Nava + Arosio Studio’s human-centered design
Nava + Arosio Studio focuses on human-centric design, embracing collaboration and innovation in industrial products, interior design, and art direction to create transformative spaces and experiences.
This time, for the third episode of DesignWanted’s series Behind, we are introduced to Nava + Arosio Studio, led by designers Luca Arosio and Paolo Nava, who guide us through their innovative approach to design from their magnificent villa on the outskirts of Milan. This series delves into the studios and work philosophies of designers across various fields, offering insights into the creative processes that shape their work.
Nava + Arosio Studio stands out for its commitment to human-centered design, specializing in industrial products, interior design, and art direction. The studio’s philosophy, rooted in “humanistic design,” prioritizes human needs—both material and immaterial—across all projects. This approach is deeply integrated into their practice of “design experience,” where interiors become stages for life’s unfolding drama, and objects serve as pivotal elements within these narratives.
Collaboration is at the heart of this process. Luca and Paolo manage projects together, describing their partnership as complementary, leveraging each other’s strengths to foster a dynamic exchange of ideas. The shared workspace is more than just an office; it is a crucible for creativity and innovation, where ideas are developed and tested through continuous dialogue and prototyping.
The studio’s design approach embraces both modern technology and traditional hands-on methods. While access to advanced software and digital tools is essential, they also value the tactile experience of working with physical materials like wood and polystyrene in their laboratories. This hands-on approach allows for the creation of prototypes that bring designs to life. Mistakes in this process often lead to new discoveries, turning errors into opportunities for innovation.
Lighting design is one of their key areas of expertise. Nava + Arosio Studio has a distinct talent for transforming light into a dramatic element within spaces, giving light fixtures a central role in interior settings. A prime example is their collaboration with Italamp, where they developed a unique double-curved glass lamp over two years, demonstrating a deep understanding of materials and a dedication to crafting exquisite designs.
Extending beyond aesthetics, the studio’s design philosophy engages all senses to create environments that resonate with occupants on multiple levels. This holistic approach is applied not only to residential and commercial spaces but also to their role as creative directors for IVM, an office furniture company. Here, they are reimagining office spaces to prioritize well-being and productivity, blending elements from home and work environments to create functional yet inspiring settings.
The villa, serving as the studio’s creative hub, exemplifies a “kilometer zero” approach to design, emphasizing the use of local resources and sustainable practices. It is also a center for interdisciplinary collaboration. Nava and Arosio frequently invite creatives from fields like fashion, art, and culinary arts to exchange ideas and inspire growth. This openness to new perspectives ensures that their design philosophy evolves, embracing change and innovation as constants in their creative journey.
In a nutshell, Nava + Arosio Studio exemplifies a design practice that prioritizes human experience and sensory engagement. Through continuous research, collaboration, and innovation, they create products and spaces that enrich the lives of those who interact with them. Their commitment to quality and the humanistic aspect of design sets them apart as leaders in their field, consistently exploring new possibilities within the realm of design.