Ephemeral Architectures

The culture of impermanence stems from the Baroque tradition of creating temporary installations. Rome, as the papal city, was famous as far back as the Renaissance for its backdrops, masterfully designed by architects in the service of the popes and created to welcome kings and ambassadors visiting the Eternal City (see Michel de Montaigne’s *Journal de Voyage*, 1581). Genoa, Venice, Florence and the great European capitals were no less impressive, including London, famous for its graceful (and surprising) scenic backdrops from the Elizabethan era. The concept of ephemeral architecture has gained increasing importance in the contemporary world as a predominant design and philosophical practice, and as a discipline capable of combining the craftsmanship and industrial techniques of ‘Made in Italy’. For architects, creating installations for an international event – such as those organised by INTERNI during the FuoriSalone – represents a significant challenge and an opportunity to engage with experimental projects, creating temporary works that make a powerful impact on the public. This impermanence is also evident in the production of temporary exhibitions, where the scenography often becomes the primary means of communication for the entire exhibition. The ephemeral quality is therefore central to the displays in design showrooms, where architects and art directors create skilful, theatrical settings to reinforce the image of the brand they are representing. It will also provide an opportunity to present “Milano Design Hub & Spoke” (Mondadori Electa, 2026), the monograph produced by INTERNI magazine and dedicated to the city that is the global epicentre of ‘Made in Italy’ design, which has spread throughout the world thanks to prestigious flagship stores and international contract projects. This event is organised by ICI London and INTERNI Magazine. Supported by ITA – Italian Trade Agency London Office, Gruppo Mondandori Special thanks to Bottega Bogna Please Note Doors open at 6.00 PM. A valid identity document will be required for the security checks at the entrance to Casa Italia. Entrance after the starting time will not be allowed. Please contact rsvp.interni@mondadori.it and press.icilondon@esteri.it for more information