The container, a universal symbol of travel, exchange and connection, becomes a space for design, storytelling and experimentation. Container 03, one of the most eagerly awaited events of Genoa Design Week 2026, returns with a new vision. Curated by Simona Finessi, the third edition of the event evolves and takes place in the heart of Genoa’s Old Port, at Calata Mandraccio. A change of scale and perspective that strengthens the dialogue between contemporary design, urban landscape and the public, bringing the installation to one of the most iconic and popular areas of the city.
From an excellent tool for transporting goods to a place for design experimentation, the container is decontextualised and reinterpreted, transforming itself into a habitable environment and contemporary refuge. The project was created with the aim of overturning the functional imagery of this object and making it a cultural device capable of activating relationships, narratives and new visions of living.
The theme of the 2026 edition is Microliving, a reflection on the quality of space in an era marked by social, environmental and economic transformations. Living in compact spaces is no longer a limitation, but an opportunity to experiment with flexible, sustainable and innovative solutions.
The ten studios involved will be called upon to transform each container into an immersive microcosm: narrative environments capable of conveying a design vision and a new approach to living, in dialogue with the urban context and the community.
Container 03 is configured as an open-air collective exhibition, where interior architecture and public space meet in a direct and accessible way. The new location in the Old Port will encourage a spontaneous and continuous flow of visitors, expanding the scope of Genoa Design Week and consolidating the format as a growing cultural platform.
In previous editions, Container has demonstrated its ability to generate real value in terms of communication, visibility and networking. After a debut in 2024 with just four containers, the 2025 edition marked a significant acceleration, with 13 containers, over a million social engagements, more than 200 articles and mentions in national and industry media, and over 7,000 visitors during the five days of the event. The new location in the heart of the Old Port promises to further expand the impact of the event, offering the studios and companies involved even greater and more widespread visibility.
Container is not an isolated event, but a constantly evolving format that consolidates a network of designers, companies and institutions over time, establishing itself as a platform capable of generating concrete relationships and opportunities. A temporary space that leaves a permanent mark on contemporary design culture.
For the 2026 edition, the selection process is underway for ten national architecture and interior design studios. Studios interested in applying can send their updated portfolio, a short cover letter and studio contact details by 15th March 2026 to direzione@platformnetwork.it.
