Daforma: New Design Hub Opens in Rome's Historic Center

On December 15, 2017, Daforma, a new concept space blending design, fashion, food, and floral art, opens at via dei Cappellari 38 in Rome, near Campo de' Fiori. Founded by Simone Menassè, Abigail Lewis, and Claudio Salvatore, the space features a café open daily from 9 AM, the Sala Rosa bar with evening cocktails, and two temporary stores—one for international fashion brands and one for design. A floral lab (Floralab) explores the connection between nature and architecture. Daforma is part of a wave of new design venues in Rome's historic center, including Dispensabile near the Chiesa del Gesù, Contemporary Cluster by Giacomo Guidi, Mercerie by chef Igles Corelli, and Stay, a linen store. The founders, passionate about architecture and interior design, aim to revitalize the area by repurposing a space that had been closed for eight years. They emphasize design's growing accessibility via platforms like Pinterest and Instagram, and envision Daforma as a mutable environment that adapts to its exhibitions, beyond traditional white-cube galleries.