THE 64TH SALONE DEL MOBILE.MILANO 2026: DESIGN AS A GLOBAL SYSTEM

Images courtesy of Salone del Mobile.Milano

Global Connections, New Curatorial Territories and an Unprecedented Openness to Contract

From 21–26 April 2026, the 64th edition of Salone del Mobile.Milano returns to Rho Fiera with a clear objective: to redefine the fair not merely as an exhibition, but as a global cultural, industrial and strategic ecosystem. With more than 1,900 exhibitors from 32 countries, 169,000 square metres of sold-out exhibition space, and a renewed openness to Contract, the Salone sets decisive coordinates for the future of design.

At the heart of the 2026 edition is connectivity—between disciplines, markets and cities. The fair strengthens its role as a driver of international exchange, cultural experimentation and business development, reaffirming Milan as the capital of contemporary design. The return of the biennials EuroCucina with FTK – Technology For the Kitchen and the International Bathroom Exhibition anchors the programme, alongside SaloneSatellite, which gathers 700 designers under 35 and 23 international schools, positioning young talent as the system’s most vital laboratory.

Maria Porro

Among the most anticipated new features is Salone Raritas (Pavilions 9–11) –read here , a curated platform dedicated to collectible design, limited editions and unique pieces. Curated by Annalisa Rosso with exhibition design by Formafantasma, it establishes a refined bridge between high craftsmanship, galleries and the professional market. In parallel, A Luxury Way (Pavilions 13–15) introduces Aurea, an Architectural Fiction—an immersive installation by Maison Numéro 20 (guided by interior architect Oscar Lucien Ono),  that imagines an experiential hotel where interior design becomes narrative, atmosphere and emotion.

Presented by Coulisse | INK

2026 also marks a pivotal step towards the launch of Salone Contract in 2027. Conceived as a long-term strategic project and developed under a masterplan by Rem Koolhaas and David Gianotten (OMA), Salone Contract responds to the growing complexity of hospitality, retail, workplace and large-scale developments. This year’s edition previews the initiative through dedicated itineraries, international forums and a keynote lecture by Koolhaas, positioning Contract as a system of integrated solutions rather than isolated products.

Formafantasma | David Gianotten | Annalisa Rosso | Oscar Lucien Ono | Rem Koolhaas | Claudio Feltrin | Marco Sabetta

Sustainability remains a concrete and measurable pillar. With the renewal of its ISO 20121 certification (2026–2028), the Salone reinforces its commitment to circular design, responsible supply chains and long-term impact. Design here is framed as a systemic process—where materials, technology, longevity and social responsibility converge.

The cultural dimension is amplified through the fourth edition of Drafting Futures. Conversations about Next Perspectives, curated by Formafantasma, alongside an expanded international programme spanning Riyadh, Hong Kong, Shanghai and New Delhi.

In Milan, the Salone extends beyond the fairgrounds: from the opening night concert at Teatro alla Scala to urban installations, design kiosks and collaborations that activate the city during Design Week.

More navigable, more international and more interconnected, Salone del Mobile.Milano 2026 reinforces its evolution into a living infrastructure—one that generates economic value, cultural discourse and future visions. In a time of global uncertainty, the Salone stands as a fixed point: where design does not simply respond to change, but actively shapes it.