Words Allison Reiber DiLiegroPortrait Alejandro Ramírez Orozco

In the lead-up to Milan Design Week, we caught up with Nina Yashar, the founder of Nilufar—the legendary design gallery she opened in the city in 1979. Today, she stands as one of the most sought-after voices in the design world.

Nina says her passion for design was sparked at a young age, swayed in part by her father, a Persian carpet dealer. “My background instilled in me a deep appreciation for the dialogue between tradition and innovation,” she tells us, “which continues to shape my curatorial approach.”

A defining moment came in the 1990s, when she discovered the beauty of Scandinavian carpets on a trip to Sweden. This led to her landmark exhibition “Tappeti svedesi e mobili scandinavi,” where she introduced the pairing of Persian carpets with midcentury furniture. In the years that followed, the gallery evolved, culminating in the opening of Nilufar Depot—a 1500-square-meter warehouse showcasing design objects she has collected over time—and the launch of Nilufar Edition, the gallery’s own line of design pieces, in 2023.

We connected with Nina to discuss her fantastic creative journey, some of her most treasured pieces in her collection, and her essential spots in her beloved city, Milan.

Who are some of the artists and designers that have influenced you most deeply?

Lina Bo Bardi and Gio Ponti have profoundly shaped my design taste, each in their own way. Bo Bardi’s ability to blend architecture, art, and social consciousness makes her work not just functional, but deeply human. Gio Ponti, on the other hand, continues to inspire me with his seamless balance of form and function, and his innovative use of materials.

Giancarlo Montebello has also been a significant influence, especially in how I curate and collect design. He holds a special place in my life, as he was the one who renovated my home, transforming the ceilings and walls into a kind of modern fresco, painting with watercolors and engraving stars in gold. His meticulous attention to detail made my home truly unique, a reflection of artistry and craftsmanship that inspires me every day.

What’s the most treasured piece in your collection?

Some of the pieces I treasure most are from Gae Aulenti’s Locus Solus collection. Her way of reimagining outdoor furniture was truly ahead of its time, and her designs still feel unique and bold today. That’s why I’m especially excited about our upcoming exhibition at Nilufar Depot for Milan Design Week 2025, in collaboration with Métaphores. The show will bring Aulenti’s iconic pieces into conversation with Métaphores’ beautiful outdoor fabrics, creating a dialogue between past and present, Italian design and French craftsmanship. This project feels deeply special to me, both as a tribute to Aulenti’s legacy and as a fresh way to think about outdoor living.

Another piece I hold dear is a console designed by Gio Ponti for Hotel Parco dei Principi. It’s a beautiful example of his mastery in blending elegance and functionality—his ability to make furniture feel both architectural and light is something I greatly admire.

What advice would you give to an amateur collector?

Cultivate a genuine passion for the pieces you're collecting. Learn about their history, context, and craftsmanship behind the work—don’t collect simply for status. Taking time to explore different artists, periods, and styles is essential to developing a personal taste.

How do you think the design world will transform in the next five years?

I see the design world embracing a renewed focus on craftsmanship and the use of exceptional materials. There’s a growing appreciation for originality and authenticity, with designers experimenting with unexpected media and techniques. Artisanal production and high-quality materials will also continue to play a key role, bringing a sense of uniqueness and storytelling to each piece.

At the same time, I believe design will be shaped by an increasing dialogue between different disciplines, as fashion, art, and technology are becoming more intertwined than ever. I believe this fusion will push creative boundaries and spark new possibilities, driving innovation in ways we’ve yet to imagine.