When in Milan

 

Salone unofficially kicked off last night with the opening of a project we have been working on for a few months, an Everyday Life Objects Shop, which was presented by SM and marialicci at Via Arena 19. Apartamento Magazine and Andy Beach from Reference Library collaborated to create a retail experience based on the shared philosophy of mixing everyday with rare and special items. The shop was set up with the help of designer Max Lamb, who will also be on hand for the first two days to create objects upon request. Highlights of the week will include the presence of designer Martino Gamper on Thursday afternoon; Bertjan Pot will create one of his amazing paper lanterns live in the shop on Friday from 1–3 PM. While over the weekend the design trio Rich, Brilliant, Willing will entertain the visitors with grilled cheese sandwiches. (ABOVE: THE EDITORS PREPARE THE SHOP.)

Marco Velardi, associate editor of Apartamento Magazine and co-owner of creative agency SM, reports from his hometown, Milan, during Salone del Mobile (April 22–27). It’s not a diary or report on what to buy, but rather a personal snapshot of what the world-famous design fair has to offer.