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Milano Design Week

Fuorisalone

Discover a path between tradition and industrial innovation in the ceramics industry. Roca presents a unique installation at Fuorisalone during Milan Design Week.

 
Sparking Change
 
Designed by Mario Cucinella Architects
 
Sparking Change, designed by Mario Cucinella Architects, embodies the principles of circularity and decarbonisation.
 
Located at the Università degli Studi in Milan, a semi-circular backdrop of 4.5 m high modular ceramic elements invites you to explore the evolution of ceramics and witness the transformation of raw materials into works of art.
 


 
Innovative Narratives
 
Inspired by the recent launch of the world’s first electric tunnel kiln at Roca Group’s production plant in Gmunden, Austria, ‘Sparking Change’ tells the story of the cycle of renewal that underpins sustainability. Made up of 1,200 uniquely coloured 3D printed ceramic blocks, the installation vividly illustrates the progressive temperatures required to achieve superior quality ceramic products. Each block is embedded with details displaying the temperature reached at every stage of production.
 
Designed with a curved geometry, the installation adapts to the unique contours of its surroundings, offering different spatial and functional configurations. Beyond their visual appeal, these versatile blocks double as seating areas, inviting visitors to relax, converse and socialise.
 
Aligned with the principles of circularity and decarbonisation, ‘Sparking Change’ highlights the significant environmental benefits of Roca’s pioneering electric tunnel kiln for the production of bathroom ceramics. Through augmented reality, visitors can further explore Roca’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.
 

Unravelling the technical mastery
 
 
Measuring 50x40x25 cm, each of the 3D printed blocks is produced using a low environmental impact process. This sustainable approach uses both virgin clay and recycled ceramics sourced from the production of bathroom components, reinforcing Roca’s commitment to circularity and waste reduction.
The installation’s cleverly designed structure is self-supporting and dry-assembled, allowing for easy disassembly. This not only demonstrates the adaptability and versatility of the installation, but also ensures its potential for re- use at future events, further promoting sustainability and responsible resource management.

Decarbonised ceramics production
 
Roca Group partnered with Keramischer OFENBAU to install the world’s first electric tunnel kiln for the production of sanitaryware ceramics at its Gmunden factory in Austria. This highly efficient and sustainable alternative to traditional production methods offers decarbonisation and automation capabilities, marking a shift in the ceramics industry.
 
The initial results of this innovative kiln system show great potential for the production of sanitaryware, as well as other sectors, including structural and technical ceramics and tableware. The progress made in achieving complete decarbonisation in ceramics production demonstrates its feasibility, economic viability and potential for a sustainable future.
 
Fuorisalone Interni “Cross Vision”. Università degli Studi di Milano. Via Festa del Perdono. April 15—28

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MCA – Mario Cucinella Architects
 
Founded in 1992 in Paris by Mario Cucinella, MCA - Mario Cucinella Architects has more than 100 professionals based in Bologna and Milan. MCA specialises in architectural design that integrates environmental and energy strategies, made possible by an in-house R&D unit which analyses trends in the property sector, with a focus on sustainability.
 
Some of MCA’s completed and ongoing projects around the world include the Art Museum - Luigi Rovati Foundation in Milan; MIND - Milano Innovation District Master Plan; the Unipol Group Headquarters in Milan; One Airport Square in Accra; the NICE Headquarters in Limeira (Brazil) and the Italian Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka.
 
MCA also has its own product, interior and industrial design department (MCA Design), working with the most prestigious Italian manufacturing companies, and collaborates with the SOS School of Sustainability Foundation (Milan). Founded in 2015 by Mario Cucinella, this school for young professionals and recent graduates aims to provide the necessary tools to address environmental issues with an open, holistic, and research-based approach.