“The Bathhouse is a meditation on ritual, nature, and the quiet power of materials,” said Richard Christiansen, Founder of Flamingo Estate. “We imagined a place where wildflowers, water, and light come together to create a sensory experience that reconnects us to the rhythms of the earth.” Surrounding the bathhouse, four custom, one-of-a-kind pollinator baths offered respite and hydration to pollinator species drawn into the installation by the blossoming flowers. Handmade by skilled artisans in Kohler’s historic foundry, the pieces are cast in iron and then flame‑sprayed with raw copper before the edges are finished to reveal two unique expressions of copper.

“For the Flamingo Estate Bathhouse, we wanted to explore the relationship between architecture and ecology, how design can create moments of care not just for people, but for the natural world around us,” said Michael Seum, VP of Global Design at Kohler Co. “The pollinator baths translate this idea into sculptural form, drawing from Brutalist principles on the exterior while softening into organic, nature informed surfaces within. It’s a reflection of our belief that design should hold space for both human ritual and environmental stewardship.”

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Structured as a progressive spatial journey, AXIS explores the intersection of material innovation, structural expression and sensory experience. Visitors move through a series of environments that transition from sculptural table landscapes to architectural applications and immersive rooms where light, sound and reflection shift the perception of surface and space.

Inside the AXIS Installation

Throughout this week, a programme called AXISTALKS, curated by Album, is taking place at the venue. The creative platform founded by the editors of Apartamento together with architect Paul Cournet brings together eight internationally renowned designers, among others Michael Anastassiades, Sabine Marcelis, Jaime Font and Enrica Cavarzan in conversations moderated by Cournet. The talks are aimed to provide a thoughtful platform for dialogue around design, materiality and contemporary practice.

What is AXIS?

AXIS is a table collection designed in collaboration with Cosentino and Tom Dixon. This collection has been unveiled for the first time in Milan. These pieces combine bold cross–leg geometries, precise engineering and the integration of advanced ĒCLOS® surfaces.

The structural development has been carried out in collaboration with ACTIU, which has translated Tom Dixon’s sculptural vision into an aluminium base of outstanding technical precision. Its design supports multiple configurations and guarantees stability, visual continuity and an impeccable industrial finish that reinforces the architectural character of the series.

New launch: ĒCLOS, the new in-layered mineral surface

The installation also introduces ĒCLOS, Cosentino’s new in-layered mineral surface developed with INLAYR technology—a layered design technology that, through advanced robotic engineering and integrated decoration techniques, creates a 3-D body integrated design. Unlike superficial designs, ĒCLOS achieves a level of depth, realism and tactile naturality that redefines the expressive possibilities of mineral surfaces. Its pioneering composition contains zero crystalline silica and incorporates more than 50% recycled materials, reaching almost 90% in some colours, while offering outstanding thermal performance with resistance up to 220 ºC. The result is a high-performance indoor surface that combines material innovation, sustainability and a distinctly architectural aesthetic.

Dekton series – Artik Nodes

Complementing this, the installation features Dekton Artik Nodes, part of Cosentino’s ultracompact Dekton surface series —an advanced material created through a high-tech sintering process that replicates the transformation of natural stone. Inspired by the shifting geometry of Arctic ice, Artik Nodes reinterprets its stonelike base into a distinctive structural language of irregular patterns that converge in subtle nodes. The result is a singular sense of visual depth: tones and textures that seem to emerge from within, creating a layered, 3-D effect where. Presented in Milano as a premiere of its first colours, Artik Nodes offers an initial glimpse into the expressive potential of the series.

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Rooms flow one into another through permeable boundaries and shimmering metal-mesh curtains, dissolving traditional divisions to create intrigue instead of enclosure. Organic volumes, layered textures, and sculptural lighting create a sensorial narrative shaped by shadow and reflection. A palette of chocolate, coffee brown, pastel green and flashes of acid yellow ties together living, dining, bedroom, bath, installation, and outdoor settings. Each unveiling a curated selection of Spain’s most compelling furniture, ceramics, textiles and lighting. Below is a teaser:

Designed as a temporary home to wander through, Appartamento Spagnolo blurs past and present, intimacy and spectacle. A well-loved destination during Milan Design Week, here’s a snapshot of last year, curated by Calvi Brambilla Studio:

At the epicenter of the international design scene, the curation offers more than an exhibition: it is an invitation to experience contemporary Spanish living as a curated, emotional journey at the heart of Milan’s most influential design week.

Here is where you can catch the exhibit:

Palazzo Castiglioni, entrance from Corso Venezia 51.

