Every year in April there is the world famous furniture design fair Salone Internazionale del Mobile in Milano. It’s a fair that showcases the newest and coolest in furniture and houseware design from countries around the world.
The entire city is transformed into a design wonderland. If you stroll around certain neighbourhoods (Brera, Tortona and Naviglio to name a few) you’ll find old factories converted into showrooms full of the world’s most innovative new designs. You’ll also stumble upon smaller, more intimiate design spaces which are located in old stone houses with vaulted ceiling or even car garages that are completey made over to exhibit anything from carpets to garden furniture.
The streets are packed full of people and there’s a really amazing atmosphere everywhere you go. If you pop by on the Friday or Saturday evening there are many VIP parties, impromptu music concerts in the streets and beautifully clothed people everywhere. We take our kids every year and they really love it. There is so much to see, sit on, play with and learn about.
One of the many warehouses that are transformed into an exhibition space.
I really fell in love with this bird feeder by designer Frederik Roije
The famous kitchen in a crate. You can push all the pieces in and close the lid. The epitome of space-saver furniture design.
I agree with Ron Arad. We have to let our children get bored. It almost always results in the most fabulous creations. That dreaded “Mom, I’m bored” could actually be the start to something beautiful.
The e-bay building. Is there anything happier than a kitchen that is almost entirely yellow?
A hot tub that will heat your wok/frying pan for dinner then chop your wood? Yes please.
The new version of the exercise bike that you use for a few weeks then retire to the corner of your bedroom.
Il Salone Internazionale del Mobile di Milano 2013 will be held from April 9-14th (according to several online sites…dates not guaranteed).
Jillian In Italy 
Amazing! How lucky you are to get to see all of that!
That yellow kitchen is to die for although the exercise bike is just scary.
These things are so cool! I like the hot tub and bird feeder best.