This year’s theme, “Inequalities: Design for a
Better Life,” aligns with the upcoming
International Exhibition of the Triennale di Milano
Sahir Baloch
Karachi: The Consulate of Italy in Karachi marked the ninth edition of Italian Design Day with a vibrant celebration. This global initiative, promoted by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underscores Italy’s commitment to design excellence through its diplomatic missions worldwide.
Theme: Design for a Better Life
This year’s theme, “Inequalities: Design for a Better Life,” aligns with the upcoming International Exhibition of the Triennale di Milano. Italian Consul Fabrizio Bielli, in his welcome address, emphasized the role of quality design in mitigating social inequalities and enhancing everyday well-being. He highlighted the Italian diplomatic network’s commitment to “Diplomacy for Growth,” an initiative led by Minister Antonio Tajani to reinforce Italy’s global design influence.
Pakistan Pavilion at the Venice Biennale 2025
As part of the event, the Consulate hosted a Curtain Raiser for the Pakistan Pavilion at the Venice Biennale for Architecture 2025. Architects from Coalesce Design Studio and MAS Architects presented the pavilion’s theme, (Fr)agile Systems, which resonates with Italian Design Day 2025’s theme. The pavilion aims to highlight architectural inequities and promote climate resilience through sustainable and culturally rooted design approaches.
Showcasing Italian Excellence in Pakistan
The event, supported by the Italian Trade Agency and the Italian Development Committee, featured several Italian companies, including Axis Design Studios, Best Board Industries, Novacolor by Innovators, S. Abdullah, and Natuzzi Italia, represented by Salmis Luxury Interiors. These companies showcased innovative solutions for architecture and design challenges in Pakistan, reinforcing Italy’s contribution to sustainable urban development.
Photography Exhibition: Honoring Design Legends
A historical photographic exhibition, “Photography for Lifetime Achievement,” was also on display. This exhibit honored the recipients of the Compasso d’Oro Lifetime Achievement Award, presenting their work through the lens of renowned Italian photographers from the past two decades. The exhibition underscored photography’s role as both a documentary and creative medium in advancing Italian design.
The event highlighted Italy’s enduring influence in global design and architecture while fostering stronger collaborations between Italian and Pakistani industries.