The winners of the 14th edition of the SaloneSatellite Award have been announced, with four standout projects selected from over 130 entries submitted by young designers under 35. This year's theme – NUOVO ARTIGIANATO: UN MONDO NUOVO // NEW CRAFTSMANSHIP: A NEW WORLD – challenged participants to reimagine traditional techniques in ways that respond to contemporary design and sustainability concerns.
The Jury, led by Paola Antonelli, Senior Design Curator at MoMA, awarded three prizes and one special mention, recognising the designers' ability to balance innovation, cultural identity and environmental awareness. 'CRAFTSMANSHIP is essential for progress and crucial even in today's world powered by artificial intelligence and 3D printing,' Antonelli remarked. 'It is not just a way to understand the material culture of other peoples. Because it is often distilled over the centuries, it also contains ancient wisdom regarding nature and survival, thus offering proven and reliable lessons on sustainability. When materials and technologies are brand new, moreover, the ability to make by hand is essential to drive innovation.'
First Prize was awarded to Kazuki Nagasawa of Japanese studio Super Rat for the Utsuwa-Juhi Series, a collection of vases and containers crafted using bark and traditional dyeing methods. The series merges Japanese craftsmanship with ecological sensitivity, minimising environmental impact while preserving cultural heritage. 'It is impossible to remain indifferent to the beauty of an object-non object, the presence-non-presence of objects. The symbolic aspect of the most ethereal essence of design is a winner,' the Jury commented.
Second Prize went to Luis Marie, a Dutch studio, for Plissade, a freestanding textile room divider. Constructed entirely from pleated fabric without the use of binders or adhesives, the piece is a circular and tactile reinterpretation of historic furniture. The Jury praised its 'perfection of execution, reinterpretation of techniques, study of colours and tactile sensuousness, and not least the relevance of its contemporary interpretation of an antique piece of furniture.'
Third Prize was given to Riccardo Toldo of Italy for Fil Rouge, a strikingly minimal wall lamp. A near-invisible filament just 1.8 mm in diameter carries up to 1,200 lumens, referencing the mythological "red thread" that connects destinies. 'With its absolute simplicity, it restores and captures the magic of a gesture, combining design, research and inspiration,' said the Jury.
The Special Mention and Róng Design Award residency in Hangzhou, China, was presented to Juan Cortizo of Venezuela for his Quibor Project, a speaker system that reflects his deep engagement with industrial design and Venezuelan artisanal traditions. 'With its biomorphic appearance, of great expressive presence, it points to a possible new language of craft traditions,' the Jury noted.
This year's winners reflect a shared belief that the fusion of heritage craftsmanship and modern design can drive the industry toward a more sustainable and meaningful future.
More information:
Salone del Mobile.Milano
www.salonemilano.it