressed the idea of eating in bed, symbolizing a blend of home life and art. Beni Rugs, a brand working with Moroccan artisans, presented “Intersection,” a line of 10 new rugs made in collaboration with Studio KO. The collection highlighted five weaving techniques, drawing inspiration from paperwork and showcasing the narrative ability of rugs in a former textile shop. Ikea revisited its Stockholm collection, featuring high-end pieces like chairs, shelving units, and a three-seat sofa, all in tan tones, presented in a large industrial space. Calico Wallpaper, in collaboration with Stephen Burks Man Made, displayed its Particulaire design, a wallpaper featuring favorite objects gathered during travels, showcased at the Instituto dei Ciechi. The exhibition included human-scale cutouts of selected objects, creating an immersive experience. The journey concluded with L’Appartamento by Artemest, which showcased Italian craftsmanship by opening Palazzo Donizetti to the public for its 10th anniversary, featuring 180 Italian artisans and artists across six unique spaces. Lastly, Capsule Plaza hosted Hem and USM. Hem celebrated its 10-year anniversary with an immersive suite showcasing collaborations and new releases like Philippe Malouin’s Great sofa, while USM provided a backdrop for Pharrell’s Humanrace skincare brand with a modular bathroom design. #MilanDesignWeek #FurnitureDesign #ProductShowcase #InteriorDecor #SustainableDesign #Craftsmanship #ExhibitionHighlights #HomeFurnishings #ArtAndDesign

Wallpaper* design editor Rosa Bertoli has compiled a list of the top 10 furniture launches of 2023, showcasing a diverse range of designs that highlight color, clever concepts, and classic aesthetics. These selections emerge from a year filled with design weeks, fairs, and various events within the design industry. The featured launches encompass brand introductions, new collaborations, outdoor furniture collections, and even pieces designed for religious spaces, reflecting a broad spectrum of innovation and style. One notable inclusion is Gabriel Tan's modular furniture for Herman Miller, designed with a focus on interaction. The 'Luva' modular sofa, inspired by the Portuguese word for 'glove,' and the 'Cyclade' coffee tables, which evoke the ancient supercontinent of Pangea with their island-like forms, emphasize versatility and personal interpretation. Tan's work encourages users to engage with the designs in different ways, allowing for individual connections based on their unique perspectives. Andu Masebo's transformative project, where a 1998 Alfa Romeo 145 Cloverleaf was disassembled and repurposed into furniture pieces, also made the list. Presented at the London Design Festival 2023, this collection includes a nightlight crafted from car engine parts. The nightlight, designed to cast intriguing shadows, tells the story of the car's first owner, who found comfort and inspiration to live an adventurous life after a personal loss. Masebo's work often blends simple objects with profound narratives, offering emotional depth to functional items. Molteni & C's debut in outdoor furniture, featuring two complementary collections by Vincent Van Duysen, marks a significant development. These collections, Landmark and Timeout, celebrate the connection to nature and a sophisticated approach to outdoor living. Landmark draws inspiration from an unreleased 1994 design by Luca Meda, while Timeout reflects Van Duysen's affinity for modernism through its aluminum construction. This launch also incorporates reissued pieces from Molteni's history, including Gio Ponti, Ron Gilad, and Foster + Partners. Karl Lagerfeld Maison, the fashion brand's new interior branch, launched its inaugural furniture collection during Milan Design Week 2023. Collaborating with interior designer Matteo Nunziati, the collection comprises four lines named after Lagerfeld’s favorite Parisian areas: 'Saint Germain,' 'Saint Guillaume,' 'Quai Voltaire,' and 'Rue de l’Université.' These collections are a direct reflection of Lagerfeld’s personal design philosophy, which seamlessly combined classic and historical elements with contemporary aesthetics, emphasizing a curated and highly refined approach to interiors rather than mere collecting. Knoll reissued two of Florence Knoll’s furniture designs from 1954, 'Model 31' (a lounge chair) and 'Model 33' (a small sofa), which had been out of production since 1968. This reintroduction pays homage to Knoll’s enduring legacy as a pioneering figure in American design, celebrated for her revolutionary impact on modern interiors. The designs, nearly 70 years old, remain relevant due to their simple, efficient forms and adaptability to contemporary spaces, demonstrating her forward-thinking vision for functional and aesthetically pleasing furniture. Ozwald Boateng's 'Culture and Craft' collaboration with Poltrona Frau reimagines classic Italian furniture pieces. Boateng, a Savile Row designer, applied his distinctive patterns, such as the 'Tribal' print, to iconic Poltrona Frau items like the 'Chester' sofa (1912) and the 'Vanity Fair' chair (1984). The 'Tribal' print, referencing traditional Kente Cloth