Italian Design Day 2025 focuses on positive change

Italian Design Day is an annual event initiated by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation since 2017. This year marked the ninth edition of this prestigious event, which has been held in 65 countries and 84 cities worldwide.

This year's event aims to showcase the excellence of Italian design and architecture while fostering an open dialogue between Italian and Vietnamese design experts, raising awareness of the role of design in addressing global challenges.

Taking inspiration from the 24^th Triennale Milano International Exhibition, this year's theme for Italian Design Day is “Inequalities: Design for a Better Life”, focusing on exploring design solutions to drive positive change and improve living conditions for everyone.

"We live in a world that is changing at an incredibly fast pace, and not all changes are positive. In the pursuit of 'growth at all costs', we risk losing traditional values ​​and the shared societal principles we have built, leading to greater inequality," said Fabio De Cillis, director of the Italian Trade Agency.

“Therefore, it is crucial to find solutions that address this issue and ensure a sustainable future for our communities. Design will play a key role in creating a fairer society where everyone has access to opportunities,” he added.

Fabio De Cillis, director of Italian Trade Agency in Ho Chi Minh City, emphasised that design plays a crucial role in bringing positive impacts to the community

In his opening speech, Enrico Padula, Italian consul general in Ho Chi Minh City, stated that Italian Design Day aims to honor Italy's design heritage and provide a platform for exchanging ideas and fostering international collaboration, as the role of design is increasingly recognised in Vietnam.

"This event promises to bring significant value, encourage creativity and innovation," said Padula.

Some of the leading design and architecture experts from Italy and Vietnam were gathered, along with over 100 industry professionals. More than just a creative forum, Italian Design Day 2025 ignited discussions on how design can bridge the inequality gap.

A key highlight of the event was the panel discussion featuring renowned architects from Italy and Vietnam. The session emphasised the role of design in eliminating inequality across various aspects, from urban planning to public spaces and community engagement. The discussion served as a valuable opportunity for the design community to reflect on urban regeneration and sustainable transformation models, focusing on community-centred design, improved accessibility, and sustainability as a driving force for development.

Architect Tiziano Vudafieri highlights how design can create inclusive environments by placing people at the heart of living spaces. Following that, architect Nguyen Pham showcased real-world examples of covered public spaces in major cities that enhance accessibility and minimise inequality.

From a different perspective, architect Gaetano Natella provided in-depth insights into how spaces shape human experiences, emotions, behaviour, and overall quality of life.

Meanwhile, architects Bui Hoang Bao and Ta Vinh Phuc delved into the role of public spaces- the use of urban architecture in promoting social equity and enhancing community inclusion, particularly in rapidly developing cities.

The panel discussion, 'Inequalities: Design for a Better Life' featured architects with various perspectives

Throughout the day, speakers emphasised the unique creativity and cultural heritage of Italian architecture as an endless source of inspiration for the global design community. The seamless blend of tradition and modernity in Italian architecture has also influenced the philosophies and approaches of its designers.

Italian Design Day emphasised the importance of practical action by fostering networking opportunities among participants. It provides a platform for professionals in design and architecture to connect, exchange ideas, explore future collaborations, and was a moment for the design community to reassess its role in tackling social challenges.

Beyond sharing knowledge and experiences, it may also have laid the groundwork for future innovations, where design is not just about functionality and aesthetics but also a solution for building a better world.

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