Monday 20/04, 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Tuesday 21/04, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Wednesday 22/04, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Thursday 23/04, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Friday 24/04, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Saturday 25/04, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Sunday 26/04, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

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Pasticceria Marchesi 1824

Founded in 1824, Pasticceria Marchesi 1824 is one of Milan’s oldest pastry houses, now part of the Prada Group. Located in iconic spots such as Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and Via Montenapoleone, it is known for its refined pastries, classic Italian coffee, and elegant historic-meets-modern interiors.

Image courtesy of: marchesi1824

Gelateria della Musica

A well-known artisanal gelato brand recognised for its experimental flavours and high-quality ingredients. With several locations across the city, including the Navigli area, it is a popular stop for those seeking creative takes on traditional Italian gelato.

Image courtesy of: lagelateriadellamusica

Gelato Giusto

Located in the Porta Venezia area, Gelato Giusto is an artisanal gelateria focused on seasonal ingredients and natural production methods. It is widely appreciated for its purity of flavour, minimal processing, and constantly changing selection based on ingredient availability.

Image courtesy of: gelatogiusto

Pavé – La Dolce Ba

A popular Milanese bakery and café near Porta Venezia/Porta Romana, known for its relaxed atmosphere and high-quality baked goods. It offers a mix of Italian classics and modern pastries, making it a favourite spot for coffee breaks during busy city days.

Image courtesy of: pavemilano

A well-established Italian gelato chain founded in Turin in 2003, with multiple locations across Milan. It is known for using natural ingredients without artificial flavourings or colourings, offering a consistent and accessible take on traditional Italian gelato.

Image courtesy of: gromgelato

Between long days of installations and immersive encounters, these places will offer moments of calm within the city’s rhythm. Each pause will become part of the experience itself, where time slows and the essence of the city can be quietly enjoyed.

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Triennale Milano

Triennale Milano will offer a compelling programme of exhibitions and installations that explore contemporary design through both historical and forward-looking lenses.

From a retrospective on Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby to exhibitions featuring Toyo Ito, the line-up brings together key figures shaping the design conversation. Immersive installations, including a full-scale homage to Charles Eames and Ray Eames, further enrich the experience.

A blend of research, experimentation, and cultural reflection makes it a must-visit on this year’s design circuit.

Fondazione Prada

For art lovers, Fondazione Prada will stand as one of Milan’s key cultural stops, set within a former distillery reimagined by Rem Koolhaas.

It will present immersive exhibitions and experimental installations across its vast architectural spaces, offering a striking dialogue between industrial heritage and contemporary design thinking. Visitors will also encounter the surreal Haunted House, alongside the atmospheric Bar Luce, creating a layered experience that blends art, architecture, and cinematic ambience.

Pirelli HangarBicocca

Set beyond Milan’s historic centre, Pirelli HangarBicocca will be one of the city’s most powerful destinations for large-scale artistic experiences, housed within a vast former industrial site.

It will unfold as a dramatic landscape of immersive installations and experimental works, where monumental scale and spatial freedom allow artists to reshape perception and challenge conventional exhibition formats.

ADI Design Museum

The ADI Design Museum will present a dynamic programme of exhibitions, installations, and talks focused on the evolving culture of design.

Key highlights will include the XXIX Compasso d’Oro exhibition, experimental works by Haruka Misawa, and Mario Botta’s ICOSAEDRO, bringing together heritage, innovation, and forward-thinking design perspectives.

MUDEC – Museo delle Culture

The MUDEC – Museo delle Culture will stand as a striking example of Milan’s industrial heritage reimagined as a cultural space, set within a former factory transformed into a contemporary museum.

It will host exhibitions that explore global cultures and diverse creative practices, offering a broad perspective on art, identity, and contemporary expression in an architecturally distinctive setting.

Nilufar Gallery

Nilufar Gallery will offer a refined, collector-like experience shaped by Nina Yashar’s sharp curatorial eye. It will bring together rare vintage finds and contemporary design pieces in unexpected combinations, creating a space where eras, styles, and ideas will sit in constant conversation revealing Milan’s quieter, more intimate side of design culture.

Dimore Gallery

Dimore Gallery will offer a distinctive view of Milan’s design landscape, presenting a residential-style setting where past and present will blend seamlessly. Founded by Emiliano Salci and Britt Moran, it will bring together collectible mid-century pieces and contemporary design works, arranged as immersive interiors that feel both lived-in and carefully curated.

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Downtown Design 2025 celebrated the best of contemporary design from around the world. The fair offered a dynamic mix of established brands and first-time exhibitors, each bringing their signature vision to the floor. Huda Lighting, Kartell, Kohler, Poltrona Frau, Obegi Home, and Venini wowed visitors with their latest collections, while Roche Bobois, Stellar Works, Calico Wallpaper, Porada, Desalto, Stéphanie Coutas, and the designer-duo Draga & Aurel made a striking first impression.

