Milan Design Week 2026

DCA attended Milan Design Week 2026, gathering inspiration from three of the city’s most influential design districts.

The first day focused on the Tortona District, known for its experimental and immersive exhibitions. Here, the team explored installations driven by material innovation and forward-thinking ideas, with a strong emphasis on sustainability. At Superstudio, Samsung presented “Design is an Act of Love”, an interactive spatial experience centred on human-focused design. Lexus showcased its “SPACE” installation, using light, sound, and materiality to create a fully immersive environment. The experience blurred the lines between technology and atmosphere, offering a vision for the future of mobility through its flagship Lexus LS concept vehicle.

The second day took place in the Brera District, where design is deeply integrated into the surrounding urban environment. Exhibitions here felt more curated and narrative-driven, combining heritage with contemporary thinking. IKEA presented “Food for Thought”, an exploration of cooking and dining rituals through reimagined domestic spaces. The exhibition also introduced three new product concepts that demonstrated a balance of playful functionality and practical design. 

Kia contributed with two exhibitions under the theme “Resonance of Opposites”, showcasing its evolving design philosophy through six landmark electric vehicle concepts. The experience was structured as a sensory journey, revealing the brand’s creative process and the perspectives that shape its design language

The final day was dedicated to Salone del Mobile, offering a comprehensive overview of global design at scale. Leading brands unveiled new furniture and lighting collections, with a clear shift towards refined detailing, durable materials, and modular systems. A growing interest in artificial intelligence in furniture design was evident, particularly in collaborations between Kartell and Philippe Starck, where sustainability was achieved through optimised material use without compromising form. The exhibition reinforced the importance of craftsmanship alongside industrial precision, while reflecting wider trends towards adaptability and understated luxury. 

Overall, the event offered a compelling insight into the future direction of design. DCA leaves Milan Design Week inspired by the ideas, innovation, and creativity on display, and looks forward to returning next year.