Milan Design Week 2025: Top Highlights from Salone del Mobile & Fuorisalone
PHOTO: COURTESY OF FOSCARINI
Milan Design Week is the world’s largest gathering of furniture and design innovation. From April 8–13, 2025, thousands of designers, brands, and visitors converged on two main hubs—the Salone del Mobile fair at Fiera Milano Rho and citywide Fuorisalone events—to explore the latest trends in home décor, materials, and interactive art. Here are the key takeaways and what they mean for your own design projects or décor choices.
1. A Grand Showcase at Salone del Mobile
What it is: The Salone del Mobile is the centerpiece trade fair where established and emerging brands unveil new collections in furniture, lighting, and home accessories.
2025 highlight: Over 2,100 exhibitors from 37 countries filled 169,000 m² with pieces that blend artistry and practicality, drawing more than 370,000 visitors .
Takeaway: Look for multifunctional designs—think sculptural shelving that also serves as room dividers—to maximize style and utility in your own space.
2. Sustainability in the Spotlight
What it is: A growing focus on eco-friendly materials and processes across the design industry.
2025 highlight: Designers showcased recycled cork, bio-based polymers (plastics made from plants), and “carbon-sequestering” stone that locks away CO₂ .
Takeaway: Incorporate sustainable accents—like cork planters or recycled-material rugs—to reduce environmental impact without sacrificing style.
3. Must-See Installations
What it is: Large-scale artworks and experiential spaces that push the boundaries of design.
“La dolce expectation” by Paolo Sorrentino reimagines waiting areas with poetic lighting and seating.
“Mother” by Robert Wilson uses translucent materials to evoke themes of birth and renewal.
“Villa Héritage” by Pierre-Yves Rochon blends classical motifs with high-tech composites .
Takeaway: Use dramatic focal pieces—like a statement light fixture or sculptural chair—to create impact in an entryway or living room.
4. Fuorisalone’s “Mondi Connessi” Theme
What it is: Neighborhood-wide pop-up events that run alongside the main fair, often in galleries and showrooms.
2025 highlight: Over 100 venues across Brera, Tortona, and beyond featured “Connected Worlds” installations, including AI-generated art and interactive displays .
Takeaway: Experiment with tech-infused décor—such as smart lighting or AI-curated prints—to add an interactive layer to your home.
5. Citywide Design Discoveries
What it is: Showrooms, boutiques, and cultural institutions opening special exhibits for Design Week.
2025 highlight: More than 100 showrooms and institutions like Teatro alla Scala offered free exhibitions, blending historical architecture with contemporary design .
Takeaway: Mix vintage or heirloom pieces with modern accents to achieve a curated, layered look in your interiors.
6. Insider Networking Events
What it is: Invitation-only dinners and talks where industry leaders share insights.
2025 highlight: Architectural Digest and Ralph Lauren’s dinner at Palazzo Ralph Lauren brought together 60 key figures to discuss trends from opera set design to museum innovation .
Takeaway: Stay connected—follow design forums, virtual talks, or local meet-ups to keep your own projects inspired by the latest global conversations.
xoxo, Just Things I Love