Every April, Milan transforms into a vibrant hub of innovation, artistry, and design during its renowned Design Week. This year, from April 8 to 13, the city once again became the epicentre of the design world, unveiling trends and concepts that offer a glimpse into our future of interior design.
Here's an intimate look at the most groundbreaking and novel exhibitions and design concepts that defined Milan Design Week 2025.
Installed glassworks in the basement of Piscina Cozzi building in Milan.
1. The Resurgence of Glass: Transparency with a Twist
Glass is coming back. Glass blocks, tempered glass, you name it, it has made it's return. And it took the center stage this year. Designers reimagined this material, showcasing its versatility and emotive potential.
At the heart of this movement was the exhibition by 6:AM, a contemporary Murano glass brand. Their showcase, “Two-Fold Silence,” was set in the abandoned public shower stalls beneath Piscina Cozzi—a 1930s rationalist landmark. The juxtaposition of finely crafted Murano glass chandeliers and sculptures against the gritty, decayed backdrop created a hauntingly beautiful narrative. The immersive experience was further enhanced by a haunting soundscape, guiding visitors through corridors illuminated by cascading displays of glass light.
2. Playful Surrealism: Embracing Whimsy in Design
via Takayuki Sakiyama
A delightful undercurrent of whimsy and surrealism flowed through many installations, allowing viewers to engage with the design on a more imaginative and Alice in Wonderland-like level.
via Shozo Michikawa
LOEWE's exhibition was a testament to this trend. They presented 25 artist-designed teapots, each reinterpreting the traditional form in unexpected ways. From molten blobs to architectural structures, these teapots challenged conventional design norms and celebrated artistic freedom. You can take a look at all the teapots here.
3. Material Innovation: Blending Tradition with Modernity
via Materia 2.0 Material Library Milan
Designers showcased a the beautiful hybrid of masterful traditional craftsmanship with modern materials, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in interior design.
Innovative techniques were on display, such as embroidery on wood, woven brass, and clay textiles. These combinations not only highlighted the tactile beauty of materials but also emphasized sustainability and functionality.
4. Immersive Installations: Engaging All Senses
Beyond visual appeal, many installations aimed to engage all the senses, creating holistic experiences for visitors.
via Vogue
Prada's “Frames” symposium, titled “In Transit,” was a prime example. Held at the iconic Centrale train station, the event transformed the space into a platform for discussions on global infrastructures. Talks were held aboard the historic Arlecchino train and in the station's Royal Pavilion, reflecting the theme of motion and structure. Prada's program emphasized having conversations over just visual presentation, fostering deeper engagement with the participants.
5. Nature-Inspired Motifs: Bringing the Outdoors In
via Vogue
A strong connection to nature was evident in many designs, with motifs and materials drawing inspiration from the natural world.
via Le Mile
Dior's monumental glass vases celebrated nature.
While Gucci's “Bamboo Encounters” invited artists to reinterpret the iconic material. These installations emphasized organic textures, bamboo, and fuzz, creating a harmonious blend of the natural and the crafted.
6. Fashion and Design: A Seamless Integration
The boundaries between fashion and interior design continued to blur, with fashion houses presenting home collections that reflected their brand ethos.
The Row Home Collection via wallpaper.com
The Row debuted its Home collection with artisan-crafted blankets, and Saint Laurent honored designer Charlotte Perriand by realizing her archival furniture sketches. These collaborations underscored the expanding influence of fashion in lifestyle and interiors.
7. Sustainable Luxury: Ethical and Aesthetic Harmony
Sustainability remained a central theme, with designers emphasizing eco-friendly materials without compromising on luxury.
Loro Piana for Milan Design Week 2025 via Boca do Lobo
Brands like Loro Piana and Ralph Lauren showcased collections that prioritized sustainable practices. From the use of natural fibers to eco-conscious production methods, these designs demonstrated that luxury and sustainability can coexist harmoniously.
Milan Design Week 2025 was a testament to the evolving landscape of interior design. The convergence of tradition and innovation, the emphasis on sustainability, and the celebration of artistic expression all point towards a future where interiors are not just spaces but detailed narratives—stories waiting to be told.
As I reflect on the week, I'm inspired to incorporate these insights into my own designs, creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also meaningful and forward-thinking.