Magistretti and Castiglioni Foundations
Master of Arts students in Design Innovation explored the historic studios of two Milanese design legends.
Students from Domus Academy’s Master of Arts programme in Design Innovation recently enjoyed exclusive access to two cornerstone institutions of Italian design: the Vico Magistretti Foundation and the Achille Castiglioni Foundation, both in Milan. This hands-on learning experience gave them direct insight into the creative processes, design methodologies, and innovative spirit of these two masters.
Established in 2010, the Vico Magistretti Foundation safeguards the studio and archives of the architect and designer, whose career spanned over six decades. Now a studio-museum, the space houses original drawings, sketches, photographs, models, and documents that provide an intimate look at Magistretti’s creative mind and design approach. Students explored his workspace, discovered his design philosophy, and saw firsthand how he seamlessly blended innovation with functionality in everyday objects. The Foundation also hosts exhibitions, workshops, and educational programmes that bring the experience to life for students and design lovers alike.
Founded in 2011, the Achille Castiglioni Foundation preserves the legendary Milanese designer’s historic studio. The tour features prototypes, models, iconic lamps, and household objects that reveal Castiglioni’s creative genius and groundbreaking approach to industrial and domestic design. Students got up close with Castiglioni’s original work and gained insight into how experimentation and function drove every project. The Foundation also offers guided tours, workshops, and rotating exhibitions that enhance the learning experience.
This field trip brings classroom learning to life while providing crucial historical and cultural context for developing creative and design skills. Stepping into the studios and archives of Magistretti and Castiglioni means witnessing the evolution of Italian design and understanding the choices that transformed these objects and spaces into internationally acclaimed masterpieces.
The visit to the Magistretti and Castiglioni Foundations bridges history, innovation, and education – an essential experience for anyone studying design and innovation at Domus Academy, deepening our students’ professional expertise and design sensibility.
FAQ – Frequent questions
1. What did Domus Academy Design Innovation students visit?
Master of Arts students in Design Innovation visited the Vico Magistretti Foundation and the Achille Castiglioni Foundation in Milan, exploring the historic studios and archives of these two Italian design masters.
2. What can visitors see at the Vico Magistretti Foundation?
The Foundation, established in 2010, houses Magistretti’s studio-museum with original drawings, sketches, photographs, models, and documents from his 60-year career. It also offers exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs.
3. What does the Achille Castiglioni Foundation showcase?
Founded in 2011, the Foundation preserves Castiglioni’s historic studio, featuring prototypes, models, iconic lamps, and household objects that demonstrate his innovative approach to industrial and domestic design.
4. Why is this visit important for design students?
The visit provides hands-on learning that connects classroom theory with design history, allowing students to understand the creative processes and design choices that made these works internationally recognized masterpieces.