The great thing about Fuorisalone, or events outside the Salone, is that so many are carefully curated installations. Now, that may not be everyone's cup of espresso, but it's what keeps me going. Today was no exception: I started out at Maison Martin Margiela, and boy, what a start. The French atelier was recreated in Milan to highlight the launch of MMM home décor. Trompe l'oeil rugs to covet, but I'm a sucker for black/white photo style tapis. Danish Mindcraft did it again. Very strong pieces in a lovely setting, thanks to the same curator. Joel Tobman was at Tuttobene, doing interesting work with Styrofoam and guitar (well, autoharp, really) string. Great new work from llot llov (Made in Berlin), who take industrial materials and bring out the best. Of course, all this was great, but imagine my surprise when I saw Gary Coleman again!

Frills at Cappellini. The company, along with Poltrona Frau, Alias, and Cassina was exhibiting in Zona Tortona this year instead of the Salone.



Nothing if not practical. From Goods.



Koncern's theme was Fake It Easy, riffing on eastern knock-offs.



Joel Tobman's table offers minimal material for maximum surface.



Hanging Drawers at Mindcraft.



Found wood and glass by Amsterdam's Recreation.



Detail from llot llov's new table.



Why?