SIL²K - Sustainability, Innovation, and Legacy at Lake Como

Program Overview

Lake Como is celebrated worldwide as a symbol of beauty, elegance, and lifestyle. But beyond its spectacular landscapes lies a unique ecosystem of excellence, where culture, craftsmanship, and innovation have been deeply intertwined for centuries.

For over 500 years, Como has been a global hub for silk production, building a legacy that blends artistry with entrepreneurship. Today, this heritage lives on in family-run businesses, artisans, and micro-enterprises that continue to thrive in international markets by combining tradition, creativity, and sustainability.

SILK² invites participants to explore this distinctive “Larian model,” where history and innovation work hand in hand. Through lectures, workshops, and field visits, students will experience firsthand how Lake Como regenerates post-industrial spaces, promotes sustainable production, and balances global appeal with local authenticity.

By the end of the program, participants will gain insights into how a territory can honor its past while shaping a sustainable future—a model that offers valuable lessons for communities and industries worldwide.

Duration

1 week

Period

June / July 2026

Key Themes

• Heritage & Innovation

  • Evolution of industrial districts

  • Urban regeneration for culture and tourism

  • The legacy of Como silk in contemporary design

• Craftsmanship & Family Businesses

  • The role of family-run enterprises in global markets

  • Luxury craftsmanship and small-scale production

  • Balancing global visibility with local authenticity

• Sustainability & Agriculture

  • Integrating traditional practices with innovation

  • Sustainable approaches in design and production

  • Community involvement in sustainable development

• Communication & Competitiveness

  • The value of Made in Italy abroad

  • Storytelling: using tradition to highlight innovation

  • Marketing strategies and business networks for micro-producers