In Northern Italy, a unique skyline emerges, combining the aesthetics of history and tradition with the innovations of modernity. Milan reveals itself through Stefano Boeri’s Vertical Forest and Rem Koolhaas’s Fondazione Prada, along with the imposing Milan Cathedral and the grand iron-and-glass dome of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. But the true essence of the metropolis lies hidden behind the façades of the striking buildings. Whether that means the interior-design creations displayed at the plentiful design fairs or Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece the Last Supper, housed in Santa Maria delle Grazie, Milan requires a local guide to comprehend all of its secrets and treasures. Author Massimo Nava and photographer Oberto Gili are happy to oblige.The magnificence of Milan is a reflection of its inhabitants: the designers, architects, artists and restaurateurs who lend their own brand of style to the city. In Milan Chic, readers are taken on an intimate tour, making stops at the homes of sought-after designers, the studios of gifted artists and the headquarters of prominent architects. This book illustrates the allure of this elegant industrial and cultural center.
Author
Text by Massimo Nava, photography by Oberto Gili
Brand: Assouline
A WORD FROM THE FOUNDERSWe created this company to be the first luxury brand on culture. We wanted to supply everything for a contemporary library; we started working with top perfumers for scented candles, with Goyard for a book trunk, with Chanel on a quilted leather slipcase, and so on. Now we are expanding the Assouline lifestyle brand in stores in the most important cities of the world. We love and believe in books more than everything else, but we also want to extend our vision to create all that can be expected in a chic and personalized library, from beautiful books and special editions to luxury gift items, unique library accessories, and now a complete turnkey collection of stylish furniture. Our digital world goes faster than ever and nothing remains of it, but books are the solid part of our past and present. They also are beauty. For us, books are a matter of intellect and emotion, of heritage and innovation. Because information is not only about today, and the past is a sensational source of inspiration.-Prosper & Martine AssoulineTHE BRANDFounded in Paris in 1994 by Prosper and Martine Assouline, Assouline is the first luxury brand on culture. It began with the desire to create a new, contemporary style of book, using the couple's experienced eye for visually rich stories and compelling narratives.Guided by their passion for knowledge, culture and travel, the Assoulines have since expanded their vision to 1,700 titles in three main collections, along with special editions and unique library accessories—a grand oeuvre of inspiring creations. Throughout the last quarter of a century, the brand has established a network of international boutiques in prominent locations across the globe. Assouline has also inaugurated a curated library service, working closely with clients to visualize, design, and develop bespoke, one-of-a-kind libraries.With a distinguished team of creative talents—which includes the founders' son Alexandre—the brand continues to reinvent the notion of true luxury. Assouline’s roster of collaborators includes some of the world’s most respected brands, artists, photographers, writers and designers.Assouline continues to exude an unparalleled signature style and elegant savoir faire, which has globally redefined modern publishing.