Milano & Design Opens its New Home in BGC

For a brand rooted in heritage, material integrity, and an unwavering identity, there’s absolutely no need to be driven by fleeting trends and compromised quality. For Milano & Design, this philosophy forms the very foundation of its existence. This commitment was palpable as the brand recently celebrated the grand opening of its new, elegant showroom in Uptown Mall, Bonifacio Global City, offering a tangible legacy of authentic Italian craftsmanship refined over more than 70 years.

An Italian Legacy, Perfected in Milan

Speaking with M&D Principal, Mattia Zanini, it becomes clear that the brand’s approach is a direct inheritance from its formidable Italian origins. For Zanini, a critical distinction must be made. While “Made in Italy” is a global benchmark, the brand’s specific heritage is rooted in Milan—a city synonymous with the pinnacle of design and fashion.

The brand’s lineage traces back to one of Italy’s most renowned sofa manufacturers, the Milan-based Chateau d’Ax, founded in 1948. “We don’t follow the trends,” Zanini explains. “We just carry our knowledge and know-how from Italy to Asia, and we try to transfer our experiences and our taste on design.” This speaks to a Milanese design sensibility passed down through generations.

To cater specifically to the dynamic Asian market, Milano & Design was born from a strategic vision: to bring the entire ecosystem of Chateau d’Ax’s Italian expertise to a state-of-the-art facility in Asia. Zanini clarifies that the furniture is handmade in China, a decision made to better serve the region’s needs. However, he is emphatic that there is absolutely no compromise in quality.

The brand has created a unique model that marries Italian leadership with local artisanal skill. “Most of our materials come from Italy, including the leather and some mechanism for the recliner system and some kind of foam,” he details. The profound focus on provenance and process ensures every piece meets the exacting standards set in Milan. It is a fusion of the “experience of Italian people with the hand working of Chinese artisans,” resulting in furniture that is both authentically Italian in spirit and perfectly suited for the contemporary Asian market.

The Beauty of Authenticity

At the core of this identity is an uncompromising reverence for their primary material: authentic Italian leather. The integrity of a Milano & Design piece is felt in its details. The brand eschews common industry shortcuts, focusing instead on a meticulous and transparent process. Zanini emphasizes that the journey of the material is paramount, with rawhides sourced from South America and Northern Europe before being brought to Italy exclusively for tanning.

This crucial stage is where the brand’s values truly shine. Zanini is firm that they avoid chemical solvents like Chrome, adhering to strict European rules to protect consumer health. More importantly, he notes, “we use only natural leather.” The selection of these premium leathers provides a tactile richness and a durability that makes each piece a sound investment for high-end homes and luxury projects alike.

A dedication to natural processes means the leather is allowed to retain its authentic character. Zanini explains that what might be perceived as an imperfection is merely proof of the material’s history. “But that’s the specific beauty of natural leather,” he concludes. This philosophy transforms each sofa into a unique piece, designed not to resist age but to embrace it, developing a rich patina over time. “Think about [a] sofa like a small investment,” Zanini advises, one that won’t be thrown away in a few years when the leather is damaged.

Expert upholstery ensures not only immediate comfort but also enduring form and structure, promising longevity that defies trends. While deeply rooted in this artisanal tradition, the brand thoughtfully adapts to modern life by creating more compact forms for urban spaces and integrating technology where it genuinely enhances the user experience.

Ultimately, the brand’s ambition transcends a simple transaction. Zanini outlines a three-step philosophy for building a lasting brand presence. The first step is the initial sale. The second, more important step is when that customer returns, signifying trust. But Zanini explains that the brand’s final goal in the Philippine market is reached when a customer, having already built trust through a purchase, goes on to recommend the brand to their personal network. For him, this act of genuine advocacy is the true sign that Milano & Design has successfully established itself as a brand.

Backing this long-term vision is an impressive quality record. With a claim percentage of just 1.2%—significantly lower than the industry average—it’s clear their meticulous focus on materials and craftsmanship is effective. 

Experience the tangible difference of authentic Italian craftsmanship firsthand. Visit the new Milano & Design showroom at the 3rd Floor of Uptown Mall, Bonifacio Global City. For more information, visit their official website at www.milanoanddesign.com and follow their journey on Instagram @milanoanddesignphilippines.

Photographed by Ed Simon.

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