In conversation with LUCA NICHETTO
Boundless visions
Back to storiesLuca Nichetto
In what is now considered the “Light District” of Milan Design Week, around Corso Monforte and the surrounding area, Venetian designer Luca Nichetto curated the artistic direction of Chapter One, the installation by Barovier&Toso presented during Milan Design Week 2026. The historic Murano-based company was also one of the final stops of Marcolin’s Leadership Academy. On this occasion, Nichetto also presented his new glass collections, created in collaboration with international designers.
How has Murano, the place where you were born and raised, shaped your creative and professional path?
«Murano has undoubtedly shaped my creative path. Growing up on this island means being immersed in the gestures, tools, and materials, understanding the value of the gesture, the importance and ritual of making, and the ability to transform matter. Today, more than ever, after 25 years, I feel deeply connected to this side of my roots. With Nichecraft, the independent creations signed by my studio, I wanted to bring creativity and the human dimension of making back to the center».
Throughout your career you have been Art Director for many international design brands, held lectures and led workshops at various universities, and your work, ranging from products, furniture, and accessories, has been exhibited worldwide. What does design mean to you today?
«Design is a form of applied art, conceived to be produced in series, numbered or not, but always with meaning and intention. It means taking risks to create something new and unexpected, exploring creativity in all its dimensions. Every project should be carefully conceived, intentionally made, and designed to last, because creativity is a way to build connections».
Among the many things you have designed, a few years ago you also created a pair of glasses: what fascinates you about this accessory that combines design and vision? And how do you imagine it might evolve?
«Designing eyewear was a unique experience, especially because I approached that model in a very personal way, so that it would fit my face perfectly. Design, material choices, and color aesthetics all come together to create an object that doesn’t dress a part of the home, but a part of the body. Once again, these pieces are carefully designed, intentionally made, and meant to last. This is a sector whose future, especially after the advent of smart glasses, is truly unpredictable, but I believe that technological elements will ultimately add even more value to the manufacturing knowledge at the core of this industry».
