Issey Miyake and Ensamble Studio Transform Pleating Waste into Furniture at Milan Design Week 2026
At Milan Design Week 2026, Issey Miyake unveils 'The Paper Log: Shell and Core,' an installation created in partnership with Ensamble Studio. This exhibit features compressed paper cylinders measuring 80 cm, derived from the brand's pleating technique. Designed by Satoshi Kondo and executed by the ISSEY MIYAKE project team, the installation is on display from April 21 to May 5, 2026, at Via Bagutta 12 in Milan. It consists of two segments: Shell, where architects Antón García-Abril and Débora Mesa explore paper as a sculptural element, and Core, which investigates structural possibilities through the creation of durable furniture. Each 'paper log' displays marbling from pleated clothing, illustrating the transformation of industrial waste into functional art while honoring the pleating process's legacy.
Key facts
- The installation 'The Paper Log: Shell and Core' is presented at Milan Design Week 2026.
- It is a collaboration between Issey Miyake and Spanish architecture office Ensamble Studio.
- The project uses compressed paper rolls, 80 cm cylinders that are byproducts of Issey Miyake's garment pleating process.
- The exhibition runs from April 21 to May 5, 2026 at ISSEY MIYAKE's store at Via Bagutta 12 in Milan.
- The project is divided into two explorations: Shell (by Ensamble Studio) and Core (by ISSEY MIYAKE's project team).
- Ensamble Studio architects Antón García-Abril and Débora Mesa worked on the Shell series, applying hardening agents to crystallize pleats.
- Satoshi Kondo of MIYAKE DESIGN STUDIO conceived the project and worked on the Core series, experimenting with wax and binding techniques.
- Each paper log is unique, with marbling resembling tree rings and colors transferred from pleated garments.
Entities
Artists
- Issey Miyake
- Satoshi Kondo
- Antón García-Abril
- Débora Mesa
- Michelangelo
Institutions
- MIYAKE DESIGN STUDIO
- ISSEY MIYAKE
- Ensamble Studio
- designboom
Locations
- Milan
- Italy
- Via Bagutta 12 Milano
- Spain