Podcast Summary: The Grand Tourist with Dan Rubinstein
Episode: Postcard from Milan: The Monk Returns
Release Date: April 9, 2025

Introduction

In the April 9, 2025 episode of The Grand Tourist, host and design journalist Dan Rubenstein takes listeners on an immersive journey through Milan, one of the world’s epicenters for design and creativity. Titled "Postcard from Milan: The Monk Returns," the episode delves into the vibrant atmosphere of Milan Design Week and the prestigious Salone del Mobile Trade Fair. Rubenstein engages in insightful conversations with key figures from Molteni & C., including Giulia Molteni and Marco Matturo of Studio Class, exploring the brand's rich heritage, latest innovations, and the design trends shaping 2025.

Palazzo Molteni: A New Beacon of Italian Design

Dan Rubenstein opens the episode by introducing the newly inaugurated Palazzo Molteni, the flagship headquarters of Molteni & C., designed by acclaimed designer Vincent Van Duysen. Giulia Molteni, head of communications for Molteni, provides an in-depth look at the Palazzo Molteni, highlighting its architectural significance and its role as a rotational exhibition center for art, design, architecture, and photography.

Giulia Molteni [02:57]: "Palazzo Montaigni is a historic residence that now tells the story of Molteni & C., representing a significant step forward in our group’s international growth strategy."

The Palazzo serves not only as a corporate headquarters but also as a cultural hub, fostering new dialogues between different creative disciplines. Van Duysen’s design seamlessly blends historical architecture with contemporary elements, embodying the brand’s commitment to luxurious yet understated aesthetics.

Reimagining Classic Designs: The Monk Chair

A focal point of the discussion is the reintroduction of the Monk chair, a classic piece from the 1970s originally designed by Toby Escarpa. Giulia Molteni shares the nostalgic and familial connections behind the chair’s revival, emphasizing its timeless appeal and modern reinterpretation.

Giulia Molteni [06:25]: "The Monk chair was designed in 1973 by Tobias Escarpa for our family country house. It had a brutalist design that now perfectly aligns with Van Duysen’s contemporary vision."

The Monk chair, available in seven different colors and two structural finishes (black oak or coffee oak), epitomizes the 70s resurgence in design, marked by bold colors and a blend of rich materials. This revival is part of Molteni’s 2025 collection, which draws inspiration from the brand’s archives, particularly the vibrant and optimistic design ethos of the 70s and 80s.

Giulia Molteni [07:15]: "The 70s are making a comeback because of the bold, expressive style and the sense of warmth and optimism that characterize that era. We believe the Monk chair remains very modern today, embodying innovation with rich materials and vibrant colors."

Milan Design Week 2025: Trends and Inspirations

Giulia Molteni discusses the overarching themes of Milan Design Week 2025, highlighting a shift from minimalism to more warm and domestically inspired interiors. This year's trends emphasize a blend of historical and contemporary elements, with increased use of boiserie, textured fabrics, and vibrant colors that evoke a nostalgic yet fresh aesthetic.

Giulia Molteni [08:24]: "There is a great exposure of the old masters more than before. Companies like Prada are looking into the great masters of the 60s, driven by a nostalgic sense of quality from the past that continues to inspire today."

The conversation underscores a transition period in design, moving from the stark lines of modernism to the richer textures and colors of postmodernism, reflecting a broader cultural shift towards warmth and expressiveness in living spaces.

Collaborations and Innovations: Studio Class and Uniphor

The episode transitions to an in-depth discussion with Marco Matturo, a principal at Studio Class, a dynamic design firm collaborating with Molteni & C.’s sister brand, Uniphor. Marco and his partner, Alessio, share their journey from university projects to influential roles in contemporary design. They discuss their innovative approach to blending Italian minimalism with advanced technology, particularly in creating adaptive workspaces that respond to modern needs.

Alessio [16:27]: "We consider AI more as a collaborator for brainstorming, opening new directions and possibilities that we might not discover on our own."

Their collaboration with Uniphor began in 2017, leading to the development of versatile office solutions that have become increasingly relevant in the post-COVID era. Studio Class’s installations, such as the conceptual apartment at the Museo Polli Pizzoli, exemplify their ability to merge functionality with aesthetic elegance, honoring Milan’s design heritage while pushing boundaries.

