There are lots of venues out there. The question is, how to choose one. Our new series takes a look at venues we love for all sorts of reasons.

First up is Magna Pars, in the fashion capital of Milan.

In the up and coming area of Tortona, this former perfume factory has references to its past life with original walls and exposed brick. In its sympathetic development it has been encased in glass, with interiors crafted by Italian designers and artisans. The result is a stunning modern conference facility filled with air and light.

Close to the business and cultural district, the area is home to many of Milan’s fashion houses and is the host of Milan’s fashion week (this year it’s 14-19 April if you want to either catch or avoid it). You can wander the little streets, stopping for coffee and the little pastries known as women’s kisses, whiling away a few minutes watching the models and editors go by. Or hop on a boat down the canal, taking in the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie and the sluice designed by Leonardo da Vinci.

Why we used it… our client had already decided on Milan and sent their invitations out pronto. However, finding a suitable venue was a bit of a challenge in a city where the larger hotels have such teensy conference spaces. And although there’s no shortage of historic venues in the area, we knew our modern client wouldn’t want to be dodging the chandeliers. Much head scratching later we discovered this little gem with its airy, modern spaces. High on style but short on accommodation, the delegates stayed a convenient 10 minute walk away.