Seek design inspiration from these buzzy venues on your next trip to the design and fashion capital
Milan is experiencing a new lease of life—in the last few years, the city has become even more vibrant with the emergence of new art and design districts, a surge of hotel and restaurant openings as well as the newly-completed landmarks designed by star architects.
From thoughtfully restored Milanese-style buildings, inspiring concept stores that pay homage to mid-century modern design to innovative menus at the buzzy restaurants and bars in town, there is much to see and experience even for the repeat visitor; even the classic Italian coffee break is made better if it's in an inspiring new location like the Fernanda bar bistro inside the Accademia di Brera.
Ahead of the upcoming Milan Design Week, which runs from April 9-15 this year, we shortlist the newest design hotspots to explore while you’re in Milan:
1. Stay: Savona 18 Suites
This once-abandoned 20th-century building has been revitalised as a boutique hotel, with interiors restored by Italian architect and Memphis co-founder Aldo Cibic. The residential-style interior creates an intimate and welcoming atmosphere while preserving its authentic Milanese court flavour, combining the retro charm of the structure with contemporary decor; the hotel is just a stone's throw from Navigli area, one of the most vibrant districts of the city. A lovely open-air courtyard is one of the hotel’s most charming features, where you can bask in the sun and enjoy the warm spring in Milan.