5 must-visit places to learn about design in Milan

Welcome to the private world of the designer Achille Castiglioni, who worked in this studio for sixty years. Check out prototypes and models, drafting machines and other curiosities, and walk up to the meeting room, where you’ll find the objects that have become part of the history of design.

This historical archive, which opened to the public in 2007, is the study of one of the most representative figures in Italian and international design and architecture. The itinerary shows where the master worked and tells you more about this important Milanese architect, through 30 of his designs.

Inside the Kartell plant, which was founded to celebrate the company’s 50th anniversary, the museum occupies a 2500-square-metre area, with a permanent exhibition curated by Ferruccio Laviani, showcasing 1000 iconic objects, from 1949 to the present day. It won the 2000 Guggenheim Award as Best Business Museum. Visits: by appointment only. Free admission.

This is the headquarters of the Triennale Design Museum, on the first floor of the Palazzo dell’Arte, which was designed in 1933 by Giovanni Muzio for the International Exhibition of Decorative Arts. The exhibitions, talks and encounters with the world of art and design are always quite unique. Creative people love this place, as the exhibition galleries and bookshop always provide fresh inspiration.

The Associazione per il Disegno Industriale, which was founded in 1956, awards the ‘Compasso d’Oro’, the oldest and most prestigious prize in the industry. The complete collection, which was listed by the Ministry of Culture as having artistic and historical interest, has become part of Italy’s national heritage and will be exhibited in the new premises, the adjoining former Palazzo Enel, as soon as the restoration is completed.