Ventura Projects closes after a decade of Milan Design Week showcases

Ventura Projects, a key Fuorisalone fixture, has permanently closed after 10 editions. Founder and artistic director Margriet Vollenberg announced the decision via press release, citing the irreversible impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the events sector. The 2020 edition of Salone del Mobile and Milan Design Week were first postponed then cancelled, making the 11th edition of Ventura Projects unfeasible. Over its decade-long run, the platform hosted more than 7,000 exhibitors and launched careers of designers like Maarten Baas. In 2018, it split into Ventura Future (for academies and emerging designers) and Ventura Centrale (a scenographic venue under the station tracks). Its final act was participation in Dezeen's Virtual Design Festival. The closure signals a potential shift in the Fuorisalone ecosystem, raising questions about whether large brands will dominate or a new model will emerge.