In the upcoming module of the Master in Product & Furniture Design, students at Istituto Marangoni Milano Design will have the opportunity to embark on a unique educational experience: a collaboration with Cassina, one of the most iconic brands in Italian design.
They will be guided along the way by an exceptional mentor: Elena Salmistraro, a visionary designer and refined storyteller of form.

The concept: when furniture will tell a story

The project, evocatively titled “Enchanted Poetry”, will invite students to explore the concept of animism in design.
The goal will be to create a furniture piece that goes beyond function—one that evokes emotion, tells a story, and forges human connection. An object that, in its own way, “breathes” with those who live alongside it, in harmony with Cassina’s poetic and innovative spirit.

An approach between discipline and imagination

Under the guidance of professor Lorenzo Bustillos, participants will develop projects that blend rigorous design thinking with expressive freedom, experimenting with materials, forms, and colors.
The collaboration with Cassina will offer deep insight into the core values of Italian craftsmanship—technical excellence, stylistic research, and a forward-thinking attitude.

Elena Salmistraro: empathy and vision

With her poetic touch and narrative-driven approach, Elena Salmistraro will encourage students to “listen” to objects and give voice to form.
Her role as mentor will enrich every phase of the project, offering fresh perspectives and helping each participant strengthen their personal design identity.

Projects as visual stories

Through sketches, models, renderings, and prototypes, each student will build a project conceived as a three-dimensional narrative.
The final proposals will reflect a contemporary design vision while honoring Cassina’s cultural legacy, striking a balance between function, art, and poetry.

An inspiring design ecosystem

This collaboration will represent another key moment in the educational journey at Istituto Marangoni Milano Design, reinforcing the importance of dialogue between academia, industry, and creative minds.
A dynamic ecosystem where talent, intuition, and vision come together to bring to life what we define as excellence in design.