Independent Italian brand, Marsèll, invited the New York based Greek creative duo, Objects of Common Interest, to create and present an innovative installation called “Adaptive Grounds” at their Milan flagship store from April 7th to May 10th. On the occasion of 2025 Milan Design Week, Marséll flagship store at Via della Spiga has again pushed its boundaries to demonstrate the fluid relationship between space, craftsmanship and design by collaborating with two of the most compelling design artists at the moment.
“Adaptive Grounds” was intended to explore the connection between structure, softness and transformation. Objects of Common Interest did not limit themselves to a single space inside Marsèll’s store, they rather utilized the two-floor space to interconnect Marsèll’s landmark marble and walnut pallet with the concept of “transformation”.
On the first floor, a series of furniture pieces embodying Objects of Common Interest’s signature aesthetic are strategically placed around the room. “The Tube Lights and Formation Sittings” wrapped in black leather are carefully placed to match with the space’s sober aesthetic. Meanwhile, “The Atmosphere Lamps”, a series of inflatable sculptures, give a touch of playfulness to the still, marble colored walls.
Moving into the basement, Objects of Common Interest’s artistic intervention focuses on a sculptural centerpiece that redefines Marsèll’s bleacher-like space. Originally used to display Marsèll’s Gomme Collection, the steps will now serve as Colosseum-like seats. In the center of the room a transparent inflatable structure wrapped with a belt will be used to display the iconic brand’s footwear collection. This is not only a total re-invention of space, but also a means to encourage contemplation of the role of transformation in innovation.
The collaborative work between Marsèll and Objects of Common Interest gives us the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of adaptability. It is an open invitation on exploring how materials and design can cooperate between each other to tell a new story.
