Celebrating the Italian design: identity and innovation

The Inventor, artist, scientist, engineer and architect. Leonardo Da Vinci was born on April 15, 1452, in Italy. On the occasion of the anniversary of the birth of the greatest Italian genius, Leonardo da Vinci, we join in celebrating National Made in Italy Day, a tribute to the excellence, creativity, and craftsmanship that have long defined Italian identity around the world. Made in Italy is more than a label, it is a cultural vision that unites aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.

Video Credits: @mimit_gov

Designing for a Better Life: AEC at Italian Design Day 2025 in Cambodia

Earlier this month, that vision took center stage in Phnom Penh during the IX Italian Design Day (IDD) 2025, held on April 4 under the theme: “Inequalities. Design for a Better Life”.

The event, organized by the Embassy of Italy in Bangkok and the Italian Trade Agency—offered a vibrant platform for cross-cultural dialogue on how design can contribute to a more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable future.

Photos from the event IDD 2025: documentary screening, panel discussion, Compasso d’Oro Design exhibition, audience engagement.

Bridging Design and Dialogue

AEC partner Alessandro Mangano had the honor of contributing as both keynote speaker and curator of the day’s program—shaping an event that brought together the excellence of Italian design and the vibrant energy of Cambodia’s creative community.

“Architecture and design must become bridges, not barriers—tools to connect people, inspire inclusion, and spark sustainable, cross-cultural innovation. We must start designing with intent—to bridge gaps, empower communities, and create a future where quality design is not a luxury, but a standard for all” – Alessandro Mangano.

His keynote emphasized the responsibility of designers to respond to social inequalities, rethink public space, and engage with local contexts in meaningful ways.

Event Highlights

• Documentary Screening: Inside Renzo Piano Building Workshop – a behind-the-scenes look at one of Italy’s most influential design studios.

• Exhibition: XXVIII Compasso d’Oro Design – a curated showcase of award-winning Italian projects that exemplify innovation, sustainability, and impact.

• Keynote & Panel Discussion: “Design for a More Equitable Future” – the conversations reminded the real impact design can have in shaping more inclusive and sustainable environments.

The event stood as a testament to the power of cultural exchange and interdisciplinary collaboration. Designers, architects, students, and thought leaders came together to share perspectives and build relationships that transcend geography. For AEC, this is the essence of our work—designing across boundaries to create places that matter.

Photos from the event IDD 2025: AEC’s Alessandro Mangano with Cambodian and Italian voices, united by a shared vision of inclusive design.

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