Cecilia Melli has built a career shaped by curiosity, connection, and an ever-evolving creative practice. From her early days in editorial design to forging her own path as an independent creative, she has embraced the intersections of design, community, and education.
Based in Milan, a city where history and contemporary creativity collide, Cecilia finds inspiration in its dynamic energy, from studio visits with local artists to events like BookCity that celebrate the power of print. As a TDK City Host, she fosters spaces for genuine exchange, believing that the best ideas emerge when people come together.
What is the creative scene in your city like?
The Milanese creative scene is incredibly inspiring and dynamic, with countless talks, conferences, and workshops—so much so that it can sometimes feel challenging to choose which ones to attend.
What I find particularly unique about it is how the city blends its historical roots with contemporary creativity. Lately, Milan has also become amazing at bringing people together—from local talent to international voices. It’s a truly vibrant ecosystem where ideas naturally flow, and collaborations just happen.
Tell us about you and your design career.
After gaining experience in editorial teams, I started working as an independent designer pretty early on. It was a bold—and maybe slightly impulsive—choice, but it shaped my career in ways I couldn’t have imagined. It gave me the chance to meet incredible people and push myself across a wide range of projects and fields.
My work now ranges from niche projects developed for small businesses to large-scale branding assignments for industry leaders. In recent years, teaching young students at the University has further renewed my enthusiasm as a creative professional.
After having struggled for years asking myself, ‘Should I be a generalist or a specialist?’, I’ve come to see my non-linear career path as my super power—it keeps my creativity evolving and opens up unexpected opportunities.
What is the best thing about being a TDK City Host?
The best thing about being a TDK City Host is the incredible sense of connection it creates. It’s a privilege to bring together a diverse group of creatives, each with their own stories, experiences, and perspectives, and watch how those interactions spark something new.
As an independent creative, I know how important it is to have moments of genuine exchange. Being a host gives me the unique opportunity to create the kind of events and spaces I’d personally love to attend—imagining what the creative community might need and designing experiences that foster inspiration, collaboration, and real conversations. There’s something truly special about shaping these gatherings and seeing how they resonate with others.
Tell us about your next TDK event.
I always organize STUDIO VISITS. Next event will follow the same scheme: it will be a chance to peer into the 'behind the scene' of creative processes, particularly we will go visit the studio of an amazing designer. I won't spoil more details!
Who are your favourite local designers?
I have so many favorite local designers, but I can’t help mentioning the incredible people who have opened the doors to their studios over the years for our TDK events. Their enthusiasm into sharing their creative space have been truly inspiring. Here some of them:
- Claudia Alexandrino e Loris Effe Illustrators
- Lucille roots, tattoo Artist
- Martina Antonioni, Artist
- Carolina Amoretti, Photographer
- Paola Albasser, Flower Designer
- Astrid Luglio, Designer
- Federica Sala, Jewelry Designer
Each one of them brings something completely unique to the table, and it’s always a pleasure to see how they work and hear about their stories which are made by successes and struggles, too.
They’ve truly made a mark on the Milanese creative scene, and I’m grateful for their collaboration.
What up and coming creative events in your city are you most excited about?
I’m a true paper lover, literally obsessed with typography, so I’m really excited about BookCity. It is an annual festival celebrating books, reading, and publishing, held across iconic locations in the city. It brings together authors, publishers, and readers for talks, workshops. It’s one of those events that constantly inspires me and fuels my love for all things printed.
What is your favourite place for coffee, drinks and chats with friends, in your city?
Tell us about some local co-working spaces that designers will love.
There a few options with totally different vibes, and needs. On the top of my list there is Base Milano – I had my office there for a while. It is always buzzing with events, exhibitions, and festivals. It is a big industrial building, with a big outdoor where is lovely to have coffee in the morning or an aperitivo after work.
Tehona, with its minimalist, Japanese-inspired design, is ideal for focused work. Combo offers bright spaces with beautiful windows overlooking the Navigli and the park, making it both inspiring and relaxing.
Your short list of Big Loves?
- For type lovers
- For podcast fellows
- For a creative morning routines: 'Daily Rituals Women at Work: How Great Women Make Time, Find Inspiration, and Get to Work' by Mason Currey
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Credit: Photograph of Cecilia by the super talented Mattia Balsamini.
