From archives to narratives: a digital platform for the representation of design heritage

From Archives to Narratives: A Digital Platform for the Representation of Design Heritage explores the development of Design Philology, a digital initiative aimed at reconstructing the history of design at Politecnico di Milano. Conceived for the Department of Design’s 30th anniversary, the project creates a dynamic platform that merges archival documentation with interpretative storytelling. By structuring a relational database that links people, events, and institutions with historical materials, the platform fosters a comprehensive and evolving representation of design heritage. It operates on multiple levels, integrating documentary evidence, chronological mapping, curated narratives, and scholarly essays. This multi-perspective approach acknowledges the fragmented nature of historical memory while allowing for an adaptive and participatory exploration of design culture. The platform’s flexible data structure and interactive interface ensure accessibility, making it a valuable resource for researchers, educators, and the wider design community.