The chance to see inside some of Milan’s beautiful hidden spaces is one of the biggest draws of the largest design event in the world. At Milan Design Week 2025, visitors will make a beeline for the third edition of L’Appartamento by Artemest, which will repeat its winning formula of transforming a historic venue with a series of evocative room sets.
Founded in 2015 by Marco Credendino and Ippolita Rostagno, online gallery Artemest showcases the finest Italian crafts in every imaginable style and medium, from furniture and lighting to tableware and artworks. In recent years, its L’Appartamento project has emerged as a visionary method of celebrating this unique heritage, and this time around, it has a special significance as Artemest marks its tenth anniversary.
The setting for the 2025 exhibition is Palazzo Donizetti, an elegant 19th-century masterpiece that fuses architectural codes: Renaissance grace, Baroque opulence and touches of Liberty style are all to be found within its walls, alongside ornate frescoes and a monumental elliptical staircase with a wrought-iron balustrade. The latter will be central to the design journey that L’Appartamento presents.
As in previous years, Artemest has invited six globally acclaimed design studios to participate in the event. Using curated selections of the brand’s products, each designer will transform a different room in the palazzo, creating a unique interplay between its antique interiors and contemporary style. Altogether, over 180 Italian artisans and artists will be represented.
Visitors will ascend the imposing staircase to discover the palazzo’s reimagined rooms. The tour begins with The Foyer by leading Australian stylist Simone Haag, whose love of melding vintage and modern pieces is on show in a space that features bold compositions and colourful accents. These form a harmonious dialogue with the room’s delicate frescoes and decorative ceiling.
Next comes Riyadh interior designer Nebras Ajloaib, another creative who loves to combine old and new in unexpected ways. She is designing The Reading Room & Studio, an inviting space that will occupy one of the palazzo’s high-ceilinged classical rooms. Filled with bold, modern pieces designed for leisurely reading and contemplation, it should be one of the more restful moments in the exhibition.
Set in a huge curved chamber, The Grand Salon takes inspiration from ancient myth and contemporary design to create a space filled with mystery. This room is designed by multidisciplinary New York studio Meyer Davis, led by Will Meyer and Gray Davis, which is known for its ability to infuse interiors with an air of effortless luxury.
Forming a dynamic contrast is The Dining Room by LA firm Romanek Design Studio. Founder Brigette Romanek’s mission to create “moving, magical spaces” is embodied in this energising interior, which employs a sophisticated mix of textures and materials to conjure the convivial atmosphere of Italian dining. Set in a long banqueting chamber with exquisite parquet floors, it promises intriguing perspectives from every angle.
Similarly stimulating is The Entertainment Room, a modish interpretation of the 19th-century salon concept, here influenced by today’s prestigious members’ clubs. Designed by 1508 London, known worldwide for its exceptional residential and hotel interiors, this colourful room is intended to foster connection and creativity.
Last but not least is The Bedroom, which has been entrusted to New York designer Alexandra Champalimaud of Champalimaud Design. Envisioned as an artistic retreat, her immersive space features a hand-painted botanical panoramic wallpaper alongside plump seating, colourful glassware and contemporary sculptures. Set aside half a day to explore this must-see Milan Design Week 2025 event at your leisure. artemest.com
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