Beyond the global names, regional creativity shone brightly BEIT Collective’s handcrafted Lebanese objects, Pakistani designer Yousaf Shabaz’s debut Strata, Saudi Arabia’s Designed in Saudi showcase, Sharjah-based 1971 Design Space’s material innovation projects, the newest cohort of Tashkeel’s Tanween Design Programme, and Abu Dhabi’s Athath Fellowship all contributed to a rich tapestry of design that blended heritage, innovation, and storytelling.

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Getting there

Milan Design Week tends to get busy during the weekends, but it’s worth arriving a little earlier to attend the previews and unique activations before the city sets into full celebration mode.

Transportation

As it is a very busy time in the city, we highly recommend using public transport. Ride sharing apps and cabs often cancel, so it’s best to avoid these.

Where to stay

Mandarin Oriental Milan

www.mandarinoriental.com

Located close to Teatro La Scala, the Mandarin Oriental Milan designed by Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel Interiors blends contemporary Italian elegance with timeless oriental luxury and impeccable service. Nestled within four restored 18th-century buildings, this intimate and contemporary hotel exudes a refined residential charm. Its 104 stylish rooms and suites offer some of the most spacious accommodations in the city. Located on Via Andegari, just steps from the fashionable Via Manzoni and Montenapoleone, the hotel provides seamless access to Milan’s premier fashion, commercial, and cultural hubs, with it being less than a 20-minute walk to the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Sforza Castle.

Bulgari Hotel Milano

www.bulgarihotels.com

Nestled on Via Privata Fratelli Gabba, Bulgari Hotel Milano seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary elegance. Housed in a meticulously renovated 18th-century Milanese palazzo, the interiors exude refined sophistication, brought to life through a rich palette of materials—Zimbabwean black marble, Vicenza and Afyon stone, teak, and oak. These elements create a striking interplay of textures and tones, enhanced by bespoke furnishings and detailing by ACPV ARCHITECTS Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel. The hotel’s more recent refresh introduces cream-coloured linen wallpaper, sleek furniture from Antonio Citterio’s Flexform Collection, Maxalto, and B&B Italia, and meticulously curated touches that celebrate Bulgari’s legacy. Framed sketches of the brand’s iconic jewellery adorn each room, while the suites feature a carefully selected collection of art and design books, reinforcing the hotel’s timeless yet contemporary aesthetic.

Armani Hotel

www.armanihotels.com

Located at the fashionable Via Manzoni, the Armani Hotel in Milan, the entire hotel is classically Armani. Neutral tones take centre stage with interiors furnished by Armani/Casa throughout, with understated elegance taking centre fold. Despite being in a bustling area, there is a sense of tranquillity that occurs when you enter the space.

Portrait Milano

www.lungarnocollection.com/portrait-milano-hotel/

Owned by the Ferragamo family,Porttrait Milano was formerly an Archiepiscopal Seminary at 11, Corso Venezia. Built in 1564 in a strategic central location, it is Europe’s oldest seminary. Featuring a baroque entrance designed by Francesco Maria Richini in 1652, a double colonnaded loggia frames the piazza that follows. To develop it into a hotel, the Ferragamo family entrusted the entire renovation project for the hotel’s interior to Florentine architect Michele Bönan. Contemporary meets history at this remarkable hotel.

Casa Baglioni

milan.baglionihotels.com

Located in the artistic Brera district which is central to all the action during Milan Design Week, Casa Baglioni has lots of character. Inspired by 1960s Milan, the rooms feature a sense of Italian savoir faire and modern design. The decor includes lighting by Panzeri, Rubelli wallpaper, Dedas fabrics, and taps by Zuchetti.

The insider’s take

We asked three regular fair attenders on what to experience during Milan Design Week:

Mette Degn-Christensen, Director of Downtown Design

“If I could choose one thing, it would be Alcova!” Degn-Christensen shares. A must-visit for contemporary design lovers, this year, Alcova will expand its footprint with two new sites: the former SNIA Factory and the Pasino Glasshouses. These additions introduce raw, textured environments where nature is slowly reclaiming its space, creating a layered dialogue between past and present. Degn-Christensen also looks forward to seeing Hermes at La Pelota.

Esra Lemmens, Founder of Esra Lemmens Agency

Lemmens recommends visiting ‘Masterly’, held at the Palazzo dei Giureconsulti. This pavilion  offers some of the best design and artisan craftsmanship that the Netherlands has to offer. Lemmens also suggests Triennale.”Triennale is always something I always make time for. It is a bit more for the intellectuals, which I prefer over the great trendy fashion houses,” she shares. Nilufar Gallery is also on her must-visit list every year.

