As the warmth of April melts away winter's grip, it prompts us to honor our cherished Mother Earth. Despite the challenges posed by human intervention—consumption, overpopulation, and carbon emissions—the beauty of our planet perseveres. This April also marks the esteemed Design Week in Milan, where our visit to the Salone del Mobile trade show was a voyage of inspiration and discovery.
Amidst a backdrop of heightened environmental consciousness, this year's participants—designers, vendors, and architects—wholeheartedly embraced the essence of nature. Yet, beyond the trade show, Milan offered an array of captivating experiences throughout the city. Its breathtaking architecture and renowned brands solidify its status as a cultural mecca—a true testament to human craftsmanship.
During my leisurely stroll through Milan's streets, I chanced upon the Alberto Levi Gallery, where owner Alberto graciously welcomed me. Drawn by an exquisite blueish grey carpet against a wall, a part of the "Rugged" collection crafted from 100% Jute in collaboration with Alessandro Pasinelli Studio.
Jute is a natural fiber renowned for its durability, versatility, and eco-friendliness. Harvested from the stems of the jute plant, this sustainable material boasts a coarse texture with a slightly shiny appearance, adding a touch of rustic charm to any space. Its innate strength ensures longevity, making jute rugs ideal for high-traffic areas of the home. Handmade in India and naturally dyed, these rugs evoked memories of my childhood days walking barefoot amidst freshly cut bloomed fields where the grass felt especially silky and smelled so fresh. Their gentle yet subtly dry touch forged a connection with nature, while their earthy tones exuded timeless sophistication.
Further exploration revealed a treasure trove of outdoor rugs made from 100% recycled PET plastic—resilient against rain and woven with artisanal mastery. Soft and perfectly geometric, one could hardly believe their plastic origin, being extremely durable and stain resistant works well for commercial use.
The final room showcased custom, hand-woven luxurious wool and silk carpets designed by Barbara Frua, reminiscent of shorn velvet, offering plush comfort and sheer opulence. Each intricate bespoke pattern the taste and creativity of true Northern Italian artisans.
Enraptured by this collection, I eagerly await its potential showcase in New York, to introduce it to my fellow designers and clients. Decorating with eco-friendly approach aligns with sustainable practices and helps us to mitigate future environmental pollution. Biodegradable products like that leaving us free from gilt of waste and exposure of indoor chemicals. Bringing beautiful solution to any space - as well as a true testament to luxury and harmony with our beloved Earth.
Written by Lana Alexander.