This year, Salone del Mobile.Milano celebrated its 63rd edition, and it did not disappoint. With over 302,000 attendees from all over the world, the fair remains a pinnacle event in the global design calendar. Among its many highlights was Euroluce, the International Lighting Exhibition, which made a triumphant return. Spanning over 32,400 sqm, Euroluce showcased 306 exhibitors, with nearly half of them coming from outside Italy - a testament to the international pull of Milan’s design scene.
First Impressions
All I can really start with is… wow. As a first-timer at Salone del Mobile, I (Teagan) thought I had a good idea of what to expect - but nothing could’ve prepared me for the sheer scale and energy of the experience.
While it was my first time attending personally, Nook Collections has had the privilege of being part of the Salone story before. But stepping into it myself this year brought a whole new perspective.
The moment we stepped off the train at Rho Fiera, it hit us: this was no ordinary trade fair. The architecture of the venue itself is breathtaking, with its sweeping glass canopy and futuristic design a fitting backdrop for what lay inside.
Hopping onto the travelators, we were immediately swept up in the rhythm of the show. Endless halls, buzzing crowds, and the constant pull of beautifully curated stands in every direction, it’s exhilarating and overwhelming in the best way.
Halls 6 to 10
Before diving into the brands we visited, let me just say: Hall 6 to 10 alone took us over a day and a half to cover. Not because we were slow, but because the sheer excitement and inspiration around every corner had us doubling back, exploring from new angles, and revisiting favourites. Every stand was an experience, not just a display. If you think you can see everything at Salone in a couple of days-think again. You’d need a solid week (or two) to truly take it all in.
So now, let’s take you through our personal journey at Salone del Mobile 2025 starting with the incredible brands we proudly represent at Nook Collections and the inspiring moments we shared at each of their stands.
Bover Lighting
Walking into Hall 6, one of the first stands that caught our eye was Bover - and it’s not hard to see why. Their presence was bold yet calming, perfectly encapsulating the brand’s ethos. The scale of the stand itself was impressive, with warm materials, clean lines, and an atmosphere that felt like stepping into a modern sanctuary.
From the moment we entered, we were welcomed by their distinctive Mediterranean design language and an inspiring collection of new releases. Yuyun, one of their standout features this year, is a sculptural pendant collection designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Its modular form and soft illumination make it a statement piece that brings presence without overpowering.
Another favourite was Birdie-a minimalist outdoor stick light offered in single, double, or triple configurations. Inspired by the delicate legs of a flamingo, Birdie balances elegance and playfulness while remaining subtle and grounded in its function.
We also loved Kando, a sleek and dimmable table/floor lamp that adapts effortlessly between indoor and outdoor environments. Its soft glow adds a tranquil ambience, ideal for both architectural spaces and intimate corners.
What really stood out to us was how Bover consistently integrates the concept of Biophilic Lighting - blurring the lines between indoors and out, nature and nurture. Their craftsmanship reflects a true dedication to quality and comfort, creating lighting that doesn’t just illuminate but enhances how a space feels.
As longtime admirers and stockists of Bover at Nook Collections, it was incredible to see their vision come to life on such a grand and thoughtful scale.
TOOY Lighting
The next stop on our Euroluce journey was TOOY, and wow-this brand has always resonated with me, but seeing their work in person was an entirely new experience. TOOY has a way of expressing so much through simplicity. Their stand this year was no exception: minimal, clean, and entirely white, yet full of charm and playful depth.
What made the space feel truly unique were the graphic illustrations drawn directly onto the tiled walls-blue line art of whimsical faces, glasses of wine, floating stars, and dreamy female figures. It was more than just a stand; it felt like stepping into an abstract storybook. These drawings, created by Arianna Lelli Mami of Studiopepe, brought a soft narrative to the geometric layout, guiding visitors through a series of open, interconnected spaces.
At the entrance, you’re greeted by the quote:
"There’s no night without light."
It perfectly captures TOOY’s philosophy-and the overall vibe of the space. Designed by Studiopepe, the booth embraced "visual permeability", inviting exploration and offering unexpected moments of discovery.
Product-wise, two of TOOY’s classics completely stole the show for me:
- Nabila – A timeless collection featuring double-glass diffusers that balance elegance with functionality.
- Osman – Understated and refined, this collection truly shines when experienced in person. The craftsmanship and material quality are next level.
