As Milan prepares to host the 2026 Winter Olympics, the city is set to showcase not only athletic prowess but also its renowned design and cultural flair. This event will blend competitive sports with elements of hospitality, diplomacy, and entertainment.
Milan’s Olympic Houses: A Cultural Hub
The Olympic Houses will serve as more than just hospitality venues. These centers will be where sport, culture, and identity converge. They will host screenings of competitions, interactions with athletes, and opportunities for networking among sponsors and celebrity guests.
Major Olympic Houses in Milan
- Casa Olanda: Situated in Superstudio Più along Via Tortona, this 10,000-square-meter venue is transformed from its industrial past into an interactive sports haven. Families can participate in sports challenges and enjoy interactive experiences alongside Dutch athletics.
- Casa USA: Located in Palazzo Ralph Lauren on Via San Barnaba, this venue spans over 1,000 square meters. It provides an elegant retreat for the American delegation, emphasizing discretion and sophistication, especially for notable athletes from disciplines like skiing and NHL hockey.
- Casa Corea: Villa Necchi Campiglio, an architectural gem, will welcome visitors and represent South Korea. This space blends early 20th-century elegance with contemporary pop culture, showcasing the dynamic of K-culture.
- Sweden House: Situated behind the Central Station on Via San Gregorio, this venue is housed in the Liberty-style building Il Treno. It will facilitate official meetings and networking opportunities, featuring a Nordic ambiance.
House of Switzerland: A Unique Narrative
The House of Switzerland is notable for its multifaceted presence across Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo, and Bormio. Its theme revolves around the alpine spirit, focusing on sports, culture, and innovation.
- In Milan: The Swiss Center on Via Palestro will be transformed into a mountain garden, featuring exhibitions on architecture and tourism. Events will include sports technology showcases and environmental discussions.
- In Cortina d’Ampezzo: Dynamic pop-up installations and live music events will engage the audience, with a focus on creating immersive experiences around the Olympics.
- In Bormio: The activities will be more intimate, including official screenings and themed discussions.
As Milan gears up for the 2026 Winter Olympics, the Olympic Houses promise to enrich the sporting experience, merging athletic competition with cultural and social engagement. This showcases Milan’s ability to host the world while celebrating its identity through design and innovation.
