A Designer's Guide to the 2024 Edition of Salone del Mobile

This year's Salone del Mobile is in full force. For the fair's 62nd edition, held between Tuesday, April 16th through Sunday, April 21st, Salone will host 1900 exhibitors, and a number of notable activations including a installation by American filmmaker David Lynch; SaloneSatellite, a "visionary hub dedicated to designers under 35 is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year"; and EuroCucina, the biennial International Kitchen Furniture Exhibition, the most exciting and important expo worldwide in its category.

What makes Salone del Mobile a global destination for interior designers is the number of individuals in our industry who trek to Milan each year. Salone is not only one of the best networking events for designers like ourselves, but for the entire design ecosystem. We're talking designers, suppliers, brands, architects, developers, artists, those in the fashion world, the culinary world, hôteliers, and everyone in between.

Stepping into the fair, one is greeted by palpable energy that fills the air. The buzz of excitement mingled with the hum of conversations in various languages creates a dynamic atmosphere that is both invigorating and inspiring. From sleek and minimalist furniture to extravagant avant-garde pieces, the diversity of styles and concepts on display is staggering. Each booth tells a unique story, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a world of imagination and creativity.

What is most notable about Salone del Mobile is the sense of community that permeates the event. Designers, architects, manufacturers, and enthusiasts from all corners of the globe converge in Milan to celebrate their shared passion for design.

The preferred hotels from MAWD's design team include The Senato Hotel Milano, a private family home that was transformed by architect Alessandro Bianchi into a 42-room hotel offering luxe materials and a high level of attention to design. Hotel VIU can be found behind a wooden-clad Modernist façade, while a rooftop pool and terrace provide guests with a view of Milan's skyline.

Where do designers eat in Milan? Michelin-starred Iyo uniquely combines Japanese and Italian culinary traditions, while Tokuyoshi uses Italian ingredients to realize Japanese dishes. Cracco remains a classic dinner option for Milan, and a favorite for those visiting during design week. For an aperitivo, Bar Basso is the place to be. A truly cult bar for sophisticated drinking devotees, Bar Basso was the first-ever bar in Milan to introduce the “aperitif” as part of Italian culture.

During Salone, our team recommends L’Appartamento by Artemest, the second installation created to celebrate the beauty and talent behind Italian craftsmanship and design. The setting for this year's event will be held in the Residenza Vignale, a distinguished Milanese mansion dating back to 1905-1907 and nestled in the vibrant 5Vie district. Six global interior designers will transform one of the rooms in Residenza Vignale using Artemest furniture, lighting and décor.

Once again, Gaggenau will return to Villa Necchi Campiglio for their presentation of “The Elevation of Gravity” at Milan Design Week 2024. The architectural installation presents an exhibition whereby the invisible force of gravity is made tangible in the form of a new way of living and Gaggenau’s upcoming works. The brand’s relentless pursuit of an elevated life through masterful craftsmanship isn’t only viewed, but experienced via exclusive experiences throughout the week.

Molteni&C is celebrating the group's 90 year anniversary, and will host a number of exciting initiates at Salone del Mobile. This includes an anniversary book from Rizzoli launching soon.

Curious to learn more about Molteni&C, the MAWD team recommends visiting the Molteni Museum in Giussano, where there is currently an exhibition curated by designer Ron Gilad. The museum will stage a dialogue between authors and objects from different eras dedicated to the company's history and identity.