Motifs, integrates subtly yet vividly, showcasing a fusion of Poltrona Frau’s craftsmanship with Boateng’s unique aesthetic, rendered in a vibrant palette of red, yellow, purple, blue, green, and black. Flexform’s ‘Supermax’ sofa, a contemporary reinterpretation of Antonio Citterio’s iconic 1983 ‘Max’ sofa, also features in the list. The original ‘Max’ sofa, known for its kidney bean-shaped seating and tubular frame, gained legendary status through its unique sculptural design and harmonious interplay with architectural spaces. The ‘Supermax’ updates this classic with a modern perspective, stemming from a retrospective look at Flexform’s product photography, illustrating the timeless appeal of well-conceived furniture design. The selection also includes new small sofas tailored for compact living spaces, addressing the growing demand for functional yet stylish furniture in urban environments. These designs from leading furniture companies, crafted in collaboration with contemporary creatives, offer alternatives to larger seating arrangements. With lengths under 185 cm, these compact sofas are ideal for furnishing smaller apartments or adding comfort to spare rooms, balancing thoughtful design with excellent craftsmanship. Guillaume Bardet's liturgical furniture for the restoration of Notre-Dame de Paris represents another significant launch. Tasked with creating an altar, lectern, cathedra, tabernacle, and baptistery for the cathedral’s late 2024 reopening, Bardet’s designs emphasize simple forms and bronze materials, aiming for a timeless and graceful aesthetic. His work contributes to the rebuilding of a historic landmark, blending contemporary design with the sacred context of the cathedral. Lastly, Ikea’s 80th-anniversary collection, Nytillverkad, reissues vintage designs with bold colors and sustainable materials. This collection taps into Ikea’s extensive archive, bringing back beloved pieces with a fresh, modern twist, prioritizing color and pattern for contemporary homes, reflecting a desire for personalized and vibrant living spaces post-pandemic. #FurnitureDesign #InteriorDesign #DesignEditorPicks #ProductLaunches #ModularFurniture #OutdoorFurniture #LuxuryInteriors #ClassicReissues #SustainableDesign

The article delves into the latest offering from Fendi Casa, the 'F-Affair' sofa, designed by Controvento, which ingeniously transforms the iconic interlocking 'FF' logo into a three-dimensional, modular seating system. This new piece is poised to be a highlight at Salone del Mobile 2024 and will be featured in the May issue of Wallpaper*. The genesis of the Fendi logo is traced back to Karl Lagerfeld's arrival at the brand in 1965. Prior to this, the logo depicted a squirrel on a walnut tree branch, symbolizing the diligent work ethic of founder Edoardo Fendi. Lagerfeld swiftly revolutionized the brand's identity by sketching the 'FF' logo, which stands for 'fun furs,' in a matter of seconds. This emblem quickly became synonymous with luxury and avant-garde fashion globally, appearing on a diverse range of items from travel trunk linings and trainers to belt buckles, and even inspiring an entire collection in 2018. More recently, the 'FF' motif influenced Peter Mabeo’s ‘Efo’ coffee table, which is being re-released this year in a palladium and light grey finish. The 'F-Affair' sofa continues this tradition of reimagining the 'FF' logo. Building on the rounded and organic forms introduced by Mabeo’s table, Controvento’s design translates the double Fs into structural, upholstered elements that form a versatile modular seating system. This system includes a corner piece, a central piece, an ottoman, and a chaise longue, all designed to interlock seamlessly. This modularity allows for flexible configurations to suit various spaces and design preferences. Particular attention is drawn to an off-white version of the sofa, crafted from micro bouclé and white shearling. The pale upholstery choice is highlighted for its ability to accentuate the distinct letter-shaped components, allowing their unique form to stand out. The sofa will be available in a comprehensive selection of colors and materials from Fendi Casa’s extensive textile collection, offering customization options to cater to individual tastes and interior schemes. The article concludes by noting Fendi Casa's presence at Piazza della Scala in Milan and directs readers to their website for more information, positioning the 'F-Affair' sofa as a significant design statement that marries brand heritage with contemporary functionality and aesthetic appeal. #FendiCasa #SofaDesign #SaloneDelMobile2024 #ModularFurniture #LuxuryInteriors #InteriorDesign #DesignInnovation #FurnitureDesign #WallpaperHighlights