Sharmine Khan, Senior Partnerships Manager at identity

When it comes to visiting Milan for the first time, visiting the Duomo is a must-do. “It would be hard to miss the iconic Duomo while visiting Milan.” shares Sharmine Khan, Senior Partnerships Manager at identity. “It is the heart of Milan with plenty of bustling shops and restaurants.” Other popular activities to sightsee include seeing ‘The Last Supper’ at the refectory of the Dominican convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Walking around a lot both within the fair and outside may call for some rest and relaxation. The QC Terme spa housed in a former tram depot hosts an underground lair where you can enjoy your spa experience amongst ruins. Of course, no Milan design trip is complete without a visit to the ADI Design museum.

Khan recommends Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for an unbeatable atmosphere for shopping. Built by architect Giuseppe Mengoni between 1865 and 1877, its beautiful glass dome that lets light in is breathtaking. “It’s both art and luxury under one roof.” she shares. She also recommends taking a leisurely walk by the canals in the Navigili district in the late afternoon with a gelato, giving you a scoop of ‘La Dolce Vita’.

Salone del Mobile.Milano

Atlas Concorde 

At the fair, Atlas Concorde will present its  Marvel Diva collection. Continuous innovation, technological research, Italian style, international vocation and social and environmental responsibility define the company’s codes. 

Visit the brand at Hall 03 Stand C21 – C19 

LEMA

Lema, a historic brand led by the Meroni family for generations, is entering a new phase of its journey. The arrival of the fourth generation, combined with a fresh industrial plan and A++’s artistic direction, marks a significant step in shaping the brand’s identity. Lema will unveil its 2025 innovations at Salone del Mobile. This will be an opportunity to expand and enhance its range of modular systems. The spotlight will be on L25, a freestanding system designed to seamlessly furnish both day and night areas, alongside a series of new products tailored to different design needs.

Visit the brand at Hall 11, Stand B15 C20

Bonaldo 

This quintessential Italian brand is animated by the ethos of bringing ideas to life and crafting objects that epitomise the essence of modern living. At its heart, Bonaldo specialises in manufacturing tables, chairs, sofas, beds, accessories and lighting that pulsate with vibrant and distinctive design. Launches will include the Taijitu table by Spazioameno, Youpi stool designed by Fabrice Berrux, and a Boolean armchair by Giuseppe Vigano. 

Visit the brand at Hall 9 – G09/H08. 

Minotti  

The 2025 collection will involve releases of new pieces from Marcio Kogan / Studio MK27, Giampiero Tagliaferri, Hannes Peer, Nendo, and GamFratesi. 

Visit the brand at Hall 11 – Stand  E15  G12  G16  E27  G22 

Talenti Home 

Going against the market trend, top high-end outdoor furniture brand Talenti comes to Milan to preview Alma, its first indoor collection where attention to detail is confirmed as an intrinsic feature in the brand’s DNA. Signed by Ludovica Serafini and Roberto Palomba, the Alma sofa blends modernity and tradition, creating a cosy and delicate piece of furniture. As the name (which is Spanish for ‘soul’) recalls, this proposal aims to create an ideal parallel between the interior of a home and that of a person, a sort of introspective journey between emotions and sensations amplified by the magnifying glass called design. “Alma stands out for its sinuous and harmonious sculptural forms with rounded corners that accentuate its soft and welcoming appearance. Its presence is immediately recognisable, with a design that expresses a strong character. Its nature and design are decidedly bolder and more provocative than more traditional solutions, while recalling some forms and trends of the past, but in a way that does not compromise its uniqueness. Alma does not simply furnish the space, but transforms it, defining its own bold and unmistakable identity, capable of dialoguing with the contemporary context in a powerful and innovative way,” say the designers. 

Visit the brand at the fair at Pad 22 – Stand A31-A35. 

Oikos Venezia 

Oikos Venezia will present itself at the fair with ‘Entrance Architecture’, which speaks the language of furniture by launching a preview of a proposal for furniture items that characterise the entrance space. This preview aims to explore and gather feedback on possible future scenarios.  

Visit the brand at Hall 05, Stand A05. 

Sans Souci

At Euroluce2025, Czech design company Sans Souci will invite visitors on a journey ‘Beyond Perception’, exploring the interplay between light, perception, and reality to reveal how design shapes the way we see the world. At the heart of the installation lies the essence of creation, exploration, and imagination, embodied by three iconic historical figures – Vincent van Gogh, Galileo Galilei, and Bedřich Smetana – each representing a unique way of transforming the world through vision and innovation.

