You may call Claudio Spotti an actual design patron: located in the very heart of Milan, his concept store has indeed become a landmark for international design excellences, and the home to Spotti Edizioni’s special editions and captivating installations that – at the change of seasons – turn into must-sees for any design enthusiasts and members of the trade.
On the occasion of the Milano Design Week 2017, it was Rose Gold to blow our minds, meaning Paolo Rizzo’s furniture and lighting collection built in pink gold lacquered SuperMirror stainless steel. That hectic time of year now being over, we invited Spotti to join up – together with Felix Burrichter, Gio Tirotto, Paolo Gonzato and Federico Peri – our new section dedicated to the Milano Design Week’s hottest topics: here’s the Q&A’s.
1. First thought that comes to mind if you hear the words, “Milano Design Week 2017”.
High quality. After a few slightly lethargic editions, this year has been a great demonstration of creativity and manufacturing’s mutual respect and tight link. In 2017 more than ever, the Salone managed to inject lifeblood into our city, thus making it a landmark for international design, and also a sparkling cultural hub engaged with local businesses and talents. Moreover, we shall not forget the FuoriSalone, a priceless source of inspiration and trends that are soon to hit the global market.
2. The most exciting project you spotted this year.
With lighting design playing a key role in the current edition, my heart was immediately drawn to a couple of stunning lighting projects: 84 by Bocci, that is a white glass moil captured inside a fine copper mesh basket and plunged into hot clear glass – in other words, the perfect blend of refinement and charme; and also Astep’s latest creations, since the company specialises in innovative, contemporary lighting projects along with the restoration of old iconic classics in the name of timeless design.
3. Your all-time fave installation.
The light-themed installations conceived by Calvi and Brambilla for Flos: a truly convincing exhibition itinerary, indeed. The set up by Formafantasma at Krizia is definitely worth a mention – an ideal representation of the Milano Design Week’s innovative twist and tireless hunger for research.
4. The most thrilling person you met.
Christophe Delcourt. Although I already had the chance to meet him before, its was only by kicking off our new partnership in celebration of the FuoriSalone 2017 that his incredibly creative and professional attitude fully revealed itself: he is a passionate designer able to combine craftsmanship and design in an ode to essentiality, forms, and materials.
5. Your biggest disappointment.
Being such a huge trade fair crammed with an ever-increasing number of exhibiting brands and designers, sometimes to stand out among the many is not an easy affair. Indeed, my biggest worry is the overall stylistic uniformity: to this end, much effort has been made, but I still confide in even wilder, more daring and avant-garde opportunities for the near future.
6. Any wishes for next year?
New designers, new projects, new proposals. It may sound obvious, but it is not that easy for creatives to stand out against the mass and provide inspiration to fellow colleagues and members of the trade.
7. Describe your work in one sentence.
A constant research on new products and designers in order to develop a “living concept” based on strong customisation.