The Feria Hábitat València trade fair, held from September 30 to October 3, 2024, showcased the latest furniture and lighting designs from nearly 700 exhibitors hailing from Spain, various European countries, Turkey, and Mexico. The event provided a platform for renowned designers to present innovative products. This year's selection included a diverse range of items, from seating collections inspired by natural landscapes to modular bar concepts. One prominent offering was the Cadenza collection by Spanish designer David López Quincoces for Expormim. This collection reimagines rattan, incorporating it into modern silhouettes for a loveseat, three-seater sofa, two armchair sizes, and an extra-large sofa. The backs and arms of these pieces are crafted from traditional rattan, offering a fresh take on the material. Omayra Maymó, a designer from Madrid, contributed the Porta high-back rectilinear armchair for Omelette Editions. This chair exemplifies abstracted brutalism, drawing inspiration from the entrance portico of the Chandigarh Assembly Hall, designed by Le Corbusier in 1951. From Made Studio in collaboration with Ondarreta, the Gumi modular sofa collection was presented. Its rounded, gummy bear-esque modules allow for extensive configuration possibilities, including floating iterations, corner modules, optional poufs, and integrated tables. Andreu Carulla designed Catalina for Vergés, an efficient and stackable chair. This piece offers a minimalist interpretation of a traditional rush seat chair, enhanced by the use of ash wood, rope, and leather materials. Piero Lissoni, an Italian master designer, collaborated with Viccarbe to create Perxa, a visually light yet robust wooden armchair. Designed to introduce warmth into work environments, Perxa highlights Lissoni's distinctive touch. The Tibo collection, comprising poufs and side tables, was designed by Valèncian firm Arnau Reyna for Mobboli. The poufs are available in three sizes and can include optional integrated wheels for increased mobility. Søren Rose, a Danish designer, partnered with Gandiablasco for the Arena collection, which takes inspiration from sand dunes. The collection features forms reminiscent of basketry and includes a powder-coated aluminum club chair, armchair, coffee tables, side tables, a two-seater sofa, and a swing chair. Benjamin Hubert of Layer extended the Calma collection for Andreu World, presenting cocooning lounge chairs suitable for corporate and residential settings. These chairs are offered in high- and low-back versions, with an optional wider wingback headrest for added privacy and comfort. The Riviera modular bar collection, created by Michele Corbani and Andrea Spada of Ilmiodesign for iSimar, is tailored for the hospitality market. It features wavy galvanized rods that evoke 1970s Italian beach scenes and allows for two-tone color specifications. Finally, the Nigiri stools from Annud, designed by Valèncian firm Dibloo Estudio, derive their form from the Japanese sushi dish. These stools are constructed from solid wood, MDF, foam, upholstery, and ribbon, reflecting a playful and unique design concept. #FeriaHabitatValencia #FurnitureDesign #LightingDesign #SpanishDesign #EuropeanDesign #InteriorDesignTrends #ProductInnovation #ContemporaryFurniture #DesignExhibition

The year 2024 is characterized by a highly personalized approach to interior design, where nearly anything goes. This shift is evident in the rapid cycling of viral aesthetics on platforms like TikTok, including 'Unexpected Red,' 'Bookshelf Wealth,' and 'Mob Wife' trends. Design experts emphasize that personalization is paramount, with a growing focus on previously underestimated areas of the home such as hallways, pantries, utility rooms, and laundry rooms. Searches for 'handmade' and 'eclectic interior design vintage' items are steadily increasing on platforms like Etsy and Pinterest, reflecting a desire for unique, collected pieces rather than coordinated sets. Key trends emerging from Milan Design Week 2024 and insights from ELLE DECOR A-List designers and industry experts include a move towards more luxurious and embellished furniture. Gold accents are becoming prominent, moving beyond traditional stone and leather palettes. Examples include Edra's new Minerals fabrics with glittering upholstery and Molteni&C;'s gold edition of the D.154.2 armchair. Armani Casa's new collection, inspired by Giorgio Armani's travels, also features significant metallic accents, such as gold leaf in stone surfaces and 24-karat gold hardware in kitchen ranges from Officine Gullo. Outdoor furniture is also experiencing a surge, with an emphasis on rounded and squishy forms. This continues the trend of kidney bean-shaped furniture seen in recent years, now extending to outdoor sofas, armchairs, and cocktail tables. Brands like Dedon and Meridiani showcased curvy outdoor pieces, while De Padova introduced the 'Afternoons' collection with a woven basket aesthetic. Indoors, the preference for squishy, low armchairs and sofas is highlighted by Poltrona Frau's new 'Squash' collection by Faye Toogood and Minotti's Emmi armchair by Hannes Peer. The aesthetic of the late 1980s and 1990s is making a comeback, replacing the long-standing fascination with the '70s. This era is remembered for its optimism and pop culture influences. Ikea is reissuing popular '80s designs like the Klippan sofa and Poäng lounge chair. Local firms are also drawing inspiration from this period, evident in collections featuring postmodern-ish chairs, lamps, and tables. Cork is gaining traction as a material of choice due