#Italy #Milan #Cork Collective #Rockwell Group #Casa Cork

Casa Cork: An Innovative Vision of Sustainability

Introduction

Casa Cork, launched by the internationally acclaimed Rockwell Group in collaboration with the Cork Collective and Corticeira Amorim, stands as a testament to sustainable design at Milan Design Week 2025. This unique initiative focuses on cork, showcasing its remarkable features through immersive installations and educational programming.

Sustainability at Its Core
Cork is not just a remarkable material; it embodies sustainability. Sourced from the bark of the cork oak tree without harming the tree itself, cork is inherently renewable and recyclable. Visitors to Casa Cork will get an in-depth experience of this versatile material through thoughtfully curated displays and events.

Immersive Installations and Events

Casa Cork features a range of activities aimed at highlighting cork's potential. Among them is an international student design competition aimed at encouraging the next generation of designers to experiment with cork-based products. Workshops, demonstrations, and talks further complement the experience.

Designed for Inclusion

The interior of Casa Cork predominantly uses cork materials, showcasing innovative products from both emerging and established designers. A standout piece includes a custom-designed bar and chandelier by Rockwell Group, emphasizing Italian craftsmanship. Additionally, various objects in the installation highlight the artistic beauty and functional capabilities of cork, crafted by renowned designers such as Campana Brothers and Tom Dixon.

Events and Educational Opportunities

Throughout the week, Casa Cork will double as an event space and wine bar. Guests can sample sustainable wines from local sources, including Château Miraval and Terre Margaritelli. Accompanying culinary offerings from artisanal partners will provide a holistic sensory experience.

Thought-Provoking Talks

A series of discussion panels curated by Tiffany Jow, editor-in-chief of 'Untapped,' will explore themes connected to cork and sustainable design. Esteemed speakers, including David Rockwell and Tom Dixon, will delve into topics such as craft, timelessness, and circular economy practices.

Live Demonstrations

The event will feature hands-on demonstrations, such as weaving techniques merging cork with natural fibers led by textile designer Susana Godinho. Workshops aimed at showcasing cork molding techniques will also invite guests to interact and create.

The Vision Behind Casa Cork

David Rockwell, the founder of Rockwell Group, expressed his excitement for Casa Cork, emphasizing the potential of cork as a key sustainable material for architects and designers. The initiative aims to not only showcase cork's versatility but also inspire broader adoption of sustainable practices within architectural and design communities.

Engage and Inspire

Corticeira Amorim's CEO, Antonio Rios de Amorim, echoed similar sentiments, encouraging attendees to embrace cork as a central part of their creative processes and lifestyles. By engaging individuals in discussions about recycling and innovative uses for cork, the initiative aims to foster a culture of sustainability that resonates beyond the walls of Casa Cork.

Design Competition

A highlight of the initiative is a student design competition featuring twelve participants from Parsons School of Design and an equal number from Politecnico di Milano. Each student brings forward innovative concepts that harness cork, leading to a showcase of diverse applications ranging from lighting solutions to furniture designs. Their work will not only illustrate the material’s potential but also redefine perceptions around natural products in modern design.

Conclusion

In summary, Casa Cork represents an exciting convergence of design, sustainability, and educational opportunity, illuminating a path for the future of materials in architecture and design. As the global community gathers to explore the intersection of craft and ecological responsibility, initiatives like Casa Cork pave the way for innovative conversations and lasting change in the industry. By showcasing how versatile and beautiful cork can be, Rockwell Group and its partners are not just promoting a material; they are endorsing a lifestyle dedicated to sustainability, creativity, and responsible design practices.