But the new launch, Bolina, that really turned heads. A fresh addition to TOOY’s offering, Bolina continues the brand’s mission to redefine decorative lighting with a bold yet poetic edge.
TOOY masterfully blends form and function, creating lighting solutions that feel equally at home in private residences or high-end contract spaces. Their focus on materiality, storytelling, and contemporary trends makes them a standout in today’s design landscape-and their Euroluce 2025 presence only reaffirmed that.
DCW éditions
Stepping into the world of DCW éditions at Salone felt like entering a space where time stood still-but in the best way possible. Their stand was both poetic and powerful, anchored by the bold declaration:
“Do not live in the dark.”
This phrase wasn’t just branding-it perfectly captured the spirit of their presentation.
DCW éditions is not simply a lighting brand; they are producers of objects. Objects that are rooted in the past, built for the present, and designed to endure well into the future. Their pieces are crafted to be companions through life, made to last and be passed on, generation to generation.
Their Euroluce 2025 booth brought together timeless icons and new, daring releases in a beautifully curated space. The juxtaposition of their sculptural forms against clean architectural backdrops created moments of pause-almost like walking through a series of still-life vignettes.
Among the highlights:
- Mezzaluna – An elegant floor lamp that plays with shadow and symmetry.
- In The Air – A poetic pendant light that feels almost weightless, living up to its name.
- NL12 – A horizontal pendant with a bold, linear presence that anchors any room with quiet strength.
- Respiro – Both in its wall and linear pendant forms, it brings a rhythm and softness to light distribution.
DCW also shared their space with two of their sister labels-10 Heures 10, known for experimental, expressive forms, and MODELEC, which specialises in high-end switches that feel as luxurious as the lighting itself.
And this year, they weren’t just showing us what’s familiar. DCW revealed six new collections, continuing to push forward with their timeless yet audacious DNA. From classics like Lampe C to newer standouts like Fiesta and Chaumont, every piece echoed their core philosophy: honest design, enduring craftsmanship, and light that does far more than illuminate-it elevates.
Toscot Lighting
There’s something truly special about Toscot Lighting, and their presence at Salone del Mobile 2025 reminded us exactly why this brand has become such a favourite with our clients at Nook Collections. Proudly Italian and deeply rooted in handcrafted tradition, Toscot’s philosophy is perfectly summed up in their slogan:
“Made by people.”
Their stand was a celebration of ceramic artistry, showcasing pieces that are as tactile and soulful as they are functional. Each light is made by hand-no two the same-using traditional Tuscan techniques, yet their designs feel anything but old-fashioned.
Toscot has found that beautiful balance between heritage and innovation.
A standout moment was the unveiling of their 2025 Terrea collection, designed by Philip Platino. These stunning lamps, hand-thrown on a lathe, radiate warmth and individuality. You can see and feel the craftsmanship in every curve-these are objects made with care, not just produced.
Also catching our eye (and something we think our Australian clientele will love) was their latest design in downlight/ ceiling lighting: the Kaolin series. It’s rare to find downlights that carry such a strong design identity while maintaining practicality. Kaolin feels fresh, flexible, and perfectly aligned with modern interiors that value subtle beauty.
Toscot continues to craft pendants, chandeliers, wall sconces, and outdoor lights using materials like terracotta, clay, copper, and brass-all brought together in ways that honour Italy’s artisanal roots while pushing toward contemporary expression. Every piece tells a story, and every design speaks to those who appreciate individuality in their lighting.
Vistosi Lighting
Vistosi has long held a special place in our hearts-and for good reason. This iconic Italian lighting house is synonymous with Murano glass mastery, a tradition handed down through generations, where craftsmanship and creativity walk hand-in-hand.
Their presence at Salone del Mobile 2025 was nothing short of breathtaking. The stand, designed by long-time collaborators atelier oï, was a masterclass in elegance and immersive experience. Spanning over 400 sqm across two levels, it paid homage to the Vistosi Virtual Museum, seamlessly blending past and future in a tactile, sensory journey. It wasn’t just a booth-it was a world.
Draped in rich velvet and softly illuminated by cascading chandeliers and sculptural pendants, every corner of the stand spoke to Vistosi’s core values: refined aesthetics, technical excellence, and emotional resonance.
This year’s standout releases did not disappoint:
- JEFF (by Pio and Tito Toso) – A modular suspension where hand-blown crystal becomes kinetic sculpture. Configurable, fluid, and poetic.