to its sustainability, being biodegradable, chemical-free, durable, water-resistant, and renewable. Designers like Studio Dorian and Charlap Hyman & Herrero are incorporating cork extensively in interiors, covering walls and ceilings. High-gloss walls are out, and textured surfaces are in. Designers are moving away from slick, reflective finishes in favor of brushed or hand-applied textures such as Roman clay, limewash, or hand-tooled plaster. This preference for texture also extends to natural materials, with designers exploring three-dimensional patterns in wood and manipulated stone surfaces. Brown is emerging as a significant statement color, replacing drab gray tones. Dark brown, yellow, and light brown are identified as top color trends, offering warmth and richness. Rug companies like Woven are incorporating chocolate browns, rust, and golden wheat tones into their designs. Terra-cotta tiles are experiencing a revival, with designers appreciating their sculptural opportunities and natural shades. Ceramic and terra-cotta were highlighted as popular materials in a 1stDibs survey, admired for their versatility across various design styles. Bouclé fabric remains popular, but with fresh updates. While a classic, new versions feature thicker pile and diverse colors, moving away from skimpy cream and off-white variations. The trend leans towards integrating curves and softer shapes into furniture design, seen in iconic pieces like Hans Wegner’s Wishbone chairs and Vladimir Kagan’s Serpentine sofas. Artisanal, handmade pieces are highly sought after, reflecting a desire for human touch and irregularity in design. This includes ceramic tile, hand-carved wood, and handblown glass, with a focus on celebrating imperfections in natural materials. Finally, high-tech lighting is becoming an essential decorating tool, offering the ability to change light intensity and color, enhancing both ambiance and the display of art. Companies like Philips, AiSPiRE, and USAI Lighting provide programmable LED solutions. Sustainability continues to drive the adoption of alternative materials. Designers are prioritizing materials that are consciously sourced and environmentally friendly, such as furniture made from recycled cardboard or sawdust. Victorian-era details are also seeing a resurgence, with a modern interpretation that emphasizes architectural elements like beaded board, square and diamond shapes, crown moldings, and chevron floors, balancing ornate styles with cleaner, more geometric forms. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTrends2024 #MilanDesignWeek #SustainableDesign #FurnitureTrends #ColorTrends #TextureInDesign #ArtisanalCraft

Milan Design Week 2022 showcased a variety of temporary installations designed to captivate the design community. These installations frequently leveraged unique settings, ranging from abandoned nunneries and military hospitals to former sports venues and historic villas, to create impactful experiences. The event featured nine notable installations that demonstrated innovative approaches to design and material use. One featured installation was “A Statement of Form” by Gaggenau, a kitchen manufacturer, which was located in the Villa Necchi Campiglio, a historic Italian villa known from the film “House of Gucci.” This installation, a collaboration with architecture firm 1zu33, marble expert Salvatori, and ceramic specialist Kaufmann, presented a sleek kitchen design within a luxurious setting. Another highlight was "Monumental Wonders" by SolidNature, exhibited at Alcova’s Lavanderia building. This installation showcased the versatility of natural and semi-precious stones, featuring nine types of onyx in a dramatic entry portal. OMA designed a stone-wrapped doorway and marble-and-onyx furniture pieces, including a rotating cabinet and a bed with hidden storage. Sabine Marcelis contributed a pink onyx bathroom sculpture, demonstrating the material’s aesthetic and functional potential. “Silentscape” by Isabella Del Grandi for Slalom, also at Alcova, focused on acoustics. This colorful sound studio installation integrated soft surfacing materials and suspended upholstered spheres to create a calming, sound-absorbing environment, highlighting acoustic system solutions. Hermès presented "Houses" by Charlotte Macaux Perelman, a luminous installation of ash wood and translucent colored paper structures at La Palota. Inspired by water towers, these glowing geometric forms displayed new cashmere fabric designs for the home. Flos’s “See the Stars Again” exhibition, curated by Calvi Brambilla at the Fabbrica Orobia, introduced 14 new lighting products. A key feature was the anniversary edition of the Arco lamp, Arco K, which showcased its lead-free crystal base. The exhibition also included sculptural displays and indoor gardens. Lee Broom’s “Divine Inspiration” presented six new lighting collections and 30 products in a gallery setting. Drawing inspiration from religious architecture, the exhibition featured unique moods in each room and included limited-edition hand-sculpted pieces, such as a broken pendant light in the Requiem collection. Amine El Gotaibi’s 300-pound