Pharrell Williams’ Humanrace Takes Center Stage at Milan Design Week
Milan Design Week is known for celebrating innovative ideas and diverse brands, and this year, Pharrell Williams’ beauty line, Humanrace, has joined in with an exciting activation called “Have a Good Day.” Kicking off the event on Tuesday, the project encapsulates Humanrace’s ethos of self-care as an essential and integral part of our everyday lives. By aligning with Salone del Mobile’s theme, "Thoughts for Humans," the initiative goes beyond promoting skincare products and delves into a holistic approach to well-being. Williams launched Humanrace in 2020 to provide individuals with the vital tools necessary for better living, making this event a perfect avenue to underscore that same mission.
In speaking about the initiative, Williams noted that Humanrace is ultimately about the journey toward well-being. “Our Milan Design Week experiences are curated to immerse you in the routines that become part of your everyday life,” he explained. This philosophy includes everything from the rituals that kick-start a day—like the quintessential Italian coffee—to the mindful practices people can adopt to enhance their quality of life. Humanrace is keen on guiding individuals on how to integrate self-care into their daily rituals, reminding attendees that caring for the self extends well beyond simple products.
The brand’s activation takes place at Terroir Milano, an artisanal café and grocery store known for its focus on local and natural producers. Seizing the opportunity to connect with Milanese locals, Humanrace transformed the venue’s signature brick color to a vibrant green that represents the brand. Instead of opting for high-profile, tourist-heavy locations, Williams chose a space that feels genuine and deeply rooted in its community. This shift signifies a mindful approach to branding, showcasing that self-care is accessible to everyone, regardless of where one is located.
Beyond the café takeover, Humanrace has collaborated with the Swiss company USM to create a unique installation at Spazio Maiocchi. This project showcases modular furniture designed to reimagine the bathroom environment as a serene space for daily rituals. Integrating the iconic USM Haller modular system with fixtures by Laufen, the installation beautifully highlights how form and function can coexist in self-care routines. Visitors can view and purchase Williams’ skincare and body care collections, further engaging with the brand’s message of making self-care a part of their lives. Of special note, buyers will receive complimentary Humanrace tote bags with their purchases, enhancing the experience of interaction with the brand.
For those looking to indulge in deeper self-care, Humanrace has also launched a revitalizing Reborn Pop-Up Spa at the Four Seasons Hotel, which will remain open through mid-May. A highlight here is the Humanrace Deluxe Glow Facial, crafted by Williams’ long-time dermatologist, Dr. Elena Jones, and personally administered by her on select dates. This facial includes Humanrace products alongside a treatment that combines relaxation techniques with innovative CO2Lift Carboxy Gel Therapy. The spa represents a unique opportunity for visitors to engage directly with Humanrace’s philosophy and practices, as a hands-on, tailored consultation from Dr. Jones further reinforces the brand’s commitment to personal well-being.
Andrea Grilli, the newly appointed CEO of Humanrace, sees these initiatives as part of a broader cultural embrace during a significant week in design. According to him, Humanrace aims to deliver a comprehensive message that reflects its strategic vision—one that marries design with an underlying commitment to wellness. This trifecta of activities during Milan Design Week sets the stage for Humanrace to enhance its visibility and mission in a vibrant community of creatives and consumers. By aligning itself with partners that share the same core values—design, innovation, and education—Humanrace hopes to inspire others to view self-care as not just a luxury, but an essential part of everyday life.