The Salone del Mobile.Milano has officially made its mark in New York City with the launch of the installation Italian Design: From Classic to Contemporary at Bloomingdale’s flagship store. Curated by renowned architect Ferruccio Laviani, the installation celebrates the rich history and forward-thinking evolution of Italian design. This event is the first of three international showcases planned by Salone del Mobile, with upcoming stops in Shanghai and Hong Kong. The installation will be on display until September 29th, accompanied by a series of talks curated by Annalisa Rosso, titled Conversations about Italian Design.
The USA has proven to be a significant market for Italian design, ranking as the third-largest export market for the Italian Wood Furniture sector, with a 5.2% increase in exports in early 2024. With the growing demand for “Made in Italy” products, especially in the residential and hospitality sectors, Italian design companies continue to play a pivotal role in shaping global trends. New York City, a hub of cultural and creative innovation, serves as an ideal starting point for the Salone’s global journey.
The Italian Design: From Classic to Contemporary installation features an impressive collection of pieces from 23 iconic Italian brands, showcasing both timeless icons and contemporary innovations. Brands such as Artemide, Kartell, and Molteni&C are part of this exceptional selection, demonstrating the craftsmanship and artistry that define Italian furniture design. The installation draws inspiration from the works of Italian artists and designers like Giorgio de Chirico, Mario Ceroli, and Achille Castiglioni, creating a dialogue between the past and the present.
The opening event, held on September 5th, was attended by key figures in the design community, including Italy’s Consul General Fabrizio Di Michele. A panel discussion followed, featuring Maria Porro, President of Salone del Mobile.Milano; Kelley Carter, Bloomingdale’s Fashion Director; and Ferruccio Laviani, moderated by Felix Burrichter, Founder of PIN-UP magazine. The panel explored the global influence of Italian design and the role of the Salone in promoting new talent and innovation within the industry.
The Conversations about Italian Design series will continue on September 11th, featuring a discussion between Eleni Petaloti, Co-founder of Objects of Common Interest, and Qiyao Li, Associate Principal at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. On September 18th, artist Francesco Simeti and Stefano Giussani, Partner & COO at Lissoni Architecture New York, will discuss the interplay between contemporary design and classical Italian culture. Both events will further highlight the enduring influence of Italian design on global architecture and interiors.
Accompanying the installation are official partners Cà del Bosco, S.Bernardo, and illycaffè, each representing the quality and craftsmanship synonymous with Italian culture. As the Salone embarks on its international tour, it continues to celebrate Italian design as a powerful force in the global market, blending tradition with innovation in a way that inspires.