Visit the brand at Hall 4, Booth D06, Euroluce 2025

Porro 

Deep roots and a contemporary vision come together in the 2025 collection, with Porro building a bridge to the future. This includes the introduction of new sofas by Piero Lissoni and Francesco Rota that bring a whole new language of comfort and softness; Porro’s living spaces that enhance the brand’s upholstered furniture offering for both residential and contract use; and sculptural furnishings by Piero Lissoni and Dordoni Architetti that represent ‘missing pieces’ within the brand’s collections. Additionally, the continuous evolution of the company’s architectural systems, in synergy with the Glide sliding, fixed and pivot partitions, enables Porro to go beyond the limits of traditional furniture, embracing the concept of a fluid home. 

Visit the brand at the fair at Hall 11 – D15, D18 

Fuorisalone: Porro Showroom, Via Uberto Visconti di Modrone, 29. 

Fast 

Fast is an Italian brand specialising in the creation of outdoor furniture made from aluminium. The company is based in Valle Sabbia, near Lake Garda, and has a strong connection to the local area and its natural surroundings, drawing inspiration from it to create furniture that conveys the joy of living outdoors. The brand’s identity is shaped by its dedication to the essence of the territory, where the breathtaking scenery serves as a continuous source of inspiration. This year, Fast celebrates thirty years of operation and is guided by its creative directors, architects and designers Francesco Meda and David Lopez Quincoces. On the occasion of the Milan Design Week 2025, the brand is presenting several range extensions, including the introduction of low tables in various sizes within the Naca collection, and the expansion of sunbed offerings in the Solaris collection. Among the highlights is the new modular sofa system with a reclining backrest, designed to make every outdoor space unique. 

Visit the brand at Hall 24, D10 or in the
city at Via Cesare Battisti 1 – Milano Durini Design District 

Fuorisalone 

Casa Cork 

Rockwell Group, the renowned NYC-based architecture and interior design studio, will unveil ‘Casa Cork’ – an immersive installation showcasing the vast potential of cork as a sustainable material at Milan Design Week 2025. An immersive installation, events programme and student competition will be curated by Rockwell Group and the Cork Collective in collaboration with Corticeira Amorim. As visitors explore cork and its extensive potential, they will be immersed in interiors, furnishings, lighting and student prototypes crafted almost entirely from this remarkable material. The dramatic centrepiece of ‘Casa Cork’ is a lifelike replica of a monumental cork tree made from reclaimed virgin cork bark, which seamlessly connects a multitude of cork products to this wonder of the natural world. An unfolding journey brings the world of cork to life in a sensory touch gallery; a tactile workshop narrates cork’s origin story and showcases the possibilities for innovation; and a salon, a welcoming bar and event space, offers visitors tastings, meals and discussions about design and a zero-waste future. Address: 31 Via Solferino. 

Moooi 

Bredaquaranta, a leading player in the retail sector of furniture and interior design, has signed a new partnership with Moooi, the legendary Dutch brand founded in 2001 by Marcel Wanders and Casper Vissers. The renowned Northern European company has chosen Bredaquaranta, led by Davide D’avico, following numerous successful collaborations with international design giants. Moooi is known for its always original, unexpected, eclectic, rebellious and sophisticated collections that push the boundaries of commercial reality and cultural interest, offering a curated mix that defines the personality of spaces.  

The new Moooi flagship store will open its first Milanese location at Via Turati 2. 

Karl Lagerfeld Maison 

Karl Lagerfeld Maison will unveil the next chapter of the Wellen collection, expanding its collaboration with guest designer Toan Nguyen. The exclusive presentation will take place at the Karl Lagerfeld Maison showroom, in the vibrant heart of Milan’s design scene. Following its debut during Milan Design Week 2024, the collection is enriched with twelve new pieces named K-Wellen, inspired by the iconic shape of the letter ‘K’. This new line embodies the minimalist elegance that defines Karl Lagerfeld’s DNA, reinterpreted through sophisticated and contemporary design. The distinctive ‘K’ silhouette defines a variety of furnishings, including sideboards, consoles, mirrors, tables, shelves and upholstered pieces, creating a harmonious dialogue between essential geometries and premium materials. The standout feature? Metallic finishes that add bold character and a strong aesthetic identity, perfectly aligned with the famous couturier’s futuristic vision. This collection represents a further exploration of Karl Lagerfeld’s passion for architecture and avantgarde design, merging contemporary creativity with outstanding artisanal quality.

Address: Via Passione 8. 