- DIONE (by atelier oï) – Glass rings float mid-air like celestial bodies, orbiting around an invisible axis of light. Ethereal and impossibly elegant.
- GLOBOSE (by Romani Saccani Architetti Associati) – An interplay of structured metal frames and soft, rounded glass diffusers. A perfect duality of tension and calm.
- LINK (by Gwenaël Nicolas of Studio Curiosity) – A luminous language formed by concentric, hammered glass elements that fit together like a visual poem.
There’s a richness to Vistosi’s work that transcends trends-an ability to transform light into memory, and glass into narrative. Their Salone exhibit was a reminder that innovation doesn’t always shout-it can also shine, softly and deliberately.
Ferroluce
If there was one stand you couldn’t miss at Salone this year, it was Ferroluce. Bold, unapologetic, and full of energy-their entrance alone was a visual magnet. But stepping inside was like crossing into a completely different world: one that celebrates craftsmanship, creativity, and the power of slow design.
Ferroluce is known for their eclectic use of colour, but their 2025 stand did something unexpected. While the outer walls were vibrant and playful, inside, they flipped the script-immersing visitors in a deep, matte blue room where every product was presented in a soft, uniform white. It was genius. By stripping away the distraction of colour, the true beauty of their forms and silhouettes came into sharp focus. It felt like a gallery of sculpture-one where light and line took centre stage.
At the heart of Ferroluce’s philosophy is the concept of "Slow Manufacturing". Each lamp is patiently handcrafted, piece by piece, using traditional methods that embrace the charm of imperfection. This approach not only preserves artisanal skill, but also gives their products a distinct personality-each one perfectly imperfect.
Their Decò collection particularly stood out, where combinations of stacked geometric shapes and graceful curves came to life as expressive pendant and wall lights. Even in monochrome, these pieces conveyed emotion and character. And once you imagine them in Ferroluce’s full colour palette-you realise just how versatile and layered their work truly is.
Ferroluce isn’t just about lighting-it’s about emotion through design. Whether through a bold colour choice or a finely balanced curve, their work reminds us that light isn’t just something functional-it’s a way of telling stories.
Visiting their stand left us with a newfound appreciation for the brand. It was a beautiful reminder that sometimes, pulling back can allow a deeper understanding of what really matters in design.
Zafferano
Zafferano truly surprised us this year. Known for their sleek and minimalist approach-especially through iconic collections like Poldina and Sferis we’ve come to love them for their clean lines and functional elegance. But at Salone 2025, they brought something new: an unexpected softness, a sense of play, and a celebration of decorative expression that redefined how we saw the brand.
Their exhibition was divided into thoughtfully curated zones, each with its own story-but it was the “Green Heart”, their lush outdoor concept space, that absolutely stole the show. Designed in collaboration with a flower artist from Treviso, this fairy-tale setting was filled with rich greenery, vintage-style tables, and an abundance of floral arrangements. Portable table lamps and pendants were tucked into the foliage like glowing blooms, creating a dreamlike environment that was both enchanting and immersive.
The new decorative pieces felt like a breath of fresh air-expanding their range without losing the brand’s signature restraint. There was warmth, personality, and a sense of whimsy in how the lights interacted with the natural textures and organic forms around them.
Other standout areas included:
- Maison Poldina – A celebration of Zafferano’s most beloved portable lamp, including new artist collaborations and fun reinterpretations.
- The Display Niches – A series of graphic, almost museum-like alcoves showcasing the latest from Zafferano Ailati Lights, where architectural lines met cutting-edge lighting tech.
- The Restaurant Room – A delightful space evoking the soul of Neapolitan and Venetian alleyways. Complete with a curated menu by Michelin-starred chef Nino di Costanzo and master pizzaiolo Ivano Veccia, it was the perfect fusion of light, food, and Italian culture.
This year, Zafferano reminded us that even the most familiar brands can surprise you. Their stand wasn’t just a display-it was a whole mood. One that brought together creativity, conviviality, and an appreciation for the little things that make life (and design) beautiful.
Estiluz
Walking into the Estiluz stand felt a little like coming home. This is a brand that’s been with us at Nook Collections from the very beginning - a name synonymous with precision, family craftsmanship, and a genuine passion for shaping light into art.
