What We Saw at Milan Design Week
General
Inside-Out
Plush outdoor furnishings make exterior spaces feel more like an extension of interior comforts. From private, secluded lounging to larger spaces for entertaining, high-quality fabrics and materials are designed to withstand the elements and look stylish throughout the seasons. Color palettes are inspired by their natural surroundings, including soft neutrals and bolder, sun-kissed hues.
BIG Design
For the first time in Europe, visitors to the show experienced the massive Ocean Master MEGA MAX Classic from Tuuci. With sizes spanning up to 24 feet and wind resistance for gusts up to 75 MPH with in-ground anchors, the MEGA MAX parasol embodies marine grade engineering and elegant design.
Visitors were also able to explore the innovative Virtual Shade Studio, the industry-first visualizer using sophisticated gaming technology to provide a robust 3D experience and client-ready renderings. Using the tool, anyone can easily discover unlimited design customization possibilities while creating a Tuuci product in real time to bring their design vision to life.
Contrast Welt
Instead of hiding construction details, designers are celebrating them with contrasting colors and materials that draw attention to their form. Contrasting stitching, upholstery buttons, wood stains and metals all highlight furnishings’ beautiful lines and solid construction.
Contrasting Tables
Coffee and side tables were often seen in nested groupings. Tables of different shapes and sizes, as well as a mixed use of materials, were paired together to create a unique focal point. No material is off-limits. We saw stones, woods, metallics, glass, and repurposed, upcycled composites nestled together in cozy convenience.
Lighting
Light fixtures became their own focal point in a variety of organic shapes and materials. Free-standing lamps, low-hanging pendants, and subtle ambient lighting along the floor were clearly an integral component to a well-considered design, both indoors and out. Like side tables, these fixtures were most often seen in artistic groupings to draw even more attention.
Colors
Blushed hues and warm terracotta were seen across furniture, wall colors and accent pieces. These sun-baked hues add simultaneous warmth and richness to a space, and many designers played with the intensity of the palette, from the softest rose petal pinks to vibrant fuchsias.
Sculptural Weaving
From furniture and lighting to wallcoverings and privacy screens, intricate weaves celebrate handcrafted artisanship, while adding tactile softness to a space. One of our favorite exhibits was the handiwork of @basketclub, a movement born on Instagram during the pandemic inviting designers to craft an object in basketweave around the theme of a shared emoji.
Luxe Leather
Leather was a prominent material across applications, including seating, side tables, accessories, and shelving. Imitation leather and responsible alternatives are advancing rapidly, driven by consumer demand for more sustainable solutions. Marine leather was even found in outdoor accessories, such as chaise lounges and side tables.
Milan Design Week was packed with art, culture, and the very best of global design and innovation. We were honored to be a part of it and look forward to returning next year with our latest imaginations for Tuuci’s marine grade beauty and performance.