Installation at Museo Polli Pizzoli: Letters to Milano

Marco Matturo elaborates on Studio Class’s installation at the Museo Polli Pizzoli, a significant cultural venue in Milan. The installation, titled "Letters to Milano," features a diorama-like conceptual apartment that blurs the lines between private and public spaces. This creative endeavor pays homage to Milan’s architectural legacy, showcasing designs from renowned architects like Gio Ponti and Aldo Rossi through multimedia platforms.

Alessio [26:12]: "There is a sort of voyeuristic aspect to the installation, allowing people to peek into a domestic space while also engaging with the broader architectural narrative of Milan."

The installation leverages interactive elements, such as metal wire constructs and digital screens, to create an environment that is both immersive and reflective of Milan’s design ethos. This project highlights the synergy between Molteni & C. and Studio Class, celebrating the city’s rich artistic and architectural heritage.

Local Recommendations: Milan’s Culinary and Cultural Gems

Adding a personal touch, the guests share their favorite spots in Milan for experiencing local cuisine and culture. Giulia Molteni recommends Venchi for exquisite gelato and souvenirs, La Specialità for pizza, and Nina, a newly opened Peruvian restaurant in Milan. For aperitivo and cocktails, she suggests Loubara at Gamma, which hosts a beautiful exhibition curated by Caroline Corbett featuring the works of Hugo Rondinone.

Giulia Molteni [10:36]: "I love Nina, the new Peruvian restaurant in Milan. It’s a fantastic place to explore new flavors."

These recommendations provide listeners with a glimpse into the vibrant lifestyle that complements Milan’s renowned design scene, emphasizing the city’s blend of tradition and modernity.

Conclusion

Dan Rubenstein wraps up the episode by thanking Giulia Molteni and Marco Matturo for their contributions and insights. He emphasizes the ongoing collaboration between Molteni & C. and Studio Class, highlighting how their partnership continues to influence and shape the future of Italian design.

Dan Rubenstein [27:09]: "Thank you to my guests Giulia and Marco, and to everyone at Molteni & C. for making this episode happen."

Listeners are encouraged to visit the Grand Tourist website, subscribe to the newsletter, and follow Dan Rubenstein on social media for more curated tours through the worlds of fashion, art, architecture, food, and travel.

Key Takeaways

• Palazzo Molteni serves as a new cultural hub for Molteni & C., blending historical architecture with contemporary design.
• The Monk chair from the 1970s has been revamped, reflecting a resurgence of 70s design trends characterized by bold colors and rich materials.
• Milan Design Week 2025 showcases a transition from minimalism to warmer, more textured interiors, inspired by the nostalgia of past design masters.
• Studio Class and Uniphor collaboration highlights innovative workspace designs that adapt to modern, post-pandemic needs, integrating Italian minimalism with advanced technology.
• The Letters to Milano installation at Museo Polli Pizzoli pays homage to Milan’s architectural heritage through interactive and immersive design.
• Milan offers a rich culinary and cultural landscape, with standout spots like Venchi, La Specialità, Nina, and Loubara at Gamma enhancing the city’s vibrant lifestyle.

Notable Quotes:

• Giulia Molteni [02:57]: "Palazzo Montaigni is a historic residence that now tells the story of Molteni & C., representing a significant step forward in our group’s international growth strategy."
• Giulia Molteni [07:15]: "The 70s are making a comeback because of the bold, expressive style and the sense of warmth and optimism that characterize that era. We believe the Monk chair remains very modern today, embodying innovation with rich materials and vibrant colors."
• Alessio [16:27]: "We consider AI more as a collaborator for brainstorming, opening new directions and possibilities that we might not discover on our own."
• Alessio [26:12]: "There is a sort of voyeuristic aspect to the installation, allowing people to peek into a domestic space while also engaging with the broader architectural narrative of Milan."
• Dan Rubenstein [27:09]: "Thank you to my guests Giulia and Marco, and to everyone at Molteni & C. for making this episode happen."

This episode of The Grand Tourist offers a comprehensive exploration of Milan’s dynamic design scene, celebrating both its storied past and its innovative present. Whether you’re a design aficionado or simply curious about Milanese culture, Rubenstein’s guided tour provides valuable insights and inspiration.