Milano Design Week 2025 is fast approaching, and we’re excited to have industry expert Sonia Audoly take us on an inspiring journey through one of the world’s most celebrated design events. Known for her expertise in design, trends, and interior styling, Sonia has previously hosted several of our online interior design trends workshops for interior design students, providing them with invaluable insights into the latest design movements.
While the Salone del Mobile at the Rho Fairgrounds is a key highlight, Sonia will show us that the true magic of Milano Design Week (MDW) lies in the city itself. Milan transforms into a dynamic hub of creativity, with showrooms, galleries, and pop-up exhibitions scattered throughout, offering endless inspiration for interior designers, architects, and design enthusiasts.
Get ready to explore the best spots and must-see experiences that Milano Design Week has to offer with Sonia as your guide!
In short…
By understanding the key elements of Art Deco style, you can create an interior that exudes glamour, sophistication, and timeless appeal. Whether you're updating a single room or designing an entire space, incorporating geometric patterns, opulent materials, and a bold colour scheme will help you capture the essence of this iconic design era.
Sonia’s guide will help you navigate the must-visit spots and ensure you experience the magic of Milan during one of the world’s most inspiring design events.
Image Source: House of Switzerland Milano via Dezeen.
Milano Design Week is not just another trade show; it's a celebration of design that spreads across the entire city of Milan. From the renowned Salone del Mobile at the Rho Fairground to the hidden gems scattered throughout Milan, this week brings together a global community of designers, architects, and creatives. Whether you're attending for the first time or you’re a seasoned visitor, there’s always something new to discover!
But let’s be honest—the magic of MDW isn’t confined to the fairgrounds. While Euroluce, with its lighting exhibitors, and The Salone Satellite, showcasing upcoming designers, are must-see destinations, the true heartbeat of MDW pulses through the streets of Milan itself. The city transforms into a living, breathing design exhibition.
Image Source: Miroco Machiko for El Espartano via Dezeen.
City Centre – Via Durini/Monforte
The Italian design
hub of Milan, this area features the showrooms of iconic brands like B&B Italia,
Cassina, Arclinea, Flos, Foscarini, Luceplan, and many more. It's a paradise for
design lovers looking to experience the best of Italian craftsmanship and
innovation.
Brera – Via Solferino/Palermo
Brera is where design meets
creativity with a twist. It’s home to some of the edgier, avant-garde brands
that often use Milanese apartments and courtyards as their exhibition spaces.
Don’t just walk past those doorways—step inside and discover something
extraordinary!
Zona Tortona – Via Savona/Tortona
For a youthful,
industrial vibe, head to Zona Tortona. Think of it as Milan's answer to New
York’s SoHo—ex-industrial factories turned into showrooms, lofts, and creative
hubs. It’s a hotspot for the cutting-edge and up-and-coming designers, and the
atmosphere is buzzing with excitement.
Image
Source: Brera Design
District.
Milano Design Week is more than just products… it’s about experiences, installations, and stunning locations. Here are a few highlights to add to your itinerary:
Aesop’s Immersive Installation at Chiesa del
Carmine
Aesop, the Australian brand known for its minimalist
beauty and design, will present The Second Skin, an immersive
experience exploring the connection between skin and design. Set within the
atmospheric Chiesa del Carmine, this installation will leave you feeling
inspired and relaxed.
Masterly @ Palazzo dei Giureconsulti
Set in a
historic Milan landmark, Masterly is a curated selection of Dutch design,
fashion, and photography. Expect to see the best of Dutch design and artisan
craftsmanship in a breathtaking space.
Staging Modernity by Formafantasma for Cassina
For an
unforgettable fusion of theatre, design, and philosophy, check out the
Formafantasma installation for Cassina at Teatro Lirico Giorgio Gaber. A unique
theatrical performance exploring modernity’s impact on contemporary ecological
thinking.
Alcova 2025 @ Villa Borsani
For a deeper dive into
Milan’s design history, Alcova is the ultimate experience. It spans four
stunning locations, including Villa Borsani and the Villa Bagatti Valsecchi,
offering site-specific installations that blend nature and architecture in a
truly immersive way.
Bamboo Encounters by Gucci
Experience the elegance
and creativity of Gucci as they celebrate bamboo’s role in design. This
exhibition at Chiostri di San Simpliciano features contemporary designers
reimagining bamboo, set in a historic Milanese location.
Hermès @ La Pelota Jai Alai
No trip to MDW would be
complete without a visit to Hermès. Known for their mesmerizing installations,
this year’s exhibit, designed by Charlotte Macaux Perelman, will showcase the
brand’s latest creations in a luminous, almost otherworldly setting.
Image Source: Set Design by
Charlotte Macaux Perelman for Hermès via Design Boom.
Fashion and interior design often intertwine, and MDW is the perfect example of this creative fusion. From Saint Laurent’s exclusive exhibition of Charlotte Perriand’s furniture designs to Prada Frames offering thought-provoking discussions, there’s something for every creative mind. Don’t miss Hotel Voyeur by Seletti for a fun, interactive experience combining art, design, and technology.
Image Source: Furniture by
Charlotte Perriand for YSL via Dezeen.
For interior designers, architects, and creatives, MDW is a feast of inspiration. It’s a chance to discover new materials, innovative designs, and fresh trends. Whether you’re attending to fuel your creativity or to make valuable industry connections, MDW is a must-visit event in your career. Don’t forget to follow the hashtag #MDW2025 to keep up with all the latest happenings.
I can’t wait to share my full experience when I return! If you’re heading to Milan, get ready for a thrilling week of design, inspiration, and unforgettable memories. If you can’t make it this year, don’t worry—there’s always next time.
With excitement and joy, ciao!
Sonia
Expert Guest writer for The Interior Design Institute
Sonia Audoly is an Italian architect, journalist, and design expert based in Milan, renowned for her work as a stylist, design editor, and storyteller. With a rich background in architecture and interior design, Sonia has hosted several of our online trends workshops for interior design students, sharing her invaluable insights on emerging design trends and the latest industry innovations. Her ability to blend creativity with deep expertise has made her a beloved educator and a trusted voice in the design community.
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