This year’s edition sees some of the world’s most renowned designers and emerging talents converging in Milan to transform the city into a playground of experiential art and design.

Among the standout works is Gucci's “Bamboo Encounters,” curated by architect Ippolito Pestellini Laparelli. Set within the serene cloisters of San Simpliciano, the installation pays homage to bamboo’s enduring legacy in the fashion house’s history—especially its iconic bamboo-handled bags from 1947. Seven international artists and designers present works that explore bamboo as both a material and a metaphor for adaptability and sustainability, reflecting on its cultural and ecological significance.

Other notable installations include Bethan Laura Wood’s colorful and intricate solo showcase, and an interactive exhibit by fashion brand Bottega Veneta at Palazzo San Fedele, which explores the tension between public and private spaces. Meanwhile, the Isamu Noguchi Foundation brings a moment of reflection with a serene Japanese rock garden installation, connecting historical artistry with modern minimalism.

Themes of environmental responsibility, material innovation, and emotional storytelling run strongly throughout this year’s exhibitions. From immersive spatial design to conceptual explorations of identity and climate, the installations challenge visitors to think beyond conventional design boundaries.

Milan Design Week 2025 once again cements its position as the world’s premier design event—where heritage meets the future, and design speaks directly to the global issues of our time.