Published on 28 May 2026 by ISAD — School of Design in Milan

REQUEST INFORMATION

Visit to the Sailmakers Viganò

The visits continue for the First Level Master in Yacht Design! Our students have visited the Sailmakers Viganò, who operate in the nautical sector since 1976, during last Friday, February 10th, 2017.

Scholarships 2017/2018

Our Scholarships for year 2017/2018 were published on this webside. For more details click here or send us an email!

Happy Holidays!!!

Party for 36 years of ISAD

You are all invited to the party of 36 years of ISAD setted for Friday, December 16. We wait you starting at 7:00 p.m. for a toast together!!!

Conference of Eng. Giovanni Ceccarelli

We announce that on Monday, December 5th at 11:00 a.m. will be held the conference of Engineer and Yacht Designer Giovanni Ceccarelli, on its direct experiences, entitled Sail and Philosophy Design.

Milano città di mare

Milano città di mare … , sembra un paradosso parlando della seconda città di Italia per abitanti, capitale morale, capoluogo della regione più attiva a 360°.

Ma Milano è, contrariamente alla sua collocazione geografica, una città di mare.

ISAD in the News: A Legacy of Design Education

For over three decades, ISAD has been at the forefront of design education in Milan, a city synonymous with style, innovation, and craftsmanship. Our news section reflects the vibrant life of the school: student achievements, faculty insights, industry partnerships, and the cultural events that make ISAD a dynamic community. While the headlines above capture recent moments—from visits to historic sailmakers to conferences with renowned yacht designers—they are part of a broader narrative of continuous learning and professional growth.

Milan is not only a global capital of fashion and industrial design but also a strategic hub for nautical design, thanks to its proximity to the lakes and the Mediterranean, and its strong engineering culture. ISAD has embraced this unique position, offering specialized programs that bridge Italian design heritage with contemporary technical demands. The news on this page, therefore, is not merely a list of events; it is a window into how our students and faculty engage with the real world of design, from the workshop floor to the open sea.

Behind the Headlines: How ISAD Communicates with Its Community

Communication is key to the ISAD experience. Our news page serves as the primary channel for announcements, event invitations, scholarship opportunities, and reflections on the school's milestones. We believe that transparency and regular updates foster a sense of belonging among current students, alumni, and prospective applicants. Each post is crafted to inform, inspire, and invite participation.

In addition to this page, ISAD maintains active communication through email newsletters and social media channels, ensuring that no one misses important deadlines or celebrations. The news items you see here are often accompanied by deeper coverage: interviews with guest speakers, photo galleries from site visits, and detailed reports on student projects. For those who wish to explore further, we encourage you to contact our admissions office or follow our official channels.

Learning Beyond the Classroom: Visits, Workshops, and Real-World Exposure

One of the hallmarks of ISAD's educational philosophy is the integration of theory with hands-on experience. The recent visit to the Sailmakers Viganò is a perfect example. Founded in 1976, this historic sailmaker has witnessed the evolution of sail technology from traditional canvas to high-performance laminates. For our Master in Yacht Design students, such visits are not just outings; they are opportunities to understand materials, craftsmanship, and the practical constraints that shape design decisions.

• Site visits to manufacturers, shipyards, and design studios provide direct insight into production processes.
• Guest lectures by industry leaders, like the conference by Eng. Giovanni Ceccarelli, bring real-world case studies into the classroom.
• Workshops and labs allow students to test their ideas with physical models and digital simulations.
• Networking events connect students with potential employers and collaborators.

These activities are carefully curated to complement the academic curriculum. For instance, the conference on "Sail and Philosophy Design" by Eng. Ceccarelli explored not only the technical aspects of yacht design but also the philosophical underpinnings that guide a designer's choices. Such interdisciplinary perspectives are essential in a field where aesthetics, performance, and human experience are deeply intertwined.

Scholarships and Financial Support: Investing in Future Designers

ISAD is committed to making quality design education accessible to talented individuals from all backgrounds. The announcement of scholarships for the 2017/2018 academic year is part of this ongoing effort. These scholarships are designed to recognize merit, support financial need, and encourage diversity within our student body. The application process is straightforward, and our admissions team is available to guide candidates through every step.

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." – Nelson Mandela

We believe that financial constraints should not prevent passionate and skilled individuals from pursuing their dreams. The scholarships cover a portion of tuition fees and are awarded based on a combination of portfolio review, academic record, and personal interview. For more details, prospective students are encouraged to visit the dedicated scholarships page or contact us directly via email. Timely application is crucial, as funds are limited and demand is high.

Celebrating Milestones: ISAD's 36th Anniversary and Community Spirit

Anniversaries are more than just dates on a calendar; they are moments to reflect on achievements and to strengthen the bonds that unite us. The party for ISAD's 36 years is a testament to the school's enduring presence in Milan's design landscape. Since its founding, ISAD has educated thousands of designers who have gone on to shape the industry in Italy and beyond. The celebration on Friday, December 16, was an opportunity for alumni, faculty, students, and friends to come together, share stories, and look forward to the future.

Events like this are integral to the ISAD experience. They create a sense of continuity and community that extends far beyond graduation. Alumni often return to share their professional journeys, mentor current students, and collaborate on projects. The network of ISAD graduates spans the globe, from Milan to Monaco, from Fort Lauderdale to Singapore. This global reach is a source of pride and a resource for all members of the ISAD family.

We also take this opportunity to thank everyone who has contributed to ISAD's success over the years: dedicated faculty, hardworking staff, visionary partners, and, most importantly, our students. Your passion and creativity are the true engine of this school.

Milan: A City of Sea? The Paradox of Nautical Design in an Inland Metropolis

The phrase "Milano città di mare" may seem paradoxical at first. Milan is, after all, a landlocked city, far from the crashing waves of the Mediterranean. Yet, as the existing text suggests, Milan is indeed a city of the sea in a metaphorical and practical sense. How can this be? The answer lies in Milan's unique position as a center of design, engineering, and entrepreneurship.

Historically, Milan has been a crossroads of trade and culture, connecting Northern Europe with the Italian peninsula. Its industrial prowess, particularly in mechanics and textiles, provided the foundation for a thriving nautical sector. Today, Milan is home to some of the world's most prestigious yacht design studios, naval architecture firms, and marine equipment manufacturers. The city's design schools, including ISAD, play a crucial role in supplying these industries with skilled professionals.

Moreover, Milan's proximity to Lake Como, Lake Garda, and the Ligurian coast means that the sea is never far away. Many yacht owners and industry professionals reside in or near Milan, making it a natural hub for networking and business. The city hosts major boat shows and design events that attract global attention. In this context, ISAD's focus on yacht design is not an anomaly but a strategic response to a real market demand.

Thus, when we say "Milano città di mare," we are acknowledging the city's deep connection to the maritime world, even if the sea itself is not visible from the Duomo. It is a connection built on creativity, technical excellence, and a passion for the water that transcends geography.

Written by ISAD — School of Design in Milan