Ph. Alessandro Saletta – DSL Studio

Small Space, High Density

The new Marco Bicego boutique in Milan

The Marco Bicego boutique in Milan became our first collaboration with the brand, a project that taught us as much as it challenged us.

Our collaboration with Parisotto + Formenton Architetti spans many years, built on genuine respect and appreciation for each other’s capabilities: constructive dialogue and open exchange have always been the foundation of our partnership. This mutual trust set the stage for defining the initial lighting layout guidelines and discussing what had already been visualized.

We began by mapping the boutique’s critical zones, understanding what mattered most in the space. Our strategy was to provide direct and focused light to key areas – counters and focal points – while bathing textures and vertical surfaces with softer illumination. A key point of discussion was our proposal for the ceiling layout: what started as an articulated, volumetric composition evolved into something essential – extremely functional yet airy, almost decorative in its conception, but with high lighting performance. The design features a continuous luminous line, designed to be perfectly flush with the ceiling and deliver gentle light that’s never harsh. Complementing this primary layer is a composition of high-performance downlights strategically positioned over key areas, ensuring impeccable rendering of materials, textures, and, of course, the jewellery.

The dialogue throughout the unfolding of the project – with both the brand and the architects – was fruitful and formative. We explored various approaches, discussing the strengths and weaknesses of each option, recognizing our own blind spots and refining specific characteristics along the way.

This experience reinforced something we deeply believe: quality results emerge only when lighting design is truly integrated within the architectural project – sharing values and objectives with the client, working together so that everyone can contribute their full expertise.

Ph. Metis Lighting