OMA's David Gianotten on Salone Contract: Fostering Collaborative Design Environments

During the 64th Salone del Mobile in 2026, a pivotal shift in the global design industry was highlighted, moving beyond traditional production methods towards more integrated and cooperative frameworks. This transition was marked by the debut of "Salone Contract," a visionary initiative spearheaded by Rem Koolhaas and David Gianotten of OMA. This new program seeks to redefine the design landscape by fostering an ecosystem where collective knowledge and collaborative efforts are paramount, moving away from a singular focus on object creation.

David Gianotten elaborated on the strategic underpinnings of "Salone Contract" during a discussion with ArchDaily's editorial team. He explained how this master plan, a brainchild of OMA, is a direct response to the evolving demands within the design field. The goal is to cultivate an environment that supports comprehensive systems and encourages a deeper level of collaboration among participants, ultimately aiming to facilitate a more dynamic and interactive exchange of ideas and expertise.

This initiative represents a progressive step for the design industry, advocating for a future where design is not merely about creating objects but about building integrated systems through shared knowledge and collective creativity. By embracing collaborative frameworks, "Salone Contract" aims to drive innovation and address complex design challenges more effectively, setting a new standard for design fairs and industry practices worldwide.