Ruggiero Ideas - Design Voyages

-- Joe's Picks --

Here is a taste of "Best of Italian Design: Old World Charm" from my tour through the romantic city of Venice and "Best of Italian Design: The New Frontier" from design capital of the world, Milan. You'll get to experience part of the adventure now, and then look for the "Best of Italian Design" coming on HGTV in the fall.

The Palazzo Vendramen at the Cipriani Hotel, is a beautiful restoration of a 16th century Palace. The hotel, built in the 1950's by Harry Cipriani of Venice's famed Harry's Bar, boast celebrity guests, including Elizabeth Taylor and Princess Dianna.

Lovely pocket garden at the Palazzo.

In Milan, contemporary furniture designs began at Casina. It is one of the companies responsible for promoting the concept of Italian furniture throughout the world. Here is an extra wide sofa with reading table on sofa deck

20 years ago designer Antonio Citterio was considered a pioneer in Italian design. He designed everything from furniture to architecture and is still considered one of the greats in contemporary Italian design. Here are three contemporary furniture designs by Antonio Citterio at B&B Italia.

Here I am in Milan. I was very impressed with the design energy in Milan.


Here, my daughter Beth stands with Professor Lechi at the beautiful Villa Lechi, a 16th century villa in the Palladian style. Villa Lechi is located in the countryside of Erbusco, between Venice and Milan.

Best of Italian Design Page 2