Mara Bragagnolo's ‘NOOK’ Series exemplifies inclusive design at Milan Design Week 2024

Amidst the bustling creativity of Milan Design Week 2024, the Porta Venezia Design District echoes the inclusive and diverse spirit of the neighbourhood, with its theme, ‘EverythinK is design’. The NOOK by Mara Bragagnolo is a furniture design series with inclusivity at its core, which is centred around the vision of building a limitless space in this innovative showcase from April 16 – 21.

It is inspired by the Montessori methodology and carefully crafted specifically for children. The NOOK series reimagines spaces to cater to the diverse needs and activities of autistic children. Bragagnolo's vision transcends mere aesthetics and instead focuses on creating environments where children can express themselves freely and interact without limitations, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment.

In addition to this commitment to inclusivity, adaptability and individuality becomes the heart of the series. Each piece is designed with meticulous precision to accommodate the unique modalities and preferences of children. The NOOK uses innovation in design to challenge the conventional notion of predefined spaces. Some of them include the Light Screen: Serving as a shield from direct natural light, the Light Screen features strategically placed small windows for external views and space division. It successfully creates a transitional area for entering new environments.

Additionally, the Rocking Wheel Chair is designed to keep equality and inclusivity between wheelchair users and non-users at the forefront, this chair design features a rocking motion for stimulation and concentration enhancement during reading.

Nook Library: This is a cosy bookshelf designed according to Montessori principles, offering a secluded reading nook with a strategically positioned window that connects the occupants to the external space while maintaining privacy.

Hideaway Quiet Box: A soundproof and private space for moments of isolation and tranquillity, this piece is equipped with soft materials for a subtle and pleasant sensory experience.

Hug Sofa: Inspired by Temple Grandin's hug machine, this small sofa provides a comforting ‘hug’ effect through various cushion configurations. It is thoughtfully designed to aid calmness and introspection.

Everyone Desk: This is a versatile piece suitable for various functions and ages. It features a front divider for focused reading and aids in creating distraction-free learning environments.

The NOOK series represents a significant leap in creating inclusive environments with designs for children. It prioritises their unique needs and promotes a sense of freedom and selfhood. What sets Bragagnolo's design approach apart is its emphasis on accessibility through affordability. The choice of materials goes beyond creating an aesthetic identity and sensory experience. The collection is intentionally crafted with simple and cost-effective materials, ensuring ease of reproducibility and assembly, thus widening its accessibility to as many people as possible.

The overall design approach comes as no surprise as Bragagnolo is so much more than an interior designer; she is a champion of inclusivity and accessibility in design. With a background in inclusive architecture and a commitment to sensory experience and well-being through design, Mara exemplifies a holistic approach to creating spaces that transcend boundaries. Her interests and design ethos come through in everything she does and is seen vividly in the NOOK series.

As visitors immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Milan Design Week 2024, the NOOK quietly establishes itself as a showcase of inventiveness and inclusivity. It is challenging the status quo and paving the way for a more equitable and empathetic future in design. In Bragagnolo's vision, every child finds their place in the world, where inclusion is not just a concept but a lived reality.