Joy, Unfiltered with Serena Confalonieri

(Above photo by Sara Magni)

What do murrine glass beads, a happy dog, and a communist propaganda poster have in common? They’re just a few of the joyful, delightfully unexpected answers Milan-based designer Serena Confalonieri gave us in this rapid-fire Q&A. As part of our Perspective cover story on the power of joy in design, we sat down with the designer known for turning color and personality into her signature language. Don’t miss our full feature here for a deeper dive into her work and world.

If joy were a color, what would it be?
Green, in every shade — it’s the most fulfilling color.

What’s the most underrated design element?
Textiles. They’re often seen as purely decorative, but they’re an essential material in their own right.

A material that always makes you smile?
Murrine glass beads.

One thing every space needs to feel joyful?
A happy dog.

Favorite place in the world — and why?

Arcosanti, Arizona. It’s not my only favorite, but it touched me deeply. It really embodies a utopia made real — you can feel the passion that gave life to the architecture and the strong sense of community that keeps the place alive.

What’s your favorite object in your home?

Right now, it’s a communist propaganda poster from the ’80s that I just brought back from a trip to China.

Serena Confalonieri Casa Lambrate — Serena Confalonieri at her "Casa Labrate" apartment in Milan with a happy dog of course.

Photo by Beppe Brancato

A design rule you always break?

I don’t believe in design rules. As long as functionality is your foundation, the rest is pure freedom.

A song that makes you feel instantly happy?

“Blister in the Sun” by Violent Femmes.

A design collaboration that brought you unexpected joy?

Quadra and Flores. Collaborative projects always carry the best kind of energy.

One lesson you’ve learned about keeping a space fresh and joyful over time?
Don’t overthink it. Our spaces should reflect who we are — otherwise, we’ll never feel truly comfortable in them. If you want to change something, change it. If bold color speaks to you, don’t analyze it too much. Functionality is rational, but emotional comfort should be impulsive. That’s what makes it feel real.