Paola Lenti 

Ritrovarsi is Paola Lenti’s project for the 2025 edition of Milano Design Week. It is an opportunity for new experiences and discoveries that the company offers to visitors at Paola Lenti Milano, inviting them to reconnect with space and time through a carefully designed chromatic path. The indoor and outdoor collections unfold within a coherent and layered project, where the relationship between architecture and nature allows thoughts to flow in harmony with the surrounding beauty, evoking a sense of balance and wonder. 

Address: via Giovanni Bovio, 28 

Buccellati  

Buccellati will present ‘Naturalia’, an immersive exhibition curated by Balich Wonder Studio that celebrates the timeless beauty of nature and craftsmanship. The exhibit features site-specific settings and soundscapes, inviting visitors to explore Buccellati Silver Nature, an experience enriched by botanical art installations from Studio Mary Lennox. ‘Naturalia’ highlights one of the Maison’s most renowned silver collections, Furry Animals, which masterfully recreates the textures of fur and feathers, as well as ancient engraving techniques such as modellato and ornato. 

Address: Via Brisa 5 

Antolini 

The marble brand invites visitors to discover natural stone in an unprecedented form that pays tribute to the grandeur of nature and human genius, showcasing its collaborations with Murran Billi and Bang & Olufsen. 

Address: Antolini Duomo of Milan, Piazza Fontana corner of Via San Clemente. 

Zucchetti 

Historic Italian tap brand Zucchetti opens the doors of its new showroom in the beating heart of the city, and unveils its new products for the bathroom: a collection of taps designed by the renowned studio Yabu Pushelberg, a refined series of shower heads designed by Francesco and Alberto Meda, and an innovative shower system developed by Matteo Fiorini with Studio Lys, responsible for the brand’s creative direction. Address: Corso Venezia, 29. 

Cassina 

Marking the 60th anniversary of Cassina’s production of the Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret and Charlotte Perriand Collection, and realised in collaboration with the Le Corbusier Foundation and the heirs of Jeanneret and Perriand, ‘Staging Modernity’ will debut as a theatrical performance and installation at Milan Design Week. Curated by Formafantasma and directed by Fabio Cherstich, this immersive experience will pay tribute to Cassina’s pioneering craftsmanship and its enduring influence on contemporary design. Through a thought-provoking intervention, Formafantasma challenges the contradictions between Modernist ideals and today’s shifting realities, reinterpreting the legacy of industrial rationalism through a lens of ecological consciousness. Throughout the week, a dynamic theatrical performance directed by Cherstich will unfold, weaving together commissioned texts by philosopher Emanuele Coccia, architect and curator Andrés Jaque, and architect-artist Feifei Zhou (terriStories). Address: Teatro Lirico Giorgio Gaber, Via Larga, 14 

Roche Bobois 

Roche Bobois will present the Cromática collection, an exceptional collaboration with award-winning Spanish film director Pedro Almodóvar and actress Rossy de Palma. 

Address: Durini Design District, Via Felice Cavallotti, 14 

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I very much look forward to the UAE debut of The Conran Shop, as well as the long list of prominent brands joining us this year, including B&B Italia, Poltrona Frau, Preciosa, Saint-Louis, Venini and Audo Copenhagen. I’m also eager to see the showcases of less widely known names like Atelier Vierkant, Jacopo Foggini, Serafini and Haberdashery, as well as the launch of JNF’s innovative range by Ross Lovegrove. One of the very exciting aspects is always the UAE Designer Exhibition – this year in its fifth iteration – which has grown as a platform over the years, and I can’t wait to explore what our participating designers have created, in person. There will also be a lot to discover among our group exhibitions like Tanween by Tashkeel, who are with us every year to unveil the designs of their cohort, as well as Designed in Saudi and the Dutch Collective who are both back for a second showcase this year. It’s shaping up to be an inspiring and dynamic edition and a special moment where creativity comes together! 

What’s the central theme for Downtown Design this year?

Connectivity is at the heart of everything we do; rather than promoting one specific theme, Downtown Design consistently produces a dynamic environment where design meets opportunity and forges foundational conversations, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global hub for creativity and design. Our focus lies on fostering collaboration, discovery and creative exchange to ensure that Downtown Design continues to act as a vital hub for the region’s emerging talent as well as established designers.

What can one look forward to in the talks programme?

This year, The Forum will again bring together some of the most influential voices in the industry for thought-provoking discussions. Designed by Lebanese talent Thomas Trad, the space itself will be an embodiment of minimalist, Japanese-inspired aesthetics, creating a refined and engaging atmosphere.

