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Speaking with Mario Cucinella about the 2022 Salone del Mobile and designing with nature

04 Feb, 2023 - By Okoh Hogan

The Salone del Mobile's 60th and first post-pandemic edition. After two years of setbacks and switching between digital and physical events, Milano was back in full force.

Over 262,000 visitors from all over the world attended the seven-day exhibition, which highlighted the benefits of environmental awareness by encouraging designers to adopt and uphold the principles of sustainability over the long term, support the defense of human rights, and advance ecological responsibility through design.

The centerpiece "Design With Nature" by Italian architect Mario Cucinella was one of Fiera's most eagerly awaited installations. Visitors were invited to eat, drink, speak, and work in the expansive installation, which illustrated how people might enhance their relationship with nature. 

ArchDaily got the chance to meet with the architect during Milan Design Week to learn more about the idea behind his work, the connection between Milan and Salone, and the significance of appreciating natural resources.

Cucinella discusses the meaning of the term "ecology" to his professional practice and architecture in general and how his installations respond to the query, "What does sustainability imply in an exhibition?"

The architect explains how Milan's furniture industry and manufacturing process play a significant role in the city's ongoing environmental problems and how Design with Nature provides materials and manufacturing solutions by utilizing the city as a mine.

Cucinella highlighted his most recent active national and international projects and how they also incorporate aspects of nature, along with comments regarding the occasion and installation.