Reimagining the Urban Dwelling

For the last week in Milan at Salone del Mobile 2016, a simple question was explored with seemingly endless possibilities: How shall we live?

Though entirely open-ended at first glance, the framework for the answer is actually surprisingly predetermined due to one growing, indisputable trend. As people flock to cities in ever-increasing numbers, the demand for space and easy access to urban essentials is climbing in tandem. From that rush has risen a tension between the need for both privacy as well as a sense of community. Faced with that unique set of 21st century restrictions, what can be done?

A clever solution was proposed in the MINI Living Installation. Tapping into the signature MINI philosophy of Creative Use of Space, the 30-square-metre concept apartment used things like moveable shelving and kitchenettes as dividers between private and shared spaces. A chic bedroom and bathroom remained exclusive, while other sections of the home embraced the implicit energy in shared space. The dining room, living room, co-working office, urban garden, music and art studio and more were all opened up to the collaborative power of the community, co-owned by other residents in the complex.

To pursue the possibilities in more depth, evening events celebrated topics surrounding the idea of shared space. An Expert Talk by a panel of architects, designers and urban planners pondered the future of urban planning; a dinner party was hosted by Architizer; and a house-warming bash complete with live music and entertainment all kept guests coming back day after day, night after night.

With Salone del Mobile now in the rear-view mirror, MINI will look to the horizon to see where Creative Use of Space can be applied next. Stay tuned.