MILAN DESIGN WEEK 2024 INSIGHTS: STONE AS A STAPLE IN MODERN DESIGN

The Milan Design Week, which took place from April 15 to 21, 2024, solidifies its reputation as a crucial meeting point for innovations in interior and furniture design. Transforming Milan into a global epicenter of creativity, the event highlights the integration of sustainable practices with cutting-edge materials, such as natural stones. During this vibrant week, the Salone del Mobile emerges as one of the highlights, presenting innovative solutions that shape the future of inhabited spaces. This year, a notable trend is the creative use of natural stones, showcased in exhibitions ranging from kitchen countertops to complete renovations of domestic and commercial environments. 

These stones not only add an aesthetic and timeless dimension to designs but also exemplify a commitment to sustainability and functionality. As we explore this trend throughout the event, we will see how natural stones are being reimagined in ways that challenge traditional conventions, transforming ordinary furniture into standout pieces that harmonize nature and modern design. This focus on durable and aesthetically rich materials not only elevates Milan’s status as a trendsetter in the design world but also heralds an era of more conscious design practices, setting a new standard for future Milan Design Weeks.

SALONE DEL MOBILE AND FUORI SALONE

The Salone del Mobile, also known as the Milan Furniture Fair, is an annual furniture fair held in Milan, Italy. It is one of the largest and most prestigious events of its kind in the world, showcasing the latest in furniture and design from around the globe. The fair typically attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors, this year close to 270 thousand people, including designers, architects, and industry professionals, making it a hub for networking and discovering the newest trends in furniture and interior design.

In conjunction with the Salone del Mobile, the Fuori Salone, or “Outside the Fair,” is a series of events, exhibitions, and installations that take place throughout the city during the same week. It transforms Milan into a vibrant and bustling showcase of design, attracting a diverse and creative crowd. The Fuori Salone involves the participation of numerous companies, close to 2,000 companies and exhibitions, ranging from established furniture manufacturers to up-and-coming design studios, creating a dynamic and immersive experience for attendees.

SPOTTED TRENDs

Nostalgic Influences

A wave of nostalgia sweeps through Milan with a resurgence of 60s and 70s themes, featuring faded retro color palettes and handmade illustrations that emphasize human touch and simplicity.

Maximalism and Experimental Typography

Milan Design Week showcases maximalism through loaded compositions that mix bold colors, shapes, and fonts, alongside experimental typography that includes abstract lettering and elongated fonts taking the spotlight.

Textural and Sensory Designs

Designers are adding real-world textures to their works, enhancing the sensory experience of their designs and embracing an earth-first approach that incorporates natural elements like rocks and forests, as well as leathered and rustic natural stone finishes.

Technological Integration

Milan Design Week also highlights the integration of technology in design, with a focus on AI-enhanced practices and sustainable, eco-friendly materials that reflect a commitment to environmental consciousness.

Crystals and Decorative Elements

From stunning crystal decorations to the incorporation of natural stone in remodeling, the event highlighted their seamless integration into contemporary aesthetics. Designers presented innovative ways to use crystals, either as decorative elements or as focal points, specially when backlit, adding luxury and tranquility to interior spaces, while architects and interior designers demonstrated the enduring appeal and functionality of natural stone in remodeling.

STONE AT MILAN DESIGN WEEK

The Milan Design Week 2024 featured an array of captivating exhibitions that showcased the innovative and artistic use of natural stones in various design elements, from round cuts of tubs to the combination of colors between natural stones and other room elements. The exhibitions highlighted the seamless integration of natural stones with different materials, as well as their adaptability and aesthetic appeal in modern design practices.

Versatile Design Elements

• Round Cuts of Tubs: Several exhibits presented round cuts of tubs crafted from natural stones, demonstrating the versatility and sculptural potential of these materials in bathroom design. As well as overall design objects, such as chairs and couches also follow into this design trend.

• Stone Skins and Tables: Exhibitions showcased the use of natural stones in creating intricate and visually striking skins and tables, highlighting the unique textures and patterns of different stone varieties. Sculpted sinks were also showcased, crafted from natural stones, blend artistry with functionality, offering unique textures, durability, and a touch of luxury to any space.

• Innovative Countertops:  Innovative countertops that open and close were on display, a kind of “pull out countertop”, featuring the elegant and functional use of natural stones in contemporary kitchen and living spaces. This fusion enhances both the aesthetic and practical aspects of modern interior design. It caters to evolving homeowner needs by blending natural stones with dynamic functionality.

1.2 Thickness Versatility

Quartzites are widely recognized in the design world for their exceptional resistance, durability, and natural beauty, making them ideal for a wide range of luxury project applications. Characterized by their ability to withstand scratches, wear, and weather variations, quartzite is an excellent choice for those seeking a combination of functionality and sophisticated aesthetics. Additionally, its variety of patterns and colors offers a luxurious aesthetic that can be customized to meet the exact specifications of any designer or architect.

In this context of innovation and adaptability in the use of natural materials in design, one of the most impactful innovations is the availability of Taj Mahal quartzite in a 1.2 cm thickness, an exclusivity offered by Zucchi. This thinner and lighter dimension opens up a range of possibilities for using Taj Mahal in furniture finishes. The reduced thickness allows the quartzite to be applied to furniture pieces without compromising the structure or functionality of the items, which would be more challenging with traditionally thicker dimensions.

