Alcova 2024 / Milano: A Convergence of Heritage and Contemporary Design at Villa Borsani and Villa Bagatti Valsecchi
Alcova Milano 2024 unfolds a narrative that bridges historical splendor with the avant-garde of design, set against the backdrop of two architectural marvels: Villa Borsani and Villa Bagatti Valsecchi. Located just outside Milan, these venues will host the event during Milan Design Week from April 15 to 21, 2024, offering a rare glimpse into spaces that blend the rich heritage of Milanese culture with contemporary design innovation.
Since its inception, Alcova has transcended the conventional boundaries of design fairs, morphing into a dynamic platform that showcases the pulse of contemporary creativity. Founded by curators Valentina Ciuffi and Joseph Grima, Alcova has consistently ventured into uncharted territories, transforming neglected and historical sites into vibrant arenas of design exploration. From a former abattoir to a panettone factory and a convent on Milan’s periphery, each location is chosen with the intent to foster a dialogue between the city’s architectural heritage and the future of design. Alcova’s itinerant nature culminated in its international debut at the 1950s Selena Gold Dust Motel in Miami during the prominent events Design Miami 2023 and ART BASEL / MIAMI BEACH, marking a significant milestone in its global journey.
Villa Borsani: A Modernist Gem in Varedo
Villa Borsani stands as a testament to the ingenuity of architect Osvaldo Borsani, completed in 1945 in Varedo for his family. This modernist masterpiece, now under the stewardship of the Borsani family’s second generation, houses a treasure trove of design and artistry. The villa is adorned with a Lucio Fontana fireplace, lighting fixtures by Guglielmo Ulrich, and a mosaic by Adriano Spilimbergo, alongside an array of furniture designed by Borsani himself. Serving as the headquarters for the architect’s archives, Villa Borsani offers a profound insight into the legacy of Italian design.
Villa Bagatti Valsecchi: A 19th-Century Architectural Masterpiece
A stone’s throw from Villa Borsani, Villa Bagatti Valsecchi emerges as a 19th-century architectural gem originally established as a summer retreat for the namesake Milanese family. The villa’s striking architecture, featuring a central structure flanked by two terraced wings and a portico with 15th-century columns from Milan’s Lazzaretto, encapsulates the elegance of bygone eras. Managed by Fondazione La Versiera, the villa is enveloped by lush greenery, with English gardens and a formal Italian garden, offering a serene escape into nature’s embrace.
Alcova 2024: Bridging Heritage with Contemporary Design
Alcova Milano 2024 aims to extend its mission of unveiling Milan’s hidden architectural gems, creating a symbiotic relationship between the city’s historical sites and contemporary design. By situating itself within Villa Borsani and Villa Bagatti Valsecchi, Alcova not only pays homage to Milan’s rich cultural tapestry but also propels the discourse on the future of design. These venues will serve as a canvas for emerging and independent designers and brands, providing a snapshot of the evolving trends and innovative approaches within the creative industries.
The selection of Villa Borsani and Villa Bagatti Valsecchi as the venues for Alcova Milano 2024 is a deliberate choice, reflecting the fair’s dedication to exploring the nexus between architectural heritage and design innovation. This year’s edition underscores Alcova’s commitment to offering access to spaces that are usually concealed from public view, enabling a broader audience to engage with Milan’s architectural and design legacy.
An Unmissable Opportunity for Design Aficionados
Alcova Milano 2024 promises to be an unparalleled event for design enthusiasts, scholars, professionals, and the curious alike. It presents an unrivaled opportunity to delve into the heart of contemporary design trends, set within the context of Milan’s storied architectural landscape. As visitors traverse the spaces of Villa Borsani and Villa Bagatti Valsecchi, they will encounter a curated selection of design works that challenge conventions and offer new perspectives on living and making in the 21st century.
The event is not only a celebration of design but also an invitation to reflect on the role of historical spaces in contemporary cultural discourse. Alcova Milano 2024 is poised to foster a dialogue that transcends time, inviting participants to ponder the intersections of history, architecture, and design in shaping our understanding of space and place.
Practical Information for Visitors
Alcova Milano 2024 will take place from April 15 to 21, 2024, at Villa Borsani and Villa Bagatti Valsecchi in Varedo, MB. The event offers a unique occasion to explore the convergence of historical architecture and cutting-edge design. Detailed information about the event, including directions, programming, and participating designers, can be found on the official Alcova website: alcova.xyz.
As Alcova Milano 2024 approaches, the anticipation builds for what promises to be a groundbreaking edition, further cementing Alcova’s status as a pivotal platform in the international design landscape. This event not only showcases the vibrancy of contemporary design but also highlights the enduring beauty and relevance of Milan’s architectural heritage, inviting a global audience to witness the dynamic dialogue between past and future.
For those eager to immerse themselves in this unparalleled design experience, reaching Alcova 2024 is a breeze. Visitors can enjoy a simple 25-minute metropolitan railway journey from Milan’s city centre, utilizing the S2 and S4 lines, with trains departing every 15 minutes. For further convenience, transfers to other Metro lines are available at several key stations: Cadorna (M1, M2), Porta Venezia (M2), Porta Garibaldi (M2, 5), Repubblica (M3), and Dateo (M4). This seamless connectivity ensures that accessing the historical elegance of Villa Borsani and Villa Bagatti Valsecchi, the main venues of Alcova 2024, is straightforward for all attendees, making the journey an integral part of the Alcova experience.
