On September 24, Italian luxury house Fendi opened its new flagship “Palazzo FENDI Milano” near the intersection of Via Monte Napoleone and Via Matteotti, at the very heart of Milan’s fashion district.
The building, originally designed between 1933 and 1936 by architect Emilio Lancia, is a landmark example of Italian Rationalist architecture. Reimagined under the direction of Fendi’s in-house architecture department, the new concept blends the refined details of 1930s Milanese style with the Maison’s distinctive design codes, creating a dialogue between heritage and modernity.
Spanning four floors and 910 square meters, the grand boutique houses its own atelier and, on the top floor, introduces three distinct dining concepts by the renowned Langosteria. The opening marks the arrival of a new destination where luxury and gastronomy converge to offer an unprecedented experience in Milan.
A Space Where Architecture Meets Art
The flagship’s façade features a rhythmic interplay of arched and square windows, crowned by a central tower that enhances its stately presence. Along Via Matteotti, a graceful covered walkway unfolds with arched roofing. Aside from Fendi’s logo and baroque-inspired, organically shaped door handles, much of the building’s original architectural beauty has been faithfully preserved.
Inside, the boutique combines marble and wood with works by contemporary artists, evoking the feel of an art gallery. Collaborations with esteemed cultural institutions such as Fondazione Officine Saffi, Fondazione Arnaldo Pomodoro, and galleries Mazzoleni and Secci enrich the space with artistic depth, harmonizing with Fendi’s creative vision.
First Floor – Women’s Accessories
The women’s accessories floor is framed by walnut arches, calce romana walls, and ribbed travertine marble finishes. At its center, a sculptural marble wall commands attention, its draping folds reminiscent of Roman baroque sculpture. The flooring follows a domus-inspired geometric design, using Rosso Lepanto and Breccia Oniciata marble tiles in an orderly composition.
The highlight is a ceramic sculpture by Anton Alvarez, rendered in Fendi’s signature yellow, purple, and green tones with organic forms that enliven the space. Additional accents include playful ceramic works by Roger Coll in yellow and bubblegum pink, as well as symmetrical art by Levy Van Veluw.
The staircase features a handrail in Cuoio Romano leather with “Selleria” stitching, alternating with pink diamond-shaped glass inserts, while restored circular windows retain their original framework. The ceiling fresco, specially created by Edoardo Piermattei, spans the entire surface, with shades of pink, burgundy, and terracotta punctuated by neon blue. Each floor presents his artistry through varied techniques, from watercolor washes to vaulted reliefs.
Second Floor – Men’s & Kids’ Collections
The men’s floor is defined by parquet flooring in teak inspired by backgammon boards, walls in silver travertine, and striped ceilings that emphasize material richness. Displays reference the ancient Roman technique of anastylosis, evoking the reconstruction of ruins.
The men’s VIP room draws inspiration from Villa Necchi Campiglio, the residence designed by architect Piero Portaluppi. Dark walnut paneling and silver travertine flooring create an atmosphere of refinement, anchored by Daniel Crews-Chubb’s monumental painting Where the Wild Things Are. Wallpaper designed by Luke Edward Hall, themed around Rome, further enhances the distinctive space.
The kids’ collection is presented in a lighter, playful setting, with a Palladiana floor in pastel-hued marbles and whimsical displays. Calce romana walls and anastylosis-inspired details add a touch of airy elegance to the atmosphere.
Third Floor – Fendi Couture & Fur Collections
The third floor is devoted to Fendi Couture and furs, where ivory lacquered walls, Ascoli marble arches, and gold metal displays form a grand backdrop. The women’s prêt-à-porter salon merges Roman and Milanese aesthetics, pairing patterned marble floors with restored ceilings that bridge history and modernity.
Two distinct VIP rooms further enrich the space. One, dedicated to high jewelry, features an Ascoli marble console and a palette of powder pink for a refined elegance. The other offers panoramic views of Piazza San Babila, furnished with a sculptural piece by Florian Tomballe and a custom circular carpet.
Fourth Floor – Atelier & Fendi Apartment
Exiting the elevator on the top floor reveals Fendi’s atelier, a space celebrating the Maison’s heritage in fur and leather craftsmanship. Visitors can observe artisans at work, surrounded by aluminum display structures inspired by Franco Albini and geometric tile flooring. Exhibits here also narrate Fendi’s 100-year history.
Further inside lies the “Fendi Apartment.” This exclusive area features a Pantheon-inspired arched foyer, a metal door recalling coffered ceilings, and circular lights reminiscent of skylights. The VIP salon includes Agostino Bonalumi’s Rosso Rosa and Arnaldo Pomodoro’s triptych Tracce I. A bespoke bar cabinet crafted in Japanese raku ceramic adds a striking finishing touch.
A New Landmark of Luxury
“Palazzo FENDI Milano” is conceived as a place where architecture, art, craftsmanship, and gastronomy converge, delivering an unprecedented brand experience. Rising in Milan’s foremost fashion street, the flagship transcends the role of a boutique and is set to establish itself as a new urban landmark in the years to come.
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