Ruffino, a renowned Italian winery, aimed to elevate its brand by participating in Milan Design Week (April 15-21, 2024), one of the world’s most prestigious design events that annually gathers the best in art, architecture, and design from across the globe. The event was hosted at the historic Dazi di Milano, near the iconic Arco della Pace, a symbolic gateway in the heart of the city, providing a striking backdrop for the fusion of design and culture.

The event, titled “ORObyRUFFINO”, beautifully showcased the synergy between design, fine wine, and Italian craftsmanship through six distinct art installations. At its core was an immersive lighting design concept inspired by Ruffino’s *Riserva Ducale Oro Gran Selezione*. The lighting transformed the spaces, making the Dazi di Levante and Dazi di Ponente resemble a “treasure chest” from which radiant golden light flowed, symbolizing the prestige and heritage of Ruffino’s most celebrated wine.

A key feature of the event’s design was the manipulation of natural light. Large windows at the venue were treated with specially selected filters and laminations, turning sunlight into a warm, golden glow that filled the space. The filtered light reflected off various materials, creating shimmering reflections and shadows that generated a dynamic and vibrant environment. This interplay between light and shadow evoked the illusion of gold, heightening the venue’s sense of luxury and richness.

The “Infinity Room” was one of the standout features, an entirely mirrored space surrounding a Riserva Ducale Oro bottle. Using mirrors, amber-colored films, and scenographic lighting from a zenithal source that moved almost imperceptibly, the room transformed into an “infinite mirror.” This design reflected the light and highlighted the star of the show: the wine bottle.

Scenographic lighting controlled by DMX systems added more drama, with choreographed light movements emphasizing the treasure chest concept and enriching the atmosphere. At Dazio di Levante, artists like Filippo Carandini and Chiara Lorenzetti presented works that explored personal interpretations of “gold.” The combination of museum-style lighting for the artwork and dynamic lighting for the arches gave the space a glowing, ethereal quality. The lighting design’s focal point was a large installation called “7 Suns”, which illuminated the arches and vaulted ceilings with choreographed waves of light, adding depth to the golden theme.

The lighting design continued into a private dinner, prepared by Michelin-starred chef Vito Mollica, where soft ambient lighting created an intimate and elegant atmosphere. At Dazio di Ponente, collaborations with La Manufacture, Dedar, and Ginori 1735 were enhanced by golden lighting effects. The event concluded with a vibrant Golden Party, where lighting synchronized with the music of DJs La Stryxia and Scilla, celebrating both Ruffino’s legacy and the energy of Milan Design Week 2024.


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