51 Comments
User's avatar
Jo Selby's avatar

I literally cannot wait for this incredible weekend where we will get to appreciate and enjoy your beautiful home and get to know the area. The itinerary sounds absolutely perfect. xx

Kate Watson-Smyth's avatar

So looking forward to it already. You will meet old friends and make new ones too I’m sure.

Patricia Corzine's avatar

There doesn’t seem to be any reference to 2026? Thanks

Patricia Corzine's avatar

They sound very special. Who are they aimed at? I’m not a designer, just love design. Not hugely up to date either

Kate Watson-Smyth's avatar

So we have had designers and architects but mostly it’s people who are doing up their homes or who love to be inspired by interior design and just want to see something new. It’s about finding your style but also about a luxurious break where everything is taken care of and you will meet like-minded people (great friendships always form). We take care to offer great food and wine, transport is sorted and it’s easy but also fun.

This piece has some reviews of Turin but doesn’t have the Milan details which are on the website.

https://katewatsonsmyth.substack.com/p/interior-design-retreats-2026-a7f

Kate Watson-Smyth's avatar

Hi Patricia, I’ve updated the link but it’s also here https://kwsdesignretreats.com/programme

Kate Watson-Smyth's avatar

I have two places for Milan and there is some availability in September and October so let me know if you fancy x

Rachael  Harding's avatar

Hello Kate. Your Italian retreat sounds wonderful. Are there any spaces left for the 3 day package in June? Many thanks Rachael x

Kate Watson-Smyth's avatar

Dear Rachael, I do have some spaces and we’d love you to come. Can you email me on Kate@madaboutthehouse.com and I will send you the details and payment schedule. Thank you so much. I look forward to meeting you. XK

Jason's avatar

As an absolute fan of all things Italian (from the UK but got married in Florence) I'd love to come for one of these, maybe in a year or two. Looks amazing and would be well worth it.

Kate Watson-Smyth's avatar

And we would love to have you!

FIONA KING's avatar

Ahh, I'm a bit late to the party but I would love to be added to your list for September/October next year please Kate, sounds amazing! Thank you xx

Kate Watson-Smyth's avatar

Hi Fiona, I will do. I have actually one place left in October as one room is being shared. If you fancy it let me know x

FIONA KING's avatar

Ahh I would really love to but I already have commitments this Oct I'm afraid! Hence the planning 2025 diary early😍 Thank you so much x

Kate Watson-Smyth's avatar

Got you! Will let you know about next year’s dates asap. Do drop me an email if you can as it’s easier to make a list that way

Pauline Houston's avatar

Kate if you are running a list for next year I’d appreciate being added . Thanks

The trip sounds fab, as is your home.

Allison's avatar

I’m also interested!

Kate Watson-Smyth's avatar

Hi Allison - I'm thinking June, September and October but perhaps you can drop me an email as it's probably easier to communicate that way and I can let you know when I have worked out the dates.

todgagage5448's avatar

As a former designer at https://cairennfoyinteriors.com/, I find this such a compelling way to experience design. There is something transformative about learning in a setting that is layered with history and culture. Immersing yourself in a restored villa in Piemonte, exploring Turin’s vintage markets, and discussing colour, proportion and styling over long lunches creates a depth of understanding that a traditional workshop simply can’t replicate.

Travel sharpens the design eye. Observing architecture in context, studying patina and craftsmanship up close, and sourcing pieces in person builds confidence in a way that scrolling never will.

I also love the inclusion of smaller group numbers and one-to-one follow-up consultations. That balance of shared inspiration and personal guidance is invaluable, particularly for those refining their own homes or evolving their professional practice.

Katherine Ivy's avatar

This retreat sounds absolutely incredible. The mix of design workshops, good food, and time to explore Turin makes it feel like the perfect balance of learning and relaxation. I love how personal and welcoming the experience seems, especially getting to see the restored villa and visit the vintage market. It’s inspiring to read how much past guests enjoyed it.

For anyone curious about Turin and its design scene, this guide is really helpful too: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/italy/turin

Anusha's avatar

“This sounds like an absolute dream—design, conversation, and Italian scenery all in one retreat. Piemonte’s aesthetic sensibilities pair so well with the current move toward warm, tactile materials in interiors. We’ve been seeing a lot of interest in earth-toned stone and textured surfaces that reflect that old-world charm. We pulled together some visual inspiration here: https://arcsurfaces.com/inspiration”

Michelle Ogundehin's avatar

Gosh this sounds so good, and a house snoop! Can I come?!!

Kate Watson-Smyth's avatar

Well of course. There are spaces in June. It’s not half term….

Chuyển Nhà Trọn Gói Thành Hưng's avatar

This design retreat in Italy absolutely amazing! Combining creativity with such a stunning location is truly inspiring. It must be a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded people and explore new design perspectives. Looking forward to hearing more!

Kim Trochman's avatar

2 for the September trip please!

Kate Watson-Smyth's avatar

Hi Kim, can you email me on kate@madaboutthehouse.com and I’ll send you the details.

Isabella Knight's avatar

An absolute dream for design lovers! Italy + interior inspiration sounds like the perfect retreat.

Kate Watson-Smyth's avatar

If you would like to come then send me your email and we can book your place.

Isabella Knight's avatar

An absolute dream for design lovers! Italy + interior inspiration sounds like the perfect retreat.

Ana's avatar

I am interested in either the June or September retreat

Kate Watson-Smyth's avatar

Hi Ana, can you email me on kate@madaboutthehouse.com and I can give you the details for the deposit. I can’t see your email from this reply.