ceiling-mounted weaving for Beni Rugs, titled Spoken Lines, was unveiled at Alcova. This site-specific artwork, made from 80 feet of natural wool, set the stage for a collection of 10 rugs and was crafted by a cooperative of female weavers in Morocco. Caffè Populaire, a collaboration between Lambert & Fils and DWA Design Studio, offered an _aperitivo_ garden at Alcova. The installation combined sculptural lighting from Lambert & Fils with flowered wallpaper by Superflower and various plantings. It featured an elevated interior garden and a water sculpture, contrasting Brutalist lighting forms with hyperrealistic floral imagery. Finally, "Holotype" by Refractory, a newly launched furniture brand, was presented at Alcova’s E/Space building. The installation created a unique sensory experience with the scent and visual presence of turmeric, used to tint concrete walls and piled on the ground. This backdrop framed Refractory’s artisanal furniture and lighting pieces, crafted from materials like cast bronze and solid black walnut, and incorporated paleontological specimens and imagery of America’s West. #MilanDesignWeek #InstallationArt #ProductDesign #InteriorDecor #FurnitureDesign #LightingDesign #TextileArt #MaterialInnovation #ExperientialDesign

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

Design Holding, a collaborative effort comprising Flos, B&B Italia, and Louis Poulsen, presented a unified exhibition booth at Salone del Mobile. The booth, designed by Calvi Brambilla, was conceptualized to resemble a life-size pinball game, featuring a graphic corridor that highlighted iconic products and celebrated designers from each brand. This corridor served as an engaging entry point, visually narrating the history and contributions of the three companies. Designers such as Achille Castiglioni, Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, Gaetano Pesce, Nendo, and Patricia Urquiola were prominently featured on interactive walls that illuminated, mimicking the dynamic play of a pinball machine. The booth was situated in the new S.project pavilion and aimed to reflect the collective philosophy of Design Holding, emphasizing the strong individual identities of Flos, B&B Italia, and Louis Poulsen while showcasing their shared historical connections and contemporary innovations. Following the interactive pinball corridor, the exhibition space diverged into three distinct areas, each dedicated to presenting the individual offerings of the participating brands. Flos, within its dedicated section, commemorated the 50th anniversary of Mario Bellini's cult design, the 'Chiara' lamp, by re-issuing it. In addition to this re-edition, Flos unveiled a range of new and innovative lighting systems. These new pieces were the result of collaborations with prominent designers, including Michael Anastassiades, Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, Antonio Citterio, Formafantasma, Piero Lissoni, Nendo, Philippe Starck, and Patricia Urquiola. Each designer contributed unique approaches to lighting, ranging from decorative track systems that offer endless configurations to pieces that integrate power cables as primary design features. Michael Anastassiades' contributions included 'Coordinates,' a system designed for various arrangements, and 'My Circuit,' a decorative lighting track system with individual curved and linear sections. Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec presented their 'Belt' lighting system, characterized by uniformly crafted leather belts. Formafantasma's 'Wireline' ingeniously utilized the power cable as a central design element, flattened to resemble a rubber belt. Patricia Urquiola's 'Flauta' drew inspiration from organs and flutes, with spotlights designed to capture and reverberate light using small circular reflectors. Piero Lissoni's 'Atom' was introduced as a compact fixture attached to the smallest professional track on the market for surface installation. Nendo’s contribution featured a design that combined a thin frame with an illuminated sphere, and the 'Heco' outdoor lighting collection offered two distinct configurations, with an intentional bending of the metal structure creating the illusion of the frame sinking under the illuminated sphere. The collective presentation demonstrated a balance between honoring design heritage and embracing forward-thinking innovation in lighting and furniture. #SaloneDelMobile #Flos #BBItalia #LouisPoulsen #CalviBrambilla #LightingDesign #FurnitureDesign #DesignHolding #MilanDesignWeek

