Blog, trends, etc.

Open Shelving: Organised Brilliance

Open shelving systems offer both practicality and style, allowing you to showcase your belongings while adding visual interest to your space. By incorporating a few key design principles, you can create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing display.

    
Pictured: Aria by Porada and Charlotte by Bontempi Casa

Mix open and closed storage
Achieve balance by combining open shelves with closed cabinets or drawers, such as the Aria bookcase by Porada or Charlotte bookcase by Bontempi Casa. This blend of storage options allows you to neatly conceal items that you prefer to keep out of sight while displaying decorative pieces or frequently used essentials on open shelves.

Careful placement and styling
Arrange your items thoughtfully, mixing textures, heights, and shapes to create visual appeal. Use decorative trinkets, vases, books, and artwork to inject personality into your display. Group items in odd numbers and vary their placement to create a dynamic look.

Pictured: Airport by Cattelan Italia

Clever lighting
Illuminate your open storage with strategically placed lighting to highlight your displayed items and create ambiance. Consider installing LED strip lights or spotlights above or below the shelves to accentuate specific objects and add warmth.

Think about the background
Enhance the visual impact of your open storage by adding a mirrored or wallpapered background. Mirrors can make the space appear larger while reflecting light, while wallpaper adds texture and pattern, injecting personality into the design.

     
Pictured: Charlotte Corner and Atena by Bontempi Casa

Stick to the grid
Create a sense of organisation and cohesion by arranging items in a grid-like pattern. This structured approach not only adds visual interest but also creates a streamlined and orderly look. Consider shelving units such as the Atena or Charlotte Corner bookcases by Bontempi Casa.

By incorporating these design strategies, you can elevate your open storage system from purely functional to a stylish focal point that enhances the overall look and feel of your space.

Designs for Life

In the realm of interior design, creating spaces that transcend mere aesthetics to become sanctuaries of wellbeing is both an art and a science. At its core lies the philosophy that every detail matters, no matter how small, in shaping the way we experience our surroundings. From the arrangement of furniture to the choice of lighting, each element contributes to a holistic environment that fosters harmony, comfort, and a sense of sanctuary.

      
Pictured: Kodi Armchair, Franz Sofa, H2O Coffee Table and Tondo Mirror by Bontempi Casa 

Composition is key in creating spaces that speak to our senses and uplift our spirits. It’s about finding the perfect balance between form and function, beauty and practicality. A well-composed room flows effortlessly from one area to the next, guiding the eye and inviting exploration. Thoughtful placement of furnishings and decor ensures that every corner serves a purpose, whether it's a cosy reading nook bathed in natural light or a serene meditation corner tucked away for moments of reflection

Harmony reigns supreme in spaces designed with intention and care. It's about creating a cohesive whole where every element feels like it belongs. From the colour palette to the materials used, harmony infuses a sense of unity and coherence that soothes the soul. Rich textures, plush fabrics, and organic forms come together to create a sensory experience that delights and inspires.

      
Pictured: Matics Glass Sideboard, Ziggy Table and Frida Chair by Porada

But perhaps it’s the small details that truly make the biggest difference. The feel of a luxurious rug underfoot, the soft glow of a carefully placed lamp, the scent of freshly cut flowers — all these subtle touches contribute to a sense of comfort and wellbeing that transforms a house into a home. It’s about creating spaces that not only look beautiful but also feel inviting and nurturing, where every sight, sound, and sensation is carefully curated to elevate the everyday moments of life.

In the end, creating designs for life is about more than just decorating a space; it's about crafting an experience that enhances our daily lives and nourishes our souls.

Stunning Sideboards: Style and Storage

When it comes to interior decor, sideboards can play a vital role in not only enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a space but also in providing functional storage solutions.

      
Pictured: Universal by Calligaris and Cosmopolitan by Bontempi Casa 

The Calligaris Universal Ceramic Sideboard is a versatile piece that combines sleek design with ample storage space. Its closed doors provide a neat yet glamorous look, perfect for storing dinnerware, linens, or other essentials in your dining area.

For those who appreciate modernity and transparency in their furniture, Bontempi Casa's Cosmopolitan Small Glass Sideboard is a perfect choice. Glossy glass panels create an illusion of space, making it ideal for smaller rooms. Despite its compact size, it offers generous storage options, making it both stylish and functional.

      
Pictured: Tylsa by Porada

Porada's Tylsa Sideboard is a true embodiment of luxury and sophistication. With its clean rounded lines and hidden storage compartments, it's a practical solution for decluttering your living space. From books to electronics, this sideboard can store a variety of items while maintaining a polished appearance.

      
Pictured: Lavander by Cattelan Italia and Musa by Bontempi Casa

If you're looking for a sideboard that combines flair and function effortlessly, the Lavander Sideboard by Cattelan Italia is worth considering. Its decorative front conceals generous storage space, making it a chic addition to any modern home. You can effortlessly tuck away items like board games, magazines, or entertainment accessories.

Lastly, the Musa Sideboard by Bontempi Casa exudes contemporary elegance with its textured lines and smart ceramic top. The contrasting materials and thoughtful design details make it a focal point in any room. With its spacious compartments and stylish appeal, it offers both practicality and visual appeal in equal measure.

Whether you prefer a minimalist aesthetic or a more luxurious look, there's a sideboard on this list to suit every taste and style preference.

Milan Salone del Mobile 2024

From 16th to 21st April Milan's Salon del Mobile fair at Fiera Milano will showcase the newest trends and innovations in furniture and design. Here visitors can explore cutting-edge styles, attend insightful discussions on industry trends, participate in hands-on workshops and connect with like-minded professionals from around the world. Salon del Mobile is not just a showcase; it's a platform for dialogue, learning and inspiration.

The fair takes place amidst the world's largest design festival Milan Design Week, comprising exhibitions, talks, workshops, and networking opportunities at locations across Milan. Building upon the success and creativity of previous editions, this year's event aims to inspire and spark conversations about the future of design.

What's this year all about?

One of the key themes is sustainability. Designers from around the world are coming together to present eco-friendly solutions and showcase how sustainable practices can be integrated seamlessly into interior design. From recycled materials to energy-efficient technologies, the focus is on creating spaces that not only look stunning but also contribute positively to the environment.

Another highlight of this year's event is the integration of technology into design. With advancements in artificial intelligence, augmented reality and smart home systems, designers are exploring new ways to enhance user experience and create interactive and functional spaces, transforming the ordinary into dynamic environments.

As we look forward to Salon del Mobile Milano 2024, we anticipate a vibrant celebration of design, innovation and creativity. From sustainable practices to technological advancements and cultural exchanges, this event is set to redefine the possibilities of interior design and inspire the next wave of creative thinkers.

Tickets: https://www.salonemilano.it/en/admissions-and-tickets