Piero Lissoni designs the new theatrical SKS Showroom at The MART in Chicago

Piero Lissoni has unveiled his latest project in the United States: A new showroom for SKS, a luxury built-in appliance brand. The showroom is located at The MART, Chicago’s historic design hub and one of the Midwest’s most influential architectural landmarks. “When I began to think of an architecture for the SKS showroom, I imagined it as a stage where the scenery periodically shifts, and the products have the capacity to change roles,” notes Lissoni in an official release.

Designed by the Italian architect and designer, with Lissoni Architecture New York, the expansive 850 sqm space is conceived as a contemporary theatre in which SKS’ product designs become the lead actors. The concept plays directly with the industrial design of the historic building, creating an environment where innovation and contemporary design interact. “The beauty of this project lies in the fact that every SKS product can take centre stage, and each space is a story that can be illuminated. On the one hand, we show the role that each product plays within its own particular setting and, on the other, we tell the story of the extremely sophisticated, wide-ranging and distinct collection of an international brand leader,” notes Lissoni.

Five bespoke kitchen settings anchor the showroom, each staged as its own distinct set. Ranging from Transitional to Modern, each kitchen design embodies a unique aesthetic narrative. At the heart of the space, an eight-metre dining table—framed by oversized LED screens—creates an immersive experience where culinary demonstrations and multimedia presentations converge. This central installation reinforces the design's theatricality, inviting visitors to engage with the products in dynamic, sensory ways.

The material palette further enhances the staging: refined white oak flooring contrasts with walls and columns finished in a warm, earthy Roman plaster that emphasises the texture and imperfections of the original architecture. Much of the ceiling remains exposed, strengthening the dialogue between the building’s historic fabric and the showroom’s contemporary composition.