Kiton Donna ShowroomCommercial Projects
Milano 2017-2018
History and Context: Kiton Donna in the Heart of Brera
In the vibrant heart of Brera, within the iconic Palazzo Kiton, the very first Kiton Donna showroom comes to life, designed by Francesco Della Femina. Once a warehouse, the space is transformed into an elegant and expressive showcase. The building’s layered history—from Gondrand depot to Ferré’s fashion temple—meets the refined identity of Kiton. This project not only enhances architectural heritage but reinterprets it with a contemporary, sophisticated touch. An environment that speaks of legacy and vision, perfectly tailored to the timeless elegance of the Kiton brand.
The Design Challenge: Functionality Meets Privacy
Long and narrow, with windows facing the lively Via Fiori Chiari, the showroom posed two major challenges: privacy and multi-user functionality. Francesco Della Femina addressed both with a custom-made spatial strategy—bespoke partitions that create distinct workstations while keeping the overall flow fluid and elegant. The result is a perfectly balanced layout that accommodates simultaneous meetings with buyers in a setting that feels both dynamic and discreet. A masterclass in turning constraints into opportunities for refined, purposeful design.
A Journey Through Design and Visual Rhythm
The layout unfolds like a runway, guiding models from the fitting room through the central corridor to a communal hall, subtly elevated to host presentations. Along the path, custom partitions wrapped in fabric-like wallpaper feature playful circular openings in varied sizes—a “perlage” that creates a lively rhythm of perspectives and light. Strategic mirrors amplify the effect, generating a sense of movement and depth throughout the space. The design becomes an immersive experience, where every angle surprises and every detail is in dialogue with fashion.
Light as a Design Element
Natural light is carefully shaped into a soft, atmospheric presence. To address privacy concerns, filtering curtains with generous drapery are installed across the windows, transforming harsh daylight into a delicate glow. Meanwhile, the solid sections of the southern wall are clad in a custom wallpaper that mimics the folds and textures of the fabric, extending the visual language of the drapery across the entire space. Light becomes more than illumination—it becomes a material in itself, orchestrating mood, elegance, and spatial harmony.
Bespoke Furnishings: The Designer’s Signature Touch
Francesco Della Femina not only designed the space but also created most of the furnishings within it—tailor-made pieces that seamlessly echo the brand’s refined identity. From hanging systems and mirrors to select seating elements, each item was conceived as an extension of the overall concept. This attention to craftsmanship and cohesion gives the showroom a unique personality: refined, purposeful, and unmistakably Kiton. A space where every element speaks the language of sartorial precision and timeless design.