Design studio Neri & Hu has collaborated with Molteni & C to create the "Twelve AM" collection, which centers around a multifunctional bed. This collection addresses the contemporary need for furniture that integrates seamlessly into various aspects of daily life, extending beyond its traditional function as a mere sleeping space. The designers, Rossana Hu and Lyndon Neri, aimed to create a resting place that also serves as a hub for other activities, reflecting a broader trend towards maximizing the utility of living spaces, particularly within the bedroom. The core of the collection is a bed featuring a smooth eucalyptus frame supported by slim steel legs. The design incorporates a neutral color palette, complemented by subtle leather accents. A distinctive curving headboard offers both an aesthetic element and a practical function, enhancing privacy and providing support for a long cushion upholstered in either fabric or leather. This design choice highlights an emphasis on comfort and versatility, enabling the bed to adapt to different user needs throughout the day. To facilitate its multitasking capabilities, the Twelve AM bed is equipped with various accessories and add-ons. These include side tables and a desk or shelf attachment, designed to cater to activities such as reading, working, or simply having essentials within reach. For instance, the desk attachment, positioned at the back of the headboard, offers a designated space for tasks like sketching or writing, while two circular side tables can be hooked over the bed to hold items like a glass of water. These integrated features transform the bed into a comprehensive personal station, blurring the lines between rest and productivity. Beyond the bed itself, the collection extends to complementary furniture pieces. A bench can be placed at the foot of the bed, providing additional seating or a surface. Furthermore, a separate, tall-backed valet bench is part of the range, offering a dedicated spot for clothing or personal items. These additional elements contribute to the collection's overall vision of a fully integrated bedroom environment that supports diverse activities. In developing the Twelve AM collection, Neri & Hu conducted extensive research, including a visit to Molteni & C’s headquarters in Milan. This allowed them to study the brand's rich archive, which includes iconic designs by figures such as Aldo Rossi and Gio Ponti, as well as more recent contributions from designers like Vincent Van Duysen, Michele De Lucchi, and Jasper Morrison. The collaboration aimed to honor Molteni & C's heritage while incorporating forward-thinking design principles, ensuring the new collection would resonate with both established traditions and contemporary demands. The designers emphasized their goal to create furniture that, while appearing one-dimensional at first glance, could ultimately be utilized both day and night. This approach reflects a conscious effort to address the evolving lifestyles of individuals who often require their living spaces to serve multiple purposes. The Twelve AM collection debuted at Salone del Mobile, marking the first partnership between Molteni & C and the Shanghai-based design duo, Neri & Hu, who founded their practice in 2004. This launch was one of several concurrent projects for Neri & Hu, who also presented collections for other notable brands during the Milan fair. #NeriHu #MolteniC #TwelveAMCollection #SaloneDelMobile #MultifunctionalFurniture #BedroomDesign #ContemporaryDesign #FurnitureInnovation #MilanDesignWeek

The 62nd Salone del Mobile in Milan, a prominent international design event, and its accompanying Fuorisalone events are showcasing a diverse range of Japanese design talent. Several established and emerging Japanese designers and brands are presenting their latest works, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and traditional craftsmanship. Among the newcomers at the Rho Fiera exhibition complex are Adal and Nagano. Adal is presenting its 'Look into Nature' brand, which re-imagines igusa (Japanese rush grass), traditionally used in tatami, as a sustainable material for contemporary furniture. This involves transforming igusa into flexible textiles for chair backrests, coffee table panels, minimalist room screens, and abstract wall art, all inspired by Japanese landscapes. Nagano Interior, on the other hand, focuses on solid wood, highlighting its natural grain and texture through meticulous hand-finishing in its 'Think Basic' series. Daft about Draft, directed by Taiju Yamashita, is exhibiting for the second time at Rho Fiera. The brand features plush furnishings and sleek tables characterized by curved forms, soft textiles, dusky tones, and a focus on velvety textures, dark woods, and brushed metals. Yamashita's approach views furniture as a medium for expression, aiming to create personal narratives through user experience. Sixteen works are on display this year, with six making their debut in Milan. Karimoku Furniture is presenting its largest Milan showing to date, with four of its brands spread across different venues. At Rho Fiera, Karimoku Case, a collaboration with renowned designers Norm Architects and Keiji Ashizawa, showcases furniture for specific architectural projects. New pieces include those designed for the 'Bellustar Tokyo' hotel (Case 09) and the 'Azabu Hills Residence' complex (Case 10), featuring curvilinear forms, subdued hues, and the first use of lighter-toned keyaki (zelkova) wood in the Case series. Fuorisalone events in Milan’s Tortona district feature Karimoku New Standard, making its first appearance in five years with an installation curated by Connie Husser and creatively directed by David Glaettli. Karimoku's collaboration with Zaha Hadid Design also returns with new