Design Insider: Milan Design Week
written by studio gabrielle
As Milan Design Week returns between 6‑12th June for its first full‑scale event since the pandemic, we’ve been keeping our eyes closely on the most talked about moments including a “floating forest” by stefano boeri and “giant cats” by atelier biagetti. but a firm favourite, and our ‘best in show’ has to be the alcova exhibition which holds works from 80 exhibitors (including galleries, companies, cultural institutions, research centres and independent designers) in the most understated locations in Milan.
credit: @trameparis
Alcova
studio gabrielle’s best in show
Alcova presents a comprehensive and inspiring cross-section of the rapidly evolving world of design. The exhibitions present alternate works from established international figures with a selection of emerging talents, exploring new and exciting developments in the fields of technology, materials, sustainable production, social practice and many other branches of design.
but what is the reason for their success? curator of alcova, Valentina Ciuffi, says “Fifty per cent of Alcova’s success for me is due to the choice of location. We no longer believe in design exhibited in the trade fair booth, nor in excessively classic locations. In both cases you risk a flattening effect.”
credit: @confidentiel_pr
Alcova is a platform for independent design developed by Valentina Ciuffi (founder of Studio Vedèt) and Joseph Grima (founder of Space Caviar). Currently operating as an itinerant network of exhibition spaces across multiple sites in and around Milan, it activates forgotten locations of historical significance, temporarily recasting them as venues for exhibitions, installations and performances.
credit: @mattiaparodi
credit: @alcova.milano / @hollybyrne
Get The Look
(above, left to right clockwise): Quelle Fête Malibu Dorval by Kelly Wearstler X Rotganzen / Atelier 01 by lambert & fils / peony small by super flower studio / entwine saladier by trame / badinage 01 armchair by maxime boutillier / Ondamarmo Side Table by bloc studios