Founded in 1969, Estiluz is still deeply rooted in their Spanish heritage, continuing a tradition of working with metal in ways that feel both timeless and entirely contemporary. Their designs are elegant yet functional, always balancing aesthetic impact, environmental awareness, and technical integrity.
This year, they brought an impressive lineup of new collections to Euroluce, each one distinct yet unmistakably Estiluz:
- Belt – A playful, flexible concept that allows light to drape and flow overhead like fabric in motion.
- Arco – Minimal curves and graceful lines define this modern reinterpretation of a timeless form.
- Loop – A sculptural series that blurs the line between lighting and installation art.
- Shapes – A bold and structured range that plays with volume, form, and shadow in unique ways.
One of our absolute highlights was seeing the iconic Volta collection - already a crowd favourite - now reintroduced in a rich bronze finish. This update gives the design a sophisticated edge, perfect for more luxurious or moody interiors.
Estiluz’s booth was a masterclass in curation. Each fixture was shown in a context that elevated not just the product, but the emotion it brings to a space. From layered lighting compositions to soft dividers that created moments of intimacy, it was a gentle reminder that Estiluz doesn’t just create lighting - they create atmosphere.
With every new release, Estiluz proves that it’s possible to evolve without losing sight of your roots. They remain, at their core, a family-driven company that believes in good design, longevity, and the magic of light well made.
LODES
Last, but most definitely not least, we ended our Day One journey at Salone del Mobile with a visit to Lodes and wow, what a finale. This is a brand that has undergone an incredible transformation over the years, evolving from its roots as Studio Italia Design into one of Italy’s most iconic contemporary lighting brands.
From the outside, their stand was commanding. The sheer scale of the space immediately pulled us in-it felt more like an immersive art installation than a product showcase. And that was exactly the point.
Lodes’ stand spanned over 500 square metres and was designed as a multi-sensory experience-a place where light, sound, and emotion converged into a journey through the brand’s past, present, and future.
The first space we entered was titled “Out of Scale”, and for me, it was the standout experience of Euroluce 2025. It wasn’t about displaying lighting-it was about exploring the potential of lighting. Suspended from the ceiling were clusters of Random Solo Pendants in varied finishes and scales, creating a hypnotic installation. Accompanied by sound, the room felt more like a dreamlike piece of performance art than a trade fair booth. For a moment, you forgot you were at Salone at all-it felt like a pocket of Fuorisalone hidden inside Rho Fiera.
Beyond the showstopping entrance, Lodes continued to impress with thoughtfully curated zones that told their story through light, shadow, and perception. Every element was layered with intent-from tactile surfaces to sound design-offering an experience that lingered long after we walked out.
Among their new launches were:
- MAP – A smart and sculptural piece designed by GECKELER MICHELS
- Shift & Tidal Pendants – Subtle, textural, and quietly architectural
But the real highlight was Lodes’ expanded focus on outdoor lighting, debuting:
- Stitch, Reed, Focus, and Kinno – With Kinno stealing hearts as the most charming little mushroom light we’ve ever seen
- Chelsie – A tiny yet mighty step light that proves good things come in small packages
- Plus, beloved collections like Volum and Puzzle now reimagined for outdoor environments
Lodes didn’t just show lighting-they showed possibility. From innovation and immersive storytelling to expanding their product scope, they’ve redefined what it means to exhibit at Salone.
To say they ended our day on a high would be an understatement. They absolutely outdid themselves.
A Day That Will Stay With Us
Our first volume of Salone del Mobile Milano 2025 was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived at Rho Fiera, to the very last stand we visited, we were completely immersed in a world where design, craftsmanship, and innovation took centre stage.
Each brand brought something unique to the table - whether it was the poetic calm of DCW, the garden magic of Zafferano, or the multi-sensory spectacle of Lodes. What tied them all together was a deep respect for materials, process, and the emotional power of light.
It was a reminder of why we do what we do at Nook Collections because lighting isn’t just a product. It’s atmosphere. It’s experience. It’s the subtle detail that can make a space come alive.
In Volume 2, we’ll take you deeper into our Salone journey, this time exploring Halls 2 to 6, where another wave of incredible brands and breathtaking designs await. From there, we’ll head beyond the fairgrounds into the heart of Milan - uncovering the magic of Fuorisalone and the showrooms that brought design to life in hidden courtyards, historic palazzos, and vibrant city streets.
