Milan to Matisse: Bringing the Conversations of Milan Design Week to New Zealand

Held in our Auckland showroom, the event celebrated 60 years of B&B Italia while exploring the themes emerging from Salone del Mobile 2026 through the perspective of B&B Italia's Wanda Rottstegge, Wholesale Director of North Asia & Pacific.

Rather than focusing solely on new products, the discussion explored a broader question: Where is design heading?

One of the strongest themes to emerge from Milan was the idea of Fluid Living.

As homes continue to evolve into places for work, relaxation, entertainment and wellbeing, furniture is becoming increasingly adaptable. Modular systems, intelligent storage and flexible environments reflected a growing desire for interiors that can change alongside the people who inhabit them. Rather than designing rooms with a single purpose, contemporary living increasingly demands spaces that respond to changing routines throughout the day and across different stages of life. 

Rather than designing rooms with a single purpose, contemporary living increasingly demands spaces that respond to changing routines throughout the day and across different stages of life.

Another recurring conversation was the changing definition of luxury.

Rather than excess, many of the world's leading brands are placing greater emphasis on longevity, craftsmanship and sustainability. Circular design, responsible material selection and products built to last for generations have become central to contemporary luxury, without compromising comfort or quality. This philosophy has long been part of B&B Italia's approach, where research, manufacturing innovation and enduring design continue to underpin every collection.

Among the hundreds of installations throughout Milan, one observation stood out.

Many showrooms presented highly styled lifestyle environments where individual pieces risked becoming secondary to the overall setting. In contrast, B&B Italia adopted a deliberately restrained, gallery-like presentation that placed the focus firmly on the furniture, the materials and the designers behind each collection. It was a reminder that exceptional design does not need elaborate storytelling to justify itself. Sometimes, the object itself says enough.

While Milan often feels a world away, many of this year's themes are directly relevant to New Zealand projects.

Demand for adaptable homes, timeless furniture and sustainable materials continues to grow, while luxury is increasingly defined by quality, longevity and thoughtful design rather than decoration. As wellness-focused homes and retreats become more prominent, outdoor living, natural materials and enduring craftsmanship are expected to play an even greater role in future residential projects.

Milan to Matisse reflects Matisse's commitment to sharing more than products.

By bringing international design conversations to New Zealand, we hope to provide architects, designers and homeowners with a deeper understanding of the ideas shaping contemporary interiors—and why they matter.

Because the best design is not simply seen. It is understood.