SILK - SUSTAINABILITY, INNOVATION, LEGACY AND KNOWLEDGE
The "Larian Model" of Excellence in the Heart of Como
Join an immersive learning journey where 500 years of silk heritage meet cutting-edge sustainable innovation.
Discover the secrets of the "Made in Italy" brand directly in the historic center of Como.
The SILK Framework
The program is built around four fundamental pillars that define the unique ecosystem of Lake Como:
S - Sustainability: From environmental responsibility to circular economy in high-end textile production.
I - Innovation: Exploring how creativity, technology, and entrepreneurship transform traditional industries into global leaders.
L - Legacy: Understanding how cultural heritage and historic identity drive modern design and urban regeneration.
K - Knowledge: Mastering the Design Thinking mindset to create impactful solutions for the future.
Course Units & Experiential Activities
The course is held in Como city center and features a dynamic mix of classroom sessions and field excursions.
Unit 1 | Sustainability: Visit a textile manufacturing company to see how traditional craftsmanship integrates with modern industrial processes.
Unit 2 | Innovation: Meet with local design studios and family businesses to learn about the "Made in Italy" strategic model.
Unit 3 | Legacy: Join a guided tour of Como’s famous Rationalist architecture and explore former industrial sites regenerated into startup hubs.
Unit 4 | Knowledge & SILK Lab: Participate in a high-energy workshop using the "How Might We" framework to prototype and pitch your team's creative solution.
Unit 5 - LAB & Final Presentations Group Work | From Insight to Action
The final unit of SILK Summer School is designed to be a moment where creativity, teamwork, and learning converge.
Learning Goals
Analyze the intersection of Italian cultural history and local economic heritage.
Master the phases of Design Thinking: Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test.
Apply the CreActionality approach to real-world business and design challenges.
Develop the skills to adapt the principles of Italian excellence to your own home country.
Partners
Quick Facts
Dates: 3–11 June 2026
45+ hours of lectures, workshops & field visits
Target: Young innovators, university students, and early-career professionals
Location: Como City Center & Surrounding District, Italy.
Focus themes: heritage, sustainability, innovation, competitiveness
Language: English
Registration & Fees Enrollment Fee: €1,300
Early Bird Discount: €1,100 (Book by February 10th)
What is included:
* All academic lectures and hands-on workshops.
* Organized excursions and field visits in Como City Center and Lake Como surroundings.
* Daily coffee breaks.
* Welcome lunch to meet your peers.
* Farewell networking aperitivo.
Accommodation Options
In a shared apartment in Como city centre
Private Room (€750): Double room for single use
Shared Double Room (€550): Single bed in a twin room
Shared Quadruple Room (€400): Single bed in a room for four people