Salone del Mobile 2024: A Design Odyssey

As an interior design studio dedicated to exploring the latest trends and innovations, our recent journey to Milan for the Salone del Mobile 2024 was nothing short of transformative. This year’s event, celebrated for its fusion of tradition and innovation, offered a plethora of inspiring exhibitions. Alongside the major showcases, we also had the pleasure of discovering some remarkable brands that are making waves in the design world. Here’s a recap of our experiences and the exciting new brands we encountered.

Milan Design Week:

Where Innovation Meets Tradition

Salone del Mobile is not merely an exhibition; it’s a global design summit that encapsulates the essence of creativity and craftsmanship. The 2024 edition emphasized “Sustainability and Innovation,” a theme that resonated throughout the event’s diverse pavilions. Designers, architects, and creatives from around the world converged to showcase cutting-edge furniture, innovative materials, and visionary concepts.

Unveiling the Standout Exhibitions

1. Hermes at La Pelota

Presented in a theatrical manner, Hermès pays tribute to materials to reflect ancestral techniques and local craftsmanship. After an initial journey through floor compositions made of raw materials - bricks, earth, slates, wood - one discovers a second installation that honors the house's expertise, creating a dialogue between contemporary creations and objects from its heritage.

2. Flos at Palazzo Visconti

Flos illuminates the historic Palazzo Visconti in an immersive installation showcasing the new designs by Formafantasma, Barber Osgerby, and Michael Anastassiades. Immersed in a baroque-style setting, the modern light fixtures made of blown glass or polished aluminum stand out in an unexpected mirrored space.

3. Formafantasma - La Casa Dentro

Organized by Alberto Salvadori, the new exhibition project by the designers Formafantasma, titled La Casa Dentro, is set up on the first floor of the Fondazione ICA. Formafantasma offers a minimalist interpretation of living spaces, as a perfect antithesis to ornamentation.

4. MANIERA - Junya Ishigami @ Alcova

This collaborative project showcased the potential of sustainable materials through intricate wooden sculptures and furniture. "The Invisible Store of Happiness" celebrated the beauty and versatility of wood, highlighting the importance of sustainable forestry and traditional craftsmanship in modern design.

5. Muller van Severen x BD Barcelona

Presented by Maniera, the new furniture series by architect Junya Ishigami, consisting of chairs, tables, and lighting fixtures, takes possession of the cave in the park of Villa Bagatti Valsecchi.

6. "Monumental Wonders" by Draga & Aurel

At Nilufar Gallery, Draga & Aurel’s "Monumental Wonders" was an extraordinary display of contemporary art and design. Their work, which blends bold colors, unique textures, and experimental materials, pushed the boundaries of conventional design. This installation highlighted their ability to create visually striking and thought-provoking pieces that captivate and inspire.

Discovering Unique Brands

One of the perks of visiting Salone del Mobile is to meet incredible artisans and craftsmans. Here are the favorites we met this year:

Breccia Medicea
A brand that truly stood out was Breccia Medicea, known for their exquisite stone craftsmanship. Their pieces, rich in historical context and modern elegance, showcased the enduring appeal of natural materials. The fusion of traditional techniques with contemporary design makes their work particularly compelling for luxury interiors.

3D Wall Panels Italia
Another exciting discovery was 3D Wall Panels Italia and their product line, Durat. These panels offer innovative solutions for textured wall designs, providing both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits like improved acoustics. Their sustainable approach, using recycled materials, aligns perfectly with our commitment to eco-friendly design practices.

Rubirosa 43
Rubirosa 43 captivated us with their bespoke furniture pieces that blend Italian craftsmanship with modern sensibilities. Their focus on customizable designs allows for a unique personal touch in any interior, making each piece not just a functional item but a work of art.

DLA Studio
DLA Studio showcased their expertise in architectural design and urban planning. Their work emphasizes sustainable development and innovative use of space, which was evident in their engaging presentations at the fair. DLA Studio's projects often blend aesthetic beauty with functional excellence, pushing the boundaries of traditional architectural design.

Ochre
Ochre captivated us with their elegant lighting and furniture pieces that embody understated luxury. Their designs, characterized by clean lines and a refined aesthetic, add a touch of sophistication to any space. Ochre’s commitment to craftsmanship and quality is evident in every piece, making them a standout at the fair .

Credits : Instagram/ @inesbejot

Final thoughts

Salone del Mobile 2024 was a testament to the evolving landscape of design, where sustainability, innovation, and artistry converge. The installations we visited provided a wealth of inspiration, showcasing how design can address contemporary challenges while creating beautiful and functional spaces. As we return to our studio, we are excited to integrate these insights into our projects, continuing to push the boundaries of creativity and excellence in interior design.