additions to its architecturally inspired Seyun lineup. A new brand, Mas, an all-wood furniture line from Karimoku, is also introduced. Named after the traditional hinoki (Japanese cypress) masu cup and a nod to 'mass production,' Mas includes clean-lined chairs, benches, stools, and tables made from Japanese coniferous woods, detailing unique joinery. SaloneSatellite, which spotlights young designers, features Hana Mitsui, who is re-thinking traditional textile production through recycling waste materials. Her 'Visual Illusion' installation includes 'Blurring Checker,' a fabric inspired by the deliberate misalignment of independently dyed warp and weft threads in kasuri textiles, creating soft, blurred patterns. Product designer Kodai Iwamoto showcases new lighting works, including the 'Komoru' circular wall lamp and the 'Arrow Stand Lamp,' which emanates light mysteriously from behind, demonstrating his self-taught techniques in metalworking and wood carving. Further Fuorisalone innovations include the 'Origin of Simplicity. 20 Visions of Japanese Design' exhibition at the ADI Design Museum, curated by Rossella Menegazzo. This exhibition explores simplicity in Japanese design from the 1960s to the present, featuring over 150 works in a forest-like setting designed by Kenya Hara. The Isola Design Festival, expanding to new venues in Milan’s Isola district, includes three exhibitions with Japanese creators. Yu Watanabe transforms his space into an atelier for 'Disclosure: Design Studios Unveiled,' exhibiting material explorations and urushi (Japanese lacquer) pendant lamps. Shinkogeisha’s 'New Craft' exhibition combines design, engineering, and technology into contemporary craft, showcasing 3D-printed items like Nosemono (attachments to natural rocks and branches) and Tilde’s knit-textured radios. Arakawa Grip celebrates its 50th anniversary with an installation by Kaori Akiyama, and also features new furniture and homeware products from 16 Japanese designers. Other notable presentations include 'Wonderpowder,' a collaboration between design studio We+ and Shimadzu, exploring the design potential of powder as a material through an interactive installation at Dropcity. Majotae, a textile brand directed by Teruhiro Yanagihara Studio, is launching its first collection of naturally dyed bedding, reviving taima-fu, an extra-fine hemp fabric from the Edo Period, with the help of modern technology. #SaloneDelMobile #MilanDesignWeek #JapaneseDesigners #FurnitureDesign #SustainableMaterials #TextileInnovation #Craftsmanship #ArchitecturalDesign #ProductDesign

Milan Design Week and Salone del Mobile, annual events in April, draw a global audience of designers, curators, buyers, editors, and visitors. This week serves as a hub for creative ideas and industry discussions, offering insights into future trends in interiors, product design, and architecture. Four interior design experts from Arighi Bianchi, ROCCIA, Apollo Blinds, and My Fitted Bedroom analyze the potential impact of this year's key trends on UK interiors. One significant trend is "Playful Maximalism," indicating a shift away from subdued minimalism towards bold, expressive designs. This approach embraces vibrant colors, whimsical forms, and a mix of eclectic materials, as seen in Louis Vuitton’s flower-shaped record player and Loewe’s artistic teapots. Gavin Farrington of ROCCIA notes that this trend, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, encourages bold tile choices, expressive textures, and unexpected color pairings like deep emeralds with blush pinks or terrazzo floors with sculptural brassware. Maximalism emphasizes curated expression through purposeful layering of patterns, finishes, statement lighting, and art. Lucy Mather of Arighi Bianchi adds that this trend promotes freedom and personal reflection in home decor. Another emerging trend is "The Reflective Renaissance," characterized by the widespread use of shiny chrome, aluminum, and mirror finishes. Examples include Hiroto Yoshizoe’s ‘ubique’ lights and Nilufar Depot’s ‘Silver Lining’ concept, highlighting luminosity and depth. Lucy Mather believes this trend is gaining momentum in the UK, especially in smaller spaces where reflective materials can bounce light, add depth, and uplift a room without extensive structural changes. Mirrored coffee tables or chrome light fittings can transform spaces with limited natural light. The key is balance, using well-chosen high-gloss elements to make rooms feel bigger and brighter, while also creating tactile contrast when paired with plush fabrics like velvet or boucle, as observed by Matt Thomas from Apollo Blinds. The "Fusion of Fashion" trend sees major fashion houses integrating their brand DNA into home interiors. Gucci reinterpreted its bamboo motif, Prada focused on sustainability with discussions on a vintage train, and Dolce & Gabbana revitalized baroque print furniture with vibrant patterns. Missoni Home’s debut boutique further solidified the connection between fashion and home decor, emphasizing storytelling through spaces and objects. Lucy Mather appreciates how interiors are becoming as expressive as fashion, driven