At Milan Design Week for the third time, during the renowned salone, new modern furniture takes center stage. District Eight showcases its latest work. The brand introduces new collections created with renowned international designers: Jean-Marie Massaud, Monica Förster and Ina Rinderknecht. These launch alongside the brand’s signature Games Collection.
The new designs reflect the brand’s long dedication to Vietnamese craftsmanship. At the same time, they explore new directions for modern furniture inspired by Asian culture and architecture.
A Booth Inspired by Asian Architecture and Poetic Minimalism
The new collections are showcased in a booth designed by studioutte. It is our second-time partnering with the Milan-based practice, which shares our instinct for pure simplicity and warm minimalism.
The exhibition explores the perceptual qualities of texture, light, and shadow, creating an introspective and poetic environment. It feels reminiscent of the quiet presence found in traditional Asian temples. A deep appreciation for Vietnamese vernacular architecture and craft traditions is abstracted throughout the installation. Bamboo curtains, padouk walls, and dark red-tinted flooring form a monochromatic backdrop. Visual distractions remain minimal throughout the booth. As a result, silhouettes stand out clearly. Each object receives thoughtful attention within the exhibition.
Modern Furniture Design Rooted in Vietnamese Craftsmanship
District Eight follows a distinct approach to modern furniture design. The process begins with ideas developed in Saigon, Vietnam. The new collections embody District Eight’s distinctive approach to contemporary furniture design. Interior view of District Eight Milan Design Week booth with bamboo curtains, textured walls and warm minimal lighting.
Guided by a philosophy of creative rigor and aesthetic precision, the brand cultivates a clear, disciplined design language. It is shaped by Asian cultural expressions and the evolving needs of modern living. The result is modern furniture that feels both contemporary and timeless. Each design balances simplicity with strong identity. This year, several of Europe’s most prominent designers contribute their conceptual and technical perspectives.
New Designs Presented at Milan Design Week
Each new design draws inspiration from cultural references across Asia while translating them into contemporary furniture forms.
- BUOM Lounge Chair by Jean-Marie Massaud captures the fluid movement of sails from traditional Vietnamese boats through soft, sinuous curves. The silhouette feels dynamic yet calm. This design translates maritime inspiration into elegant modern form.
- BOW Dining Chair by Monica Förster echoes the gentle profile of Asian roof tiles, featuring a seemingly floating seat that enhances its light and elegant character. The seat appears almost suspended above the frame. This floating effect enhances comfort and visual balance.The chair works naturally within modern living interiors. Its form feels refined yet approachable.
- ORA Dining Table by Ina Rinderknecht draws inspiration from the lyrical qualities of East Asian celadon ceramics, expressed through organic lines and noble materials. Its structure celebrates craftsmanship while maintaining clarity of form. The result is sculptural modern piece enhanced contemporary dining spaces.
- DINH, designed by District Eight Studio, expands the brand’s signature Games Collection, transforming recreational tables into sculptural objects inspired by Vietnamese modernist architecture. Strong lines define its structure. At the same time, the table retains elegance and refinement.This piece transforms recreational furniture into expressive statement for modern spaces.
Continuing a Global Dialogue in Design
These new collections further extend District Eight’s growing repertoire of collaborations with international designers. Previous co-creations include Joss by Toan Nguyen, Collette by Adam Goodrum, and Inumbra by Michele De Lucchi. Together they reflect the brand’s ongoing dialogue between Vietnamese craftsmanship and global design culture.
District Eight’s presence at Milan Design Week reinforces its long-term vision. The brand continues to create modern furniture that reflects cultural depth and thoughtful design. Each piece supports the evolving demands of modern living. Comfort, craftsmanship, and aesthetics work together in every design. By combining heritage and innovation, District Eight shapes a distinctive approach to modern living and contemporary furniture landscape.