Iconic designer and architect India Mahdavi will kick off the talks with an opening keynote. Eames Demetrios will share his insights on preservation and design identity, while Lina Ghotmeh will uncover the importance of craft and community in architectural heritage. Also joining the programme are leading voices, such as: Magnus Ström, who will speak about bringing a modern, cutting-edge flair to the UAE; Nika Zupanc, whose rebellious elegance in design continues to captivate; and Peter Eland, the founder of Norm Architects. The Forum offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the industry’s brightest minds, making it an essential stop for anyone eager to stay ahead of the curve in the world of design.

Tell us about some of the exciting first-time entrants this year.

We are welcoming a number of incredible first-time participants, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative projects to Downtown Design. 

Another first-time highlight is de Gournay, globally renowned for hand-painted wallpapers, who will be producing an exquisite lounge for the fair. Rooted in centuries-old chinoiserie traditions, de Gournay’s creations often feature lavish, vibrantly coloured garden scenes that are at once timeless and contemporary. At the fair, visitors can step into the de Gournay lounge, offering a visual feast that marries artistry with interior design.

Tell us more about your curation  process with Pablo del Val for Editions. What can visitors expect at this debut and how is it being made accessible?

We are very excited about Editions, which will have its inauguration in November alongside Downtown Design and will be the Middle East’s first fair dedicated to limited-edition art and design. Visitors can explore a mix of contemporary design, photography, prints, ceramics and works on paper, all curated from galleries, design studios and collectives from around the world. What’s great about it is its variety; it’s designed to provide a showcase of discovery, both to seasoned collectors and those who are just curious, offering the chance to discover a diverse selection of high-quality pieces and talent that is not yet widely exposed. We have focused on selecting works that are pushing the boundaries of design and craftsmanship; for the art side of Editions, Pablo has worked with the galleries to ensure an entirely different selection of works to what one might expect when going to Art Dubai. I already have my eye on some personal favourites, such as Elsa Foulon’s stunning ceramic light sculptures and a striking armchair by Nian Architects, made from polished iron and lacquered wood, paired with a vibrant fabric seat from Pierre Frey. I’m also looking forward to seeing the serigraph works by DotPigeon, which bring a bold, modern touch; and Nat Bowen’s resin works are on my shopping list! Editions will offer all visitors access to diverse works in a wide range of price points, inviting a broader audience into the world of collecting, and offering a new take on art and design that hasn’t been widely showcased in this region before.

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This year’s theme, ‘Fail Forward,’ focuses on embracing failure during the design process and leveraging setbacks to push the boundaries of design. The conference aims to shift the narrative surrounding failure and instead recognise its significance as an invaluable experience for creative professionals.

The program is set to feature a series of panel discussions, masterclasses, and workshops with key industry professionals and talents who will encourage the design community to celebrate the knowledge gained from the challenges and mistakes encountered throughout creative journeys.

Tanween Projection on Ithra building (2024), Courtesy of Ithra Studios_2

Iwan Pavilion, winning project of the Tanween 2023 Pavilion Challenge, Courtesy of Ithra Studio

Ross Lovegrove, a renowned British artist, will speak at this year’s panel discussion. Lovegrove is known around the world for his work in industrial design and elevating everyday products with innovative designs; his work can be seen at the MoMA in New York and the Pompidou Centre in Paris. Joining Lovegrove will be the founder of 3N JEDDAH Studio, and Master of Ceremony for the 2024 edition of Tanween is Nawaf Nahar Al-Nassar; IDEO & Co-Founder, Michelle Jafery; CEO of Post Industrial Crafts, Guillaume Credoz; the Creative Director and member of the Architecture Program Advisory Board at the American University in Dubai, Ila Colombo; and many more.

Tanween 2024 will also be hosting a series of masterclasses, including “A Day with an Expert,” designed to bring together groups with shared passions the opportunity to spend the day with a leading expert in their field. This year’s group specialists include New York-based artist Sebastian Errazuriz, known for his innovative designs and public installations; the Art Director and Curator at Dubai Design Week, Rana Salam; and Forbes-awarded creative entrepreneur, Farah Al Humaidhi.

This year’s specialists will offer a distinct perspective on their creative journeys and engage the participants in informative conversations through interactive experiences, advising sessions, site visits, and group projects.

Routes to Roots, exhibition co-curated by Ithra and Isola inaugurated at Tanween 2023, Courtesy of Ithra Studio

Tanween 2023 conference, Ithra, Courtesy of Ithra Studio

Tanween’s workshop are set to be interactive experiences designed to inspire creativity and enhance skills, facilities by industry leaders which include Maggie Jonk, co-founder of Dubai design studio OE-O; Hernan Hoentsch, French/Bolivian product designer and project lead at Saudi creative incubator AlMashtal; Jeske Spee, Head of Brand Materials for the African fashion sector at Vlisco Netherlands; Wael Morcos, graphic designer and partner at New York-based studio Morcos Key, as well as others.