by inspiration from online magazines, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest, leading to increased confidence in color, curated clashes, and layered textures. Finally, "The Human Touch" highlights a return to craft and tradition, focusing on human-centric design and inclusivity. SaloneSatellite’s ‘New Craftsmanship’ theme underscored personal connection and wellbeing. Brands like Cassina and Natuzzi revisited their archives, reinterpreting heritage with fresh energy. New furniture lines with organic curves and immersive sensory installations were designed to evoke emotion and enhance mood and wellbeing. Megan Baker of My Fitted Bedroom notes that this trend reflects a desire for furniture with purpose, precision, and personality, moving away from disposable trends. It emphasizes creating spaces that make life easier, more beautiful, and deeply personal, where comfort and emotional connection are paramount. The overarching theme observed by all experts is the increasing role of technology in home design, with installations at Fuorisalone and LG demonstrating the blend of physical and digital worlds. #MilanDesignWeek #SaloneDelMobile #InteriorDesign #PlayfulMaximalism #ReflectiveRenaissance #FashionFusion #HumanCentricDesign #HomeDecorTrends #ProductDesign

Milan Design Week annually transforms the city's historic streets with a multitude of installations, performances, and interventions, captivating visitors with creative displays in shop windows and hidden courtyards. In recent years, fashion brands have increasingly participated, extending their design expertise to furniture, interiors, and architectural spaces. This integration showcases a growing trend of interdisciplinary collaboration between fashion and design industries. Among the highlights of Milan Design Week 2019, Marni's 'Moon Walk' installation draws inspiration from celestial themes, merging 'primitive fascinations with the imagination of the future.' This project features a collection of brightly colored chairs, loungers, stools, and tables crafted from innovative materials by Colombian artisans, with whom Marni has a long-standing collaboration. The designs reflect an exploration of unexplored forms and textures, bringing a unique artisanal touch to the event. Jil Sander's 'Adjacent Field' installation, a collaboration between creative directors Lucie and Luke Meier and artist Linda Tegg, emphasizes sustainability and spontaneity. The Jil Sander headquarters in Milan houses a botanical display comprising mosses, succulents, weeds, herbs, and flowers, illuminated by a sophisticated lighting design by Nic Burnham. This installation transforms the space into a natural oasis, highlighting the beauty and importance of biophilia in urban environments. COS, an early adopter of Milan Design Week participation since 2012, partnered with architect Arthur Mamou-Mani for 'Conifera.' This futuristic bower, constructed from 3D printed wood and bioplastic conical bricks, occupied the courtyard of the historic Palazzo Isimbardi. The project exemplifies the brand's commitment to innovative design and sustainable practices through the use of advanced manufacturing techniques and eco-friendly materials. Tod's No_Code Shelter, a joint effort between Tod's and architect Andrea Caputo, created a multi-room exhibition within a cavernous space adjacent to the National Museum of Science and Technology. Surrounded by reconstructions of Leonardo da Vinci's inventions, the installation delved into themes of shelter, sustainability, and safety in contemporary society, prompting reflection on modern living challenges and solutions. Miu Miu presented 'M/Matching Colourstool,' a playful collaboration with creative agency M/M Paris. This design features a perforated linden wood stool that allows for customization with over 300 colored 'matchsticks,' offering owners a personalized decorative experience. The stool debuted at Milan's Teatro Gerolamo, underscoring Miu Miu's vibrant aesthetic and engagement with artistic expression. Issey Miyake, on its third appearance at Milan Design Week, collaborated with architect Jólan van der Wiel for 'The Strange Attraction of Water.' The piece, 'Journey of a Raindrop,' integrates water and design to simulate a raindrop's journey through various elements, showcasing an understanding of the natural world and its influence on creative expression. This installation offers an immersive experience, blending natural phenomena with artistic interpretation. Finally, Raf Simons and Kvadrat continued their collaboration with 'No Man's Land,' an installation at Garage 21 that explores the 'microarchitecture of yarn.' The exhibit featured apocalyptically styled soft furnishings, a prefab house by Jean Prouvé, and catering from London's Rochelle Canteen. This project highlights the innovative use of textiles and examines the intersection of fashion, architecture, and interior design in creating conceptual spaces. #MilanDesignWeek #FashionInstallations #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalSpaces #SustainableDesign #ArtisanCraftsmanship #Biophilia #3DPrinting #TextileInnovation #CustomizableFurniture