Alcova

Alcova is a platform for independent design conceived in 2018 by Valentina Ciuffi (Studio Vedèt) and Joseph Grima (Space Caviar). Currently operating as an itinerant network of exhibition spaces across multiple sites, it activates forgotten locations of historical significance, temporarily recasting them as venues for exhibitions, installations, and performances. After six editions in Milan during Salone del Mobile, next December Alcova will open its second overseas edition taking place in Miami during Miami Art Week 2024.

Vedèt created Alcova’s visual identity and its website in which bold fluorescent coloured forms, shaped as alcoves hover over images in a multi-layered and dynamic structure. This represents the powerful synergies and overlapping entities between historical architectures and contemporary projects exhibited in them.

Since 2018, Vedèt has also designed all of the wayfinding systems and printed materials that have guided hundreds of thousands of visitors through the diverse and multifaceted venues where the exhibition has been held: from a former roofless panettone factory to a disused military hospital, from a former cashmere factory to an abandoned slaughterhouse, and even two historic villas in the Milanese hinterland.

For the upcoming edition in April, Alcova returns to Varedo, taking over the spectacular former SNIA factory and two enchanting abandoned greenhouses, while also reconfirming the use of Villa Bagatti Valsecchi and Villa Borsani. Meanwhile, for Miami, the concept of revitalizing old iconic motels remains, this time selecting the River Inn – a historic gem nestled in a lush jungle of palms in the vibrant heart of Miami.

The Alcova Online Shop has two main sections: one section showcases collectible designs from past Alcova editions, featuring selected designers who have been invited to participate and the other section showcases Drop collections specifically designed by a designer for each physical edition of Alcova. The e-shop maintains the same identity as the main platform, but with a more minimal and functional design that is still fun and unique. Additionally, a section of the website showcases exhibitions that are part of the Alcova Project Space program.