Innovation Without Borders

Design International is proud to share that our CEO, Davide Padoa, was recently featured in Retail & Leisure International (RLI) magazine, where he discussed the evolution of our practice and the ideas shaping the future of experiential design.

In the interview, Davide reflects on how Design International has grown beyond its origins in retail architecture to become a global leader in mixed-use, experience-driven destinations. A key message that resonates throughout the feature is our belief that design today must go far beyond functionality—creating places where people genuinely want to spend time, connect and return to.

As Davide explains, the future of our industry lies in integration. The boundaries between retail, leisure, hospitality and residential living are increasingly blurred, and successful destinations are those that bring these elements together in a meaningful way. At Design International, this has led to a strong focus on creating environments that foster community, wellbeing and social interaction.

Another defining principle highlighted in the interview is our commitment to balancing a global design perspective with a deep respect for local identity. Every project begins with understanding the culture, rhythms and context of its location. This approach ensures that our work is not only innovative, but also authentic—rooted in the people and places it serves.

Looking ahead, Davide emphasises the importance of adaptability. As cities continue to evolve, so too must the spaces within them. Developments need to respond to changing behaviours, new technologies and shifting expectations, while maintaining a strong human-centric focus. This balance between innovation and empathy is what defines our approach.

The RLI feature reinforces what drives us as a practice: a commitment to designing destinations that are not only commercially successful, but also meaningful, engaging and enduring. It is this philosophy that continues to guide Design International as we shape the next generation of places for people to live, work and experience.

We invite you to explore the full feature in RLI Magazine and discover more about the ideas shaping our work today and into the future.