Cabana

The Italian cult brand redefining the art of living beautifully.

Martina Mondadori, founder and Editor in Chief of Cabana Magazine, the cult biannual interiors journal known for its romantic yet rigorously curated aesthetic. Through collaborations with Gucci and Ulla Johnson, she has redefined the art of living beautifully, where table settings become stories, and pattern a passport. With a deep reverence for heritage, craftsmanship, and the poetry of everyday rituals, Martina’s world is one of soul, spectacle, and layered elegance.

What was the pivotal moment that inspired you to establish Cabana?

Both my parents were a little obsessive about their homes. Growingup in such special environments, (my mother was all about preserving the work of her decorator Renzo Mongiardino, whereas my father was an avid collector and had a very eclectic approach to decorating his home) made me naturally gravitate to interiors and ultimately triggered my passion for layered, soulful designs. The pivotal moment came during my time in London, when homesickness for an Italian colour palette and the “essence” of the country’s interior design DNA inspired the creation of the magazine. The progression to launching homeware was very natural, we simply wanted to bring the pages of the magazine to life.

Where do you draw your inspiration from for each of your collections?

By travelling, I’m a nomadic spirit at heart. I love to visit museums, meet new people and open my mind to different experiences. I’ve got an innate curiosity that keeps me searching out the new and different.

"I’ve got an innate curiosity that keeps me searching out the new and different."

Martina Mondadori

Blossom Yellow Dessert Plate, Set of 4

$570.00

Pink Wicker Placemat, Set of 4

$420.00

Floral Yellow Dinner Plate, Set of 4

$940.00

Demetra Ochre Flute Glass, Set of 2

$260.00

Iris Linen Tablecloth, Rectangle

$630.00

Murano Primrose Hand-Painted Bedside Set

$1,040.00

Botanica Yellow Linen Placemat, Set of 4

$540.00

Speckled Pink Pitcher

$295.00

Given our shared love of preserving artisan history, what are the risks in the current industry and how do we preserve these in todays design landscape?

People value speed and convenience over quality. In today’s fast-paced world, where mass production reigns, I think it is about shining a spotlight on artisans and their work so people are reminded that individual creativity, skills, and attention to detail are irreplaceable, and that these traits connect us to something deeper and more meaningful. We recently launched The Atlas of Craftsmanship at Cabana for exactly this reason. It is a digital platform dedicated to showcasing the world's finest makers and brings centuries-old traditions into a new, tangible form showcased through a global array of captivating stories and photography. It’s our ode to artisans and to the unbelievable human creativity that connects us to centuries of craft history across the globe. We hope it inspires people to reconsider the true value there is in this.

"Martina" Charger Plate, Set of 4

$780.00

Balloton Pink Wine Glass, Set of 4

$820.00

Botanica Embroidered Linen Napkin, Set of 4

$360.00

Fiore Dinner Plate, Set of 4

$490.00

Murano Garofano Hand-Painted Bedside Set

$1,040.00

Speckled Pink Fruit Stand

$410.00

Ibiscus Sage Linen Tablecloth, Rectangle

$630.00

Ciclamino Salad Plate, Set of 4

$480.00

You often emphasise that design should be woven into our lives because every object tells a story, bringing history and new life into our homes. Among all your collections, which piece / collection carries the most treasured story for you, and what makes it special?

I would have to choose one of the table linens, as they are always such standout pieces in any of our collections. Our newest Botanica Collection features four designs, all inspired by nature and are the perfect accessory to a spring or summer table.

What’s an unexpected or lesser-known aspect of yourlife or career that has profoundly influenced your design philosophy?

Growing up in Milan has definitely had a major influence. Although it is a big industrial city, it is also in some senses a very small, private and above all design-driven place to live. Design is everywhere, from Gio Ponti, the Portaluppi buildings, Gardella and Caccia Dominioni entry halls, and of course, all the beautiful historic churches.

"Design is everywhere, from Gio Ponti, the Portaluppi buildings, Gardella and Caccia Dominioni entry halls, and of course, all the beautiful historic churches."

Martina Mondadori

We know you have a passion for layering in design. What keytechniques can you share to create and inviting dinner setting?

I am very much against anything too ‘matchy matchy’ or themed. I normally always start with a tablecloth, which sets the tone. Then, I add a second layer of contrasting placemats. If the tablecloth is cotton or linen I usually use straw or wicker. At home I alternate between using vintage sets which belonged to my parents and ones from the Casa Cabana collections – I love to juxtapose the old with new pieces from Cabana, it makes for the perfect mix.

What emotions do you hope peopleexperience when they invite Cabana into their homes?

I hope it brings them joy. I love the idea of Cabana being a part of somebody’s memories and family traditions.

Floral Green Dinner Plate, Set of 4

$940.00

Demetra Green Wine Glass, Set of 2

$260.00

Peonia Linen Tablecloth, Rectangle

$630.00

Amphora Glazed Vase

$560.00

If you could host the ultimate Cabana-inspired dinner party, what would the setting look like, and which three Cabana pieces would you choose to showcase?

I like to host buffet dinners, as they allow me to play with the menu and be more flexible as everyone has different tastes. I’d set everything out on an exquisite table linen – perhaps one of our Toscana ones. I’d use our Martina plates, as these are such classics. I like to mix drinks on our Viya Bar Cart and serve them in an array of our different Venetian tumblers. Add great food, wine, and lots of flowers and you have all the ingredients for a memorable evening.

Why do you believe the art of table-setting is experiencing such a revival in contemporary culture?

I think it goes back to why everyone fell in love with it in the
first place. There is something wonderful about entertaining whilst being
surrounded by family and friends. Throughout my childhood, the dinner table was always very social and convivial – either chatting with my mother or father about my day or very often I would sit with their friends, listening to great stories – the room would be filled with laughter. I think that element of connecting over a beautiful table setting, the flowers, the candles the company is so much more appealing and people recognise this.

I think that element of connecting over a beautiful table setting, the flowers, the candles the company is so much more appealing and people recognise this.

Martina Mondadori

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