Today I wanted to chat to you about some of the wonderful moments and installations that took place during the Milan Design Week. As you’ve probably gathered, an overwhelming amount of things happens in Milan during the Design Week. When compared to previous years, 2013 was definitely quieter and more modest due to the grim state of European (and global) economy. Having said this, there was still plenty to see and do. Let’s dive in…

Ciao ragazzi! Guess where I am right now, like RIGHT now? High up in the sky headed towards Salone del Mobile in Milan. Woohoo! There will be so much to see. Big brands putting their best foot forward in gorgeous locations, everyone who’s anyone in the world of design together in one city, emerging talent and best design schools visiting from all over the world… The electric atmosphere in the whole entire city. Achy feet, late nights, sore head from too much prosecco… Espresso, gelato, mozzarella di bufala, cotoletta alla milanese… Waaah!

…And so I leave you with these stunning images of the mesmerising light tunnel in Japan called ‘Winter Illuminations’. This event takes place each year at Nabana no Sato, a botanical garden on the island of Nagashima in Kuwana. This light show uses millions of sparkling LEDs, and it runs from early November through to end of March. Isn’t it just incredible? I thought it was the most fitting way to mark this silly season, and wish you a sparkling New Year and Extremely Happy Holidays…

Dearest, dearest readers! Guess what? Yellowtrace is going to be 3 years old tomorrow! Can you seriously believe it? I am honestly struggling with the concept… Today I would like to ask you for a little bit of your time in hope that you will help us improve the site for next year by completing our 2012 reader survey. As a reward for your efforts, you will be given the chance to win some incredible prizes. Since tomorrow is our 3rd birthday I thought it would be fitting to throw a little Yellow Party to celebrate this milestone! In honour of our signature colour, yellowtrace has partnered with 9 of our valued sponsors who are generously offering you the chance to win 13 fantastic prizes valued over $3,000 AUD! Totes amaze, no? Why don’t you move a little bit closer so I can tell you a bit more about the prizes…

And so we arrive to the final post about my recent trip to Paris for the Design Week. Today I’d like to tell you about my visit to Merci, a wonderful concept store in Le Marais. Chances are you’ve already seen a million photos from Merci, particularly of the iconic red Fiat in the courtyard which you can probably recognise in a heart beat even if you’ve never been there. There is definitely no shortage of crazy love and articles written about this retail gem. In fact, if you’ve ever consulted to any kind of Paris design guide, it is more than likely Merci was top of the list of places to visit. And there is a number of very good reason for this…