A true treasure in the heart of Milan, the Palazzo Litta played host to a special showcase during Fuorisalone titled “A Matter of Perception: Tradition & Technology.”
Berlin-based architect Diebedo Francis Kéré redesigned the palace’s central courtyard, transforming it into a “Courtyard Village” where visitors could meet and greet.
All photography by Elisabetta Rizzato
Born in Burkina Faso, Kéré drew inspiration from African villages for this installation: Wild grass surrounded an elevated platform with silo-like shelters made of stone. The entire structure was left open to visually connect it to the site as well as create a welcoming and warm environment for visitors to explore and relax in between Fuorisalone events. Yet the panels that make up the wall structures also create a playful hide-and-seek effect.
“I very much like the power of Palazzo Litta’s architecture, the welcoming courtyard and the spacious rooms where in every corner you discover a surprise,” said the architect. “This is an excellent setting in which to show contemporary design.”
The installation included Kéré’s first stool, ZIBA, which was produced by Riva 1920; Muller Van Severen’s Alu round tables and chairs produced by Valerie Objects; and Atelier Ternier’s DISC-series of platters from Labt.
Meanwhile, the Dutch pavilion took over another important historical site in Milan, the Palazzo Turati. Titled “Masterly — The Dutch in Milano,” it showcased the work of 125 designers curated by Nicole Uniquole.
The concept behind the exhibition demonstrated how the Dutch creative scene is weaving traditional handcrafting techniques into contemporary design.
Visitors were welcomed into a courtyard that was partially covered with a mosaic of 15,000 Dutch tulips, a colorful and natural “carpet” of sorts that also perfumed the air with fragrance. Amidst the floral display, guests lounged in Sketches chairs designed by Bo Reudler Studio for JSPR.