Editions 2024 will showcase innovative design items and products from Ithra’s Creative Solutions Residency Program and Tanween Challenges. The new exhibition, Behind the Curtains: Scenes of Craft, was curated in collaboration with the Italian design platform Isola Studio. It explores the creative journeys of ten internationally acclaimed design studios that specialise in crafts, circular design, and material research. These studios will be bringing projects that resonate with this year’s theme of embracing failure. The exhibition will be an interactive workshop where guests can engage directly with designers and their work. Through hands-on activities like sketching, moulding, and material experimentation, visitors gain insight into the creative process and find inspiration for their own artistic exploration.

Continuing to build on the success of its past editions, Tanween will be showcasing the winning installation from last year’s Tanween Pavilion Challenge, Iwan, at Dubai Design Week (5-10 November), as well as an exhibition of immersive narrative experiences created during their Creative Solutions residency.

“Tanween is a catalyst for design innovation in the Kingdom and beyond, engaging the wider design community – from experts, practitioners, students, and passionate visitors – to expand their creative horizons and advance design practices for the enrichment of our society as a whole. Ithra is proud to act as the nexus and meeting point for innovators from all over the world during the Tanween creativity conference to facilitate not only a fruitful exchange of ideas but also the development of constructive, impactful design solutions.” said Shahad Alwazani, Program Lead for Tanween.

“Each year, Tanween draws in more international collaborations and ever more ambitious
opportunities for designers from the region to nurture talent and drive innovation and new ways of thinking in the design industry. Through the diverse perspectives that converge at Tanween, the conference and design showcases promote open and fruitful dialogues between creatives from all levels of experience and backgrounds which we at Ithra believe to be the key to progress, in the design sector and beyond.” says Nourah Alzamil, Head of Programs, Ithra.

Read more about Tanween here.

Read more features here.

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1. Innovative New Collections

Clerkenwell Design Week 2024 promises a feast of fresh designs and innovative collections. Highlights include:

Utzon stool from Fritz Hansen

• Fritz Hansen unveiling its new collection at the Cowcross Street showroom with the “Inviting Workspaces” exhibit, featuring furniture and accessories from designers like Jaime Hayon and Jørn Utzon.
• Domus on Great Sutton Street, presenting vibrant tile designs by Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby, celebrating a decade of collaboration with Mutina.
• SCP launching the Peonia armchair by Wilkinson and Rivera at St James’s Church, emphasizing sustainable, 100% natural materials.

2. Spotlight on Emerging Creatives

Clerkenwell Design Week’s tradition of championing new talent continues at Platform (70 Cowcross Street) with:

Image courtesy Isabel Francoy

• Selfish Customs showcasing homeware crafted from farming by-products.
• Manuela Cabrales introducing shawls, trousers, and handcrafted lamps made from materials like lotus fibre and orange peels.
• Isabel Francoy blending wicker weaving and glassblowing in her La Sobremesa collection.

3. Trend: The New Stone Age

Natural stone takes center stage, reflecting its resurgence in design:

‘Brick from a Stone’ installation on Clerkenwell Green by Albion Stone and Hutton Stone

• Spectra Stone at Old Sessions House, displaying an exclusive marble collection.
• ‘Brick from a Stone’ installation on Clerkenwell Green by Albion Stone and Hutton Stone, highlighting sustainable stone brick production.
• ‘Stone Tapestry: Beyond the Surface’ by Stone Federation and Squire and Partners, exploring the versatility and beauty of natural stone.

4. Trend: For the Love of Wood

Wood remains a key material at Clerkenwell Design Week 2024, especially in the British Collection:

Image courtesy Matthew Burt

• Benchmark presenting a new storage system developed with Foster + Partners.
• Matthew Burt showcasing timeless designs in a made-to-order service.
• Collinson and James UK introducing new furniture pieces celebrating classic craftsmanship and modern joinery.

5. Engaging Workshops and Events

Don’t miss the insightful discussions and hands-on experiences:

• Neurodiversity and Design: On May 22 at 14:00 in Spa Fields, a panel from Gensler, Squire and Partners, Pantone, and Seedlip’s founder will explore how multisensory design can enhance environments.
• LeftBrain’s Pop-Up Showroom: Featuring talks and AI-crafted cocktails at Second Home, with events themed around the future of digital workspaces.
• Live Installation by Archie Proudfoot: At Cult Vision on Goswell Road, witness a unique visual experience combining gold leaf and reflections.

The post Clerkenwell Design Week 2024 – 5 things you shouldn’t miss appeared first on identity.