To mark the first Italian Design Day in the Ivory Coast, the Conference “Thinking about Regeneration”, dedicated to the role of design as a tool for innovation, sustainability and shared growth between Italy and the Ivory Coast, took place on Monday 4 May 2026 at the Sofitel – Hôtel Ivoire in Abidjan.
The initiative, organised by the Embassy of Italy in Abidjan, saw the participation of Dr. Federica Sala, independent curator and Ambassador of Italian Design, who led an in-depth discussion on the potential of contemporary design in the regeneration of objects, materials and spaces, with a particular focus on the themes of sustainability and the circular economy.
During the event, it was highlighted that the Italian design approach, based on quality, research, technological innovation and attention to context, can contribute significantly to the development of sustainable solutions and the enhancement of local resources.
Dr. Sala also presented two case studies relating to particularly innovative Italian companies in the field of regeneration and the circular economy:
- Rice House – a company that develops sustainable building materials obtained from rice farming waste, reducing emissions and environmental impact;
- ReHub – a Murano-based start-up that recycles glass and combines design and innovation through 3D printing techniques, creating new objects and furnishings from regenerated materials.
The Conference provided an important opportunity for dialogue between Ivorian and Italian professionals, fostering the exchange of experiences and the creation of new synergies in the fields of design, architecture and innovation.
