Our Journey Through Milan During the Salone del Mobile 2025

Every April Kathy and I embark on our annual pilgrimage to Milan for the Salone del Mobile. This global event is the celebration of Italian design that draws over 350,000 designers, architects, buyers, and enthusiasts.  It is an exhilarating atmosphere filled with inspiration, innovation, and, admittedly – a lot of chaos. From sky-high hotel rates to impossible to get dinner reservations, Milan during this week is a whirlwind, but we always walk away with unforgettable moments, and I’d love to share a few from this year.

Our biggest “wow” experience was an evening where Kathy and I, along with a group of twenty guests, were invited to a private cocktail event held on The Highline Galleria – a hidden architectural gem perched atop the world-renowned Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Guided through the historic shopping arcade, we were led to an inconspicuous elevator that took us to a maze of steel walkways above the grand domed rooftops. By day, this space functions as a maintenance platform for the Galleria but by night, it transforms into a surreal rooftop venue with amazing views of the Milanese skyline. The setting, a high-end cocktail reception juxtaposed against industrial steel walkways, offered a rare perspective of the city, far removed from the usual tourist paths.

Another highlight came by way of a private invitation to visit the Palazzo Ralph Lauren – Ralph Lauren’s Milan residence. Tucked discreetly in the city center, the palazzo blends timeless Greek and Roman traditions with abstract and modern influences, creating a sense of looking backwards and forward at the same time. Touring the residence was a rare privilege, offering a glimpse into Ralph Lauren’s refined lifestyle in an utterly unique setting.

Of course, no Milan experience is complete without mentioning the food. While dining at the city's most coveted restaurants can be a logistical challenge during design week, our efforts to explore off-the-beaten-path culinary gems paid off. One such discovery was Marea – Seafood & Beverage, tucked within the charming San Lorenzo Columns district. The restaurant is helmed by a former Michelin-starred chef who stepped away from the pressures of fine dining to reconnect with the joy of cooking. Together with a partner who is an acclaimed mixologist, they’ve created an atmosphere that feels both intimate and elevated. From inventive seafood dishes to exquisitely creative cocktails, it was one of the most memorable meals we’ve had in Milan.

Design week in Milan is, of course, about exploring the latest in Italy interiors – but what stays with us most are the experiences and the relationships that surround it. The annual pilgrimage is about the way we live, gather, and connect, and relate, with a little chaos for good measure.