Young Milanese gallerists move into historic palazzos

A new generation of gallerists in Milan is opening spaces in historic palazzos rather than white cubes. Tommaso Calabro, under 30, opened his gallery on the piano nobile of a building in Piazza San Sepolcro, designed by Piero Portaluppi. After studying at Bocconi and King's College, and directing Nahmad Projects in London, he chose an 19th-century staircase with red banister and green carpet. His program balances old masters and historical pieces with experimental back rooms, including a secret frescoed chamber. Federico Vavassori, also under 30, opened on the first floor of a historic building near Piazza Cordusio, with an informal, underground atmosphere: low ceilings, three bright rooms, a fridge in the entrance. He works extensively with Lisa Ponti, recently deceased, and may manage her archive. Both gallerists embody a Milanese renaissance, rejecting generic white cubes for unique, character-filled spaces. Massimo De Carlo's new location is also cited as an incredible new venue.