Salone del Mobile: Design in Continuum

At the 64th edition of Salone del Mobile.Milano, a carefully curated selection of exhibitions and initiatives unfolds as a compelling reflection on Italian design and its enduring cultural resonance. Through “ABITO,” “MADE IN MiC,” “The Chain of Wonders,” and “Common Archive - La Notte Bianca del Progetto,” the event presents a layered narrative that connects craftsmanship, history, and contemporary practice in a meaningful and accessible way.

Curated by Palomba Serafini Associati and promoted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, “ABITO” offers an intimate exploration of the relationship between fashion and design. Drawing on garments from the Quinto Tinarelli Collection alongside iconic Made in Italy objects, the exhibition traces a journey across the twentieth century to the present day. It highlights how shifts in clothing reflect broader transformations in daily life, with a particular focus on the evolving role of women and their growing presence in public and private spheres. Through this dialogue between garments and objects, “ABITO” captures the subtle ways in which design accompanies and shapes lived experience.

This reflection continues with “MADE IN MiC,” organized by the Ministry of Culture, which delves into the cultural foundations of Italian design. The exhibition presents a rich framework that begins with early examples of applied arts and proto-design, gathered under the Archetipi section. These works serve as key references that illuminate how artistic expression, craftsmanship, and emerging production methods gradually formed a shared design language. The exhibition then expands into thematic sections that explore interiors, textiles, museum collections, and everyday objects, offering a comprehensive view of design as a cultural practice.

In “The Chain of Wonders,” curated by Beppe Finessi and presented by FederlegnoArredo, the focus shifts to the wood-furnishing sector and the people who have shaped its evolution over the past 80 years. The exhibition brings together artworks, materials, and narratives that reflect the depth of expertise within the industry. Through its immersive approach, it highlights the interconnected roles of designers, craftsmen, and entrepreneurs, offering a portrait of a sector defined by collaboration, technical mastery, and a strong sense of identity. 

Extending beyond the fairgrounds, “Common Archive - La Notte Bianca del Progetto” transforms Milan into a vibrant cultural map for one evening. Organized by the Salone del Mobile Milano Observatory, the initiative opens access to a wide network of archives, inviting visitors to explore the processes behind design. Sketches, models, documents, and personal collections reveal the depth of thought and experimentation that underpins creative work, sharing an appreciation for the preservation and transmission of knowledge.

Together, these projects shape a cohesive narrative that celebrates Italian design as a living cultural expression. They highlight the richness of its history, the strength of its creative community, and its ability to remain deeply connected to everyday life. As the Salone continues to evolve as a global platform, these exhibitions reaffirm its role as a space where ideas, people, and traditions come together to inspire new perspectives and a lasting dialogue.