Open-air living is experiencing a seemingly unstoppable growth in popularity. Our enjoyment of outdoor settings reflects a rediscovered joie-de-vivre that’s best experienced in the open air. The boundary between interior and exterior spaces is increasingly less welldefined. At the heart of it all is liveability. Enjoying the sky and the horizon, in the city or on board a yacht, no longer means making sacrifices – now it’s all about comfort and stylistic choices, taste and colours. The outdoors is more than ever an expression of who we are – and it pampers us. Earthy colours, textures and evocations of the natural world are presented at the Milan Design Week 2023. Fabrics and upholstery are no longer just technical, they are beautiful. Woven materials are everywhere, evidence of a timeless artisanal passion. They also appear in sofas and chairs, with backs worked in links of various sizes recalling traditional methods. The outdoor spaces become modular, too – pouffes, small tables and oversize armchairs help construct interchangeable sets that smoothly transform the settings into whatever best suits the moment. Not forgetting the evergreen nautical styles, present as always but in chic, sophisticated versions. Sailors’ stripes are now replaced by more refined fabrics and patterns.
by Veronica Lempi
Trends and new products to keep a lookout for, enhancing what have become the most enjoyable moments of the day – those experienced in the open airAbove, maxi weave for the Knitty Lounge Chair designed by Nika Zupanc for Moooi; a place for relaxation and conversation. Left, three versions of Carl, a coffee table from the Sounds line from BertO, designed with the Castello Lagravinese Studio. The top is in shaped volcanic rock
An intriguing base, classic interpretation for the top – the Mimì table designed by Moredesign for My Your seats up to 10 diners and reflects an elegance infused by imagination. The gaps and solid surfaces of the recyclable aluminium base create an enchanting play of light
Sunshine in small doses, thanks to the chic Shady parasol designed by Kris Van Puyvelde for Royal Botania The framework is in teak with stainless steel ring, pulleys and accessories. The 300g/ mg acrylic canopy is available in eight colours. There is also a slightly smaller “slim” version
The Brise collection from Gervasoni by Federica Biasi is an invitation to socialise. Middle, the chairs with laser cut WoodEvolution backs recalling the dense weave of woven cane. Elements and structure are attached with a matching marine webbing
