Preview: Milan Design Directions

In stark contrast to last year’s dystopian Polarity Paradox attitudes, this year designers presented bright and optimistic visions of the future, explored through speculative scenarios and design fiction. Traditional approaches to communicating design concepts were challenged through satirical, offbeat storytelling. For more on Salone Satire, Transient Landscapes and Uneasy Tensions, read our Milan inspire Part 1 and Part 2.

The Big Picture: Although brands and designers are increasingly becoming sceptical about the commercialisation of the event, Salone del Mobile upholds its reputation as a hotbed of new trends and design directions.