For Milan Design Week 2023, Gabriel Tan has curated an exhibition set in an authentic home of a Milanese couple in Porta Venezia. This intimate setting will feature furniture by Ariake, handcrafted collectibles by Origin Made, bentwood lighting by Secto Design, Ethiopian-made rugs by Sera Helsinki, calm technology by mui, and a new headboard collaboration between Swedish luxury bed company DUXIANA and Ariake. Each brand is a master in one‘s own field but all share a common dedication to the art of making a more enjoyable way of living. We aim to surprise visitors by creating the feeling of walking into a real home during Milan Design Week, one that is eclectic and harmonious — a slow, safe haven from the frenetic pace of Salone. The exhibition features new designs by Norm Architects, Rui Alves, Staffan Holm, Philippe Malouin, Claesson Koivisto Rune, Sebastian Herkner, LauraSeppänen, Anna Pirkola, Peeta Peltola, Seppo Koho, Gabriel Tan, and artworks by Tomek Sadurski. The apartment will also host design conversations moderated by Hanna Nova Beatrice and Tony Chambers, discussing the intersection of design, craft and, technology.

WARM WELCOME

Named after the Ariake Sea in southern Japan.

Ariake means dawn in Japanese, and symbolises a new beginning for the two manufacturers Hirata Chair and Legnatec, both located in the Morodomim Saga Prefecture of Japan.

The two factories together have more than 100 years of experience, with the production of inventory according to the proud Japanese carpentry techniques and traditions. All in the finest woods, and dyed in typical Japanese colours.

With the belief that strong work relations are the foundation of a good product, international furniture designers, art directors, photographers, carpenters and craftsmen were gathered in 2016 for a workshop. Despite language barriers, they had to live, eat, work and stay together. This created collective energy, mutual understanding and trust, which have been a factor in defining the brand’s soul and creating products in the best craftsmanship, inspired by the Japanese culture.