Gio Ponti's Milan

A captivating 5.5-hour walking tour, this celebrates the legacy of one of the 20th century’s most influential masters of architecture and design, Giovanni “Gio” Ponti. This journey through Milan showcases Ponti's versatile approach to design, which ranged “from the spoon to the town”: smallest household items to grand urban projects. Starting with his exquisite ceramic collection at Richard Ginori, moving through his contributions to modern lighting at Fontana Arte, and culminating in his architectural marvels like the Pirelli Tower and the Torre Branca, this tour offers an unparalleled insight into Ponti’s innovative vision. Discover the essence of Milanese architecture as you walk through the city, exploring Ponti's contributions to both private and public spaces, including the serene St. Francesco d’Assisi al Fopponino church and his residential projects in via De Togni. A coffee/snack break is included. This is a route that needs an expert guide to bring it to life.

“Architecture is an interpretation of life.”, said Gio Ponti. He focused on keeping designs simple, e.g. how the shape of a building connects to its structure. In a 60-year career, he worked on more than 200 projects and 250 designs, including buildings, urban plans, furniture and ceramics. It's said that more than anyone else, he perfectly captured Milan's essence, blending modern innovation with traditional design elements. This tour is unique for its focus on Gio Ponti’s holistic design philosophy, illustrating how his work seamlessly blends functionality with aesthetics. It provides an immersive experience into how Ponti’s designs, whether a "superleggera" chair or the towering Pirellone, embody a deep understanding of materials and a pioneering spirit of technical innovation. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of Ponti’s impact on Milan’s architectural landscape, viewing firsthand the diversity of his work and the lasting legacy he left on the city's design ethos.

Led by an expert in Italian architecture with a specialization in Gio Ponti’s work, the tour offers deep insights into Ponti’s design principles, his influence on Milanese architecture, and the broader context of Italian design evolution. The guide's expertise will enrich the experience, providing detailed backgrounds, anecdotes, and an analysis of Ponti's contributions to modern architecture and design.

Participants are advised to bring comfortable shoes for walking through the museum and to the various locations in this walking tour. Bring a camera to capture the beauty of Gio Ponti's creations.