The theme chosen for this edition, “Connected Worlds,” promises to transform the neighborhood, with its multifaceted soul, into an open-air laboratory where nature and artifice translate into visionary installations, immersive experiences, and projects capable of redesigning the living spaces of tomorrow.
Among the most anticipated novelties, the Brera Design Apartment presents “Orizzonti“, a project curated by the Zanellato/Bortotto studio: “A word that refers to a demarcation line but for us also embodies a trait that unites paths, journeys, ideas, and dreams of our professional and personal journey,” explained Daniele Bortotto. Located at Via Palermo 1, this approximately 100-square-meter apartment offers a journey that, through artistic inspirations, archival images, and cinematic visions, represents a true design manifesto. Here are rooms inspired by the mist (or caigo) of Venice, the colors of the Namibian desert, and the ashen vapors of Mount Etna.
Alongside Artecasa, the main partner responsible for its realization, you’ll find products and applications from Botteganove and Bolzan, along with solutions from Agape, Davide Groppi, Del Savio 1910, Ethimo, Fenix Ntm, Fischbacher 1819, Lunardelli Venezia, Moroso, Rezina, Saba, Sikkens, and Wall&Decò. Also present are some pieces from the Galleria Luisa delle Piane collection, literally opening new narrative horizons within the apartment. Another name to note is that of interdisciplinary artist Michela Picchi for glo for art. At Palazzo Moscova 18, she will present an interactive work capable of merging elements of pop and surrealist art, utilizing vibrant colors and invisible technologies.
The theme “Connected Worlds” comes to life in the installation “Portanuova Vertical Connection”: an entirely layher-structured, walkable and accessible structure, inviting visitors to embark on an experience guided by artificial intelligence. The project is designed by Evastomper studio, with scientific contribution from Professor Stefano Mancuso, a plant neurobiologist and botany expert. Great anticipation surrounds “Frozen” by Tokujin Yoshioka, one of Japan’s most renowned designers, who presents his luminous sculpture “Aqua Chair” with Grand Seiko, transforming over time.
Gucci will be present in the always splendid setting of the Chiostri di San Simpliciano with Bamboo Encounters, an exhibition celebrating the legacy of bamboo in design history and the Maison’s identity. Eyes are also on the Cortile della Seta at Via Moscova 33, where Loro Piana and Dimoremilano will present an immersive installation rich in cinematic suggestions. Recognized as an international point of reference, capable of blending craftsmanship, art, culture, lifestyle, gastronomy, and hospitality, the Brera Design District will host over 200 permanent showrooms this year, with 10 new openings planned for this edition. Not to be missed is that of Molteni&C, which doubles its presence in the district between the historic boutique on Via Solferino and the new Palazzo Molteni on Via Manzoni, with its glorious Liberty influences.
The Brera Design Week 2025 thus confirms itself as an unmissable event for professionals, artists, and enthusiasts: the historic alleys will be clad in inspiration and creativity with insights ranging from kitchens (see the collaboration between Signature Kitchen Suite and Elena Salmistraro or the talks by Valcucine in their showroom on Corso Garibaldi 99) to innovations in AI (to be discovered thanks to Solferino28 and Mario Cucinella Architects with their Città Paradiso), up to coatings and surfaces (from Florim‘s “The World of Clay”, explored with Matteo Thun and Benedetto Fasciana, to Italy’s largest materials library inaugurated by Materia 2.0, including the focus on formica (r) by Fenix Scenario). Finally, it is impossible to forget the ancient soul of the neighborhood: the Michelangelo Foundation presents objects resulting from the collaborative work of a master craftsman and an emerging talent selected for the Homo Faber Fellowship.