The 1.2 cm thickness not only facilitates the handling and installation of the stone in various types of furniture, such as tabletops, decorative panels, and cabinet finishes, but also ensures that the final weight of the furniture remains practical and manageable. Moreover, this thinner thickness allows for a more subtle and elegant integration of the stone with other materials, maintaining the light and modern aesthetic that is essential in many contemporary designs.

Choosing the Taj Mahal in a 1.2 cm thickness for furniture finishing is not only a matter of aesthetics but also functionality. The stone maintains its durability and strength, characteristics inherent to high-quality quartzite, while offering versatility that extends its use beyond conventional applications in floors and walls. This innovative approach allows designers to explore new ways to incorporate the natural beauty of stones into their projects, creating furniture pieces that are true works of art.

Textural Finishes and Combinations

• Fluted Finishes: The exhibitions highlighted the artistry of fluted finishes on natural stones, accentuating the tactile and visual allure of this design technique in crafting dynamic and textured surfaces. Additionally, visitors were able to observe the harmonious blend of different finishes on a single countertop, such as a polished countertop paired with an island side adorned with a fluted finish. 

• Mix of Stone and Wood: Design compositions incorporating the mix of natural stones and wood were prominently featured, illustrating the harmonious blend of organic materials to create a warm and inviting aesthetic in interior design.

• Color Combinations: The juxtaposition of colors between natural stones and other room elements took center stage, demonstrating the artful fusion of tones and textures to create visually captivating and cohesive spaces. 

The exhibitions at Milan Design Week 2024 celebrated the beauty and adaptability of natural stones, showcasing their use in creating functional, aesthetically pleasing, and innovative design elements across various living spaces.

SUSTAINABILITY IN STONE

Natural Stone as a Sustainable Material

Natural stone has gained recognition as an exceptionally sustainable building material due to its inherent durability, longevity, and low environmental impact. Quarried directly from the earth, natural stone requires minimal processing, reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions compared to synthetic alternatives. Its timeless aesthetic appeal further enhances its sustainability by minimizing the need for frequent replacement or refurbishment, thereby reducing waste generation.

Architects’ Shift Towards Sustainable Practices

The architectural industry’s transition towards sustainable practices is underpinned by a growing awareness of environmental responsibility and the long-term impact of design choices. This shift is evident in the increasing incorporation of natural stone in architectural projects, driven by the material’s environmentally conscious attributes.

Architects are embracing sustainable practices by prioritizing materials with low embodied energy and high durability, aligning with the global movement towards eco-friendly and resilient construction.

Source of Architects’ Shift Towards Sustainable Practices

The architects’ shift towards sustainable practices is substantiated by a comprehensive study conducted by the World Green Building Council (WGBC) in 2022, which underscores the pivotal role of material selection in reducing the carbon

footprint of buildings. The report emphasizes the significant environmental advantages of utilizing natural stone and other sustainable materials, influencing architects and designers to integrate these elements into their projects to achieve greater ecological balance and resilience.

THE FUTURE OF DESIGN

Sustainable Practices and Material Innovation

1. Sustainable Luxury: There has been a notable shift towards the adoption of sustainable materials and responsible manufacturing methods. Natural stones, known for their timeless appeal, are governed by regulations that promote better sustainable practices and possess a cyclical life span. This approach not only minimizes waste but also elevates the luxurious qualities of the products.

2. The Rise of Moving Type: Kinetic and variable typography is becoming increasingly popular, providing brands with unique, customizable type options that enhance visual engagement.

3. Real Meets Surreal: Design is evolving to blend raw, unfiltered content with surreal, opulent visuals, creating distinctive, immersive experiences that captivate audiences.

This is a very short list of trends and practices that indicate a dynamic future for design, where sustainability, personalization, and technological integration play pivotal roles in shaping the industry.

CONCLUSION

At Milan Design Week 2024, we witnessed how modern design and sustainable practices merged, highlighting the significant role of natural stones like Taj Mahal in reshaping our living spaces. This event not only set the year’s design trends but also emphasized the integration of these durable and aesthetically pleasing materials into furniture, which is not just a trend but a substantial evolution in design that honors both beauty and sustainability.

Designers and architects showcased their foresight by utilizing natural stones for their ecological benefits and visual appeal, providing a blueprint for future sustainable and conscientious interior design practices. As we look ahead, the Salone del Mobile 2024 reinforces this shift, inspiring professionals worldwide to create environments that blend functionality, elegance, and environmental stewardship. Explore our virtual showroom to discover our full range of natural stone products and embrace the forefront of sustainable, stylish interior design.

FAQs

Q: What is the central theme of the 2024 Milan Design Week?

A: The central theme of the 2024 Milan Design Week is “Materia Natura,” which emphasizes the importance of design thinking and the fusion of various creative disciplines.

Q: What is the significance of the Salone del Mobile.Milano in April 2024?

A: The Salone del Mobile.Milano, scheduled from April 16th to 21st, is set to coincide with Milan Design Week 2024, offering a platform for the exhibition of cutting-edge designs and innovations, and setting the trends for global design.

Q: What were the trends of natural stones from Milan Design Week 2024?

A: The Trends of Milan Design Week 2024 about Natural Stones are round cuts and tubs; stone sinks, tables and countertops; crystals; functional countertops; fluted and mix of finishes; mix of stone and wood; and color combinations.