For Paris, it’s couture week. For Austin, it’s South by Southwest. For Milan, Italy’s capital of design, it’s Milan Design Week, where each year some 370,000 professional visitors descend on the city for Salone del Mobile.Milano, the largest furniture fair in the world. Covering more than 210,000 square meters at the Rho Fiera Milano fairgrounds, the event showcases more than 2,300 of the most innovative and dynamic companies on the market. True to their city, here are some homes leading the way when it comes to industry-leading flair.
Historic Environs on Via Cappuccini
Barbara Fregonara, Italy Sotheby’s International Realty
No Milanese abode is complete without the perfect place to retire for a digestivo, and the sophisticated salon at this central address is the space to do just that. Located inside a prestigious historical building in the heart of the city, this apartment may be situated at the center of Milan’s cultural scene, but its elegant interiors provide a reprieve from the flurry of Design Week. An eclectic range of custom furnishings and hand painted walls add allure, and echo, at a distance, this year’s DE-SIGNO installation celebrating Leonardo da Vinci’s contributions to the Renaissance period at this year’s Salone.
An Artistic Loft on Via San Gregorio
Ilaria Dupré, Italy Sotheby’s International Realty
Concealed inside a Milanese courtyard, this art lover’s paradise offers a labyrinth of surprises. Its open concept, glass floors, and prominent loft give this home the feel of a gallery, with notable features including curved glass balustrades and a steel skeleton staircase. High ceilings and bright walls offer a great degree of décor versatility, and this space makes for both an elegant residence and a dynamic design studio. The most fantasticoof all the home’s features, however, might be the luxurious spa escape hidden away in the building’s lower levels, bringing to mind water installation AQUA. Leonardo’s Vision, on display as part of the 2019 Salone del Mobile.
Urban Flare on Via San Vito
Isabella Coppini, Italy Sotheby’s International Realty
For all its Torre Velasca views, this bright and airy apartment feels decidedly more West Village than Western Europe. Ample windows and exposed brick walls add New York sensibility to an otherwise laid-back home. Ideal for those who love to entertain, a cozy outdoor terrace teeming with plants overlooks the Duomo di Milano, and guests can retreat to their own private rooms in a quiet pocket of a vibrant city. If the exhibitors at this year’s Salone are any indication, well-crafted furniture with handmade appeal places this home right on trend.
A Historic Villa Near Piazzale Libia
Isabella Coppini, Italy Sotheby’s International Realty
A period home built in the early 20th century, this redesigned villa is prepped for the true escapist. Completely renovated in 2007, its exterior retains all of the character and Old-World charm of a historic building, while the interiors have been given a contemporary overhaul via sleek cabinetry and flooring. With a unique floor plan that includes six office rooms on the ground floor, a spacious apartment on the second level, and a suite in the basement, the villa could easily serve as architect studio, fashion maison, or expansive residence.
Original Frescoes on Via Giovanni Gherardini
Barbara Fregonara, Italy Sotheby’s International Realty
Those looking for a well-appointed appartamentonear the Arco della Pace, look no further than this bright four-bedroom suite situated in the historic Sempione district. The property features multiple terraces, herringbone hardwood floors, glass pocket doors, and crown molding, offering imaginative homeowners endless opportunities for design. With easy access to the restaurants and sights of Corso Sempione, this convenient home places you an easy commute from the action come Design Week.
While Design Week is fleeting, Milan continues to maintain its status as a style incubator throughout the year. Find the best of house and home in this auspicious cultural center.
Looking to put down roots in a capital of design? Find your luxury home in Milan from among these listings.
