A pasta-shaped daybed and speakers inspired by Saturn’s rings capture attention with their unique creations at the Contemporary Design Selections, part of the Lake Como Design Festival. The eighth edition, curated by Giovanna Massoni, focuses on the theme of “Borders,” encouraging participating designers, architects, and makers to consider boundaries in design form and function.
Located at Villa Saporiti, this exhibition marks the first public showcase in this neoclassical masterpiece, featuring 57 projects by creatives from 30 countries. Each is a testament to the artistic exploration of boundaries with creative innovations.
Delve further into the concept of boundary-breaking design as Milanese designers push the limits with sensor-embedded porcelain and reactive light, exploring the crossroads of technology and dinnerware.
Exceptional and Cutting-Edge Designs on Display
Fur by Studio Bjorn Verlinde
The Belgium-based Studio Bjorn Verlinde presents its minimalist Fur seating and table collection. Designed for those who love to move, this series includes a backless rocking chair with a curved aluminium base, complemented by a brown leather seat and mirrored table surface showcasing pioneering craftsmanship.
Lights in Tension by Massimo Rigaglia
Massimo Rigaglia, a Milan-based designer, showcases his Lights in Tension collection. Crafted from flexible bamboo strips kept in shape by leather cords, this piece stands out with its curved structure and a brass base that champions fragility as a visual theme, embodying cutting-edge design.
BR Collection by Studio Alessandra Hofmann
The BR Collection by Studio Alessandra Hofmann takes cues from brutalist architecture. These coffee tables, made of travertine and cast glass, exhibit experimental material reactions like bubbles and open pores, enhancing their distinct appeal with creative artistry.
Saturnia by ArmoniusLab
ArmoniusLab, led by Elia Dusi, debuts Saturnia speakers. Featuring acid-treated iron that mimics Saturn’s rings, these speakers rest on the floor, projecting sound in a dispersed manner for a unique listening experience, all thanks to their inventive design.
Tattile by Studio YellowDot x Artisia
Presented by Studio YellowDot in collaboration with Artisia, this daybed mimics pasta’s shape. 3D-printed from wood fibre and bioplastic, it bridges the gap between food technology and design with its ribbed, hollow form, exemplifying innovative design.
The Long Take by The Happy Few
Textile studio The Happy Few introduces a 10-meter-long wool rug designed to mimic the experience of street walking. Its dynamic color transitions chart seasonal changes, moving from grey blues to warm earth tones with truly original designs.
For more breathtaking architectural innovation, discover how flowing brick designs redefine structures worldwide, offering seamless integration with natural surroundings.
Claustra by Whats Wrong Duo
Whats Wrong Duo explores nature’s soft lines in the Claustra room divider. The piece uses aluminum and ceramic in brown, purple, cream, and grey, with custom glazes depicting a union between function and artistic expression through cutting-edge design.
The photography is by Sophie Chapman.
The Contemporary Design Selection is open from September 12 to 20, 2026. Check the Dezeen Events Guide for more on global architecture and design exhibitions.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the theme of the Lake Como Design Festival?
The theme of the Lake Como Design Festival is ‘Borders,’ which encourages designers, architects, and makers to consider boundaries in design form and function.
What is unique about the Saturnia speakers by ArmoniusLab?
The Saturnia speakers by ArmoniusLab feature acid-treated iron that mimics Saturn’s rings, and they project sound in a dispersed manner for a unique listening experience thanks to their inventive design.
What innovative material is used in the Tattile daybed?
The Tattile daybed is 3D-printed from wood fibre and bioplastic, bridging the gap between food technology and design with its ribbed, hollow form.