In anticipation of next week's design festivities in Milan, Core77's editors speak to some of our favorite designers about their first time showing at the world's biggest furniture fair and what they most look forward to when returning each year.

Photo by Lera Moiseeva

Luca Nichetto is a multidisciplinary designer working in product, interior design and architecture with a studio practice in both Venice and Stockholm. Beginning his professional career with Murano-based glass maker Salviati in 1999, Nichetto has since consulted with a range of manufacturers including Foscarini, De la Espada, Cassina and Seletti. In 2006, Nichetto founded Nichetto Studio with a deep passion and understanding for industrial and craft manufacturing processes and a unique perspective on both Scandinavian and Italian design culture.

Rha Floor lamp for Foscarini, 2000

Core77: What was the first project you showed in Milan?

Luca Nichetto: It was a family of floor lamps called Rha and Thor for Foscarini, currently out of production, and it was for the year 2000, 16 years ago. Time sure flies!

How did you decide you were ready to show in Milan? How did that first show and project come to be?

To be very honest I didn't have to make that decision. Indubitably, from my perspective, it was part of the process. Knowing the brands I also knew they were going to present in Milan.

Lofoten for Casamania, 2016

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Why was it important for you to show your work then? Is it still important for the same reasons?

I think it wasn't important back then, it was just the standard way, and being Italian, I have grown up in this culture. I consider it still very important for me to be able to show my work in Milan, after all it's the only real design week in the world.

Cloud for &Tradition, 2016

What do you most look forward to when you head to Milan each year for the shows?

I love to see what my friends and colleagues are up to—you could say that I am addicted to design therefore I really like to get lost in all the design-related happenings. And, of course, I hope to spend time with them as well!

Vetroidi for Verreum, 2016

Phoenix chair for Offecct, 2016

Algon for Arflex, 2016

What will you be showing this year? 

This is going to be a great year! This is what we can share so far, but please stay tuned for more updates. Are you subscribed to our newsletter? 

More from Core77's coverage of Milan Design Week 2016!