Il Salotto In Cucina with Nicolle Cairney: Cooking Up Design | What does luxury in hospitality really look like?
Welcome to the pilot episode of Il Salotto In Cucina, where food meets architecture in a deliciously inspiring way.In this conversation, Sara Seravalli and Nicole Cairney explore the parallels between cooking and design - revealing how creativity, precision, and authenticity shape both. From the challenges of architectural specifications to the evolving trends in luxury hotels, they discuss the importance of material honesty, the shift from flashy design to “old money” craftsmanship, and why refurbishments often carry more soul than new builds.The discussion also shines a light on women in architecture, tackling imposter syndrome, leadership, and empowerment in an industry still in transition. And of course, it all comes together with a cooking session - because food, like design, is ultimately about connection and well-being.Key Takeaways:✔️ Authentic design is the true luxury in hospitality✔️ Refurbishments tell stronger stories than new builds✔️ Quality design enhances well-being and trust✔️ Women are reshaping architecture, despite challenges✔️ Investing in craftsmanship pays off in the long runIf you’re passionate about architecture, hospitality, luxury hotels, women in design, food, and well-being, this episode is for you.Subscribe to Il Salotto for more conversations at the intersection of design, culture, and community.
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A Chat with Tim Heatley, Co Founder of Capital & Centric
Il Salotto Sessions: Tim Heatley on Social Impact, Regeneration, and Rethinking DevelopmentIn this powerful and inspiring episode, Sara Seravalli sits down with Tim Heatley - co-founder of Capital & Centric - to explore how architecture and development can become true agents of social change. From the powerful intersection of law, design, and community building, to the challenges of measuring social impact and making it financially viable, Tim shares a refreshingly honest take on what it means to create places with purpose. The conversation touches on everything from the importance of green spaces and long-term thinking to the need for government collaboration and empowering the next generation. If you're passionate about regeneration, people-first architecture, and building better cities, this episode is for you.
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A Chat with Marta Bogna, Founder of Bottega Bogna
Episode OverviewIn this lively conversation, host Sara Seravalli sits down with communications strategist Marta Bogna to trace Marta’s journey from budding PR professional to founder of Bottega Bogna, her own boutique consultancy. Together they explore how design and architecture inform not only physical spaces but also the narratives we build around them.Key TopicsCareer Evolution: Marta recounts her early work in traditional PR agencies, the moment she dshe took to launch Bottega Bogna.Milan Design Week & Venice Biennale: The duo share standout moments and emerging trends observed at these flagship events - from immersive installations to cross‑disciplinary collaborations.Digital Age Storytelling: How social media, influencers, and interactive platforms have transformed public relations - and why authentic, values‑driven storytelling has never been more critical.Design’s Social Impact: Marta outlines upcoming projects that leverage design thinking for community engagement, sustainability, and cultural dialogue.Memorable Insights“Design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a framework for solving real‑world challenges.” – Marta BognaLooking AheadMarta teases future collaborations that bridge communications, architecture, and social innovation, underscoring her belief that well‑crafted stories can spark lasting change.
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A chat with Elettra De Pellegrin, Founder of Slalom Acoustics
In the latest episode of Il Salotto Sessions, Elettra De Pellegrin, founder of Slalom Acoustics, reveals how sustainability, innovation and close collaboration are redefining acoustic design. She explores the distinct Italian approach, tackles market challenges head-on and explains why customising solutions to individual needs - and weaving them into architecture - can turn ordinary spaces into havens of comfort and well-being. Architects, designers and anyone interested in the future of our built environment will find fresh inspiration to listen closely - and design consciously.
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A Chat with Marc Cairns, Co-Founder of New Practice
In this episode of Il Salotto Sessions, Sara Seravalli sits down with Marc Cairns, director at New Practice, an architecture studio known for its deep commitment to community engagement and placemaking.Together, they explore how architecture can better serve people—by listening more, collaborating often, and embracing both sustainability and creativity as core values. Marc reflects on Glasgow’s legacy of community-led development, the power of public art to spark dialogue, and the urgency of moving beyond greenwashing in the built environment.Key takeaways:Good design starts with diverse voices at the table.Community-led approaches have deep roots—and real impact.Art is a powerful tool for engagement and visibility.Sustainability must be embedded, not added on.Collaboration, not competition, drives meaningful change.Temporary public art can bring life to overlooked spaces.Every community deserves design that reflects its unique needs.A conversation full of insight, purpose, and a call to do better—together.
Welcome to Il Salotto Sessions — a podcast hosted by Sara Seravalli, where top architects, designers, and industry pros break down the world of design. Through meaningful conversations, inspiration, and knowledge sharing, we’re on a mission to make the world a better place—one story at a time. We cover trends, untold journeys, and the creative minds shaping our spaces.
For more information, please visit our www.ilsalotto.design and www.designpopup.com . You can also find us on Instagram and LinkedIn
South Africa