Milan Design Fair 2025
Every April, Milan transforms into a pulsating hub of design energy, and whilst I couldn’t be there this time, I reveled in its brilliance from a distance. This year’s Salone del Mobile didn’t just showcase furniture and interiors; it told stories, generated conversation, and challenged norms. With over 1,000 exhibitions across 10 districts, the fair was a kaleidoscope of ideas that reflected the evolving relationship between design, humanity, and the planet. It was a treat to attend The Design Anatomy's Milan Review live at the Brickworks Melbourne showroom and hear Bree and Lauren recount their inspiring journey to Italy.
The overarching theme, Connected Worlds, invited designers to explore how design bridges nature, technology, tradition, and future innovation. From immersive installations to AI-generated objects, the fair asked: how can design foster empathy, sustainability, and transformation?
So what were my favourites from the design fair?
Muuto- Danish brand Muuto transformed a Brera apartment into a sensory journey through the seasons.
Each room reflected a different time of year, styled with iconic Muuto pieces like the Looped Lamp and Midst Table. I was particulary drawn to the bright citrus room, the apartments original terrazzo floors were such a statement, the warmth of the three tones and the pattern adds to the layering in the citrus room. Though I find myself questioning the ease of living within an environment defined by bold colour transitions. Would it encourage mindfulness, or contribute to life's worries?
Alcova- a curated showcase of design set within the grounds of an industrial factory, once home to a flower farm. Now in disrepair and reclaimed by nature, the building offers a raw, evocative backdrop for some truly remarkable pieces. Interior Designer, Whitney Krieger launched a number of furniture and decor pieces set within Alcova, I loved the Cono chair, image below.
Simone Haag x Artemest- Simone curated the foyer of Palazzo Donizetti for Artemest’s L’Appartamento presentation, embracing her signature interplay between old and new. Like the other international designers involved, she was given access to Artemest’s catalogue to select her pieces, each designer logging into a shared portal to ensure no item was duplicated throughout the apartment. A beautiful showcase of individuality, how delightful!
Lost Profile Studio- debute Carapace, a poetic lighting series inspired by the protective shell of a turtle. Cast metal shades cradled warm light, evoking themes of resilience and intimacy. The installation was nestled among Milan’s grander spectacles.
What about the mood?
2025 was all about warm, immersive palettes and reflective finishes:
Mocha Mousse (Pantone 2025 colour of the year) & Chocolate Brown, hello 1970's!-
Rich, earthy tones dominated furniture and lighting, creating grounded, sophisticated interiors.
Silvered Surfaces- Chrome and mirrored finishes added futuristic sheen and depth.
Terracotta, Ochre & Olive- Nature inspired hues layered with tactile materials like bouclé and lacquered timber brought warmth and personality.
Vivid Saturated Accents- Designers embraced bold colour as emotional expression, from sculptural lighting to resin furniture.
Heavy yet Whimsy- Expanding on the current global events. Pieces appeared to levitate, creating visual lightness and spatial fluidity.
Milan Design Fair 2025 was so much more than aesthetics, it was grounded in meaning. It invited us to reassess how we live, what we truly value, and how design can serve as a powerful vehicle for healing, storytelling, and connection. The fair was a beautiful reminder that design, at its heart, reflects our humanity. I’m itching to experience it in person one day, just need the stars to align and maybe turn it into a family holiday while I’m at it!
In my next post, I'll explore 3Days of Design, Copenhagen's vibrant design fair spanning eight design districts, united by the bold and timely theme: Keep It Real.
Your Vision Crafted.
Jenni
