The bi-annual Parisian design fair, Maison & Objet, took place last month and I continued my journey of visiting the world's best fairs looking for trends and inspirations. I believe that, it is a fair which confirms its continuing appeal, its ability to bring together a global community of home decoration, fashion design and lifestyle professionals presenting their new collection under one roof. As I walked through the corridors and lobbies surrounding thousands of square meters, rubbing shoulders with prolific designers, architects and curators from the length and breadth of this world, I felt and always feel Paris to be the epicentre of new brands and new accumulations setting trends.
From the 100 new odd brands, I could spot German Designer Sebastian Herkner who also received the ' Designer of the Year ' award by Maison & Objet and his designs known for the flawless shapes, artistic composition and subtle surfaces.
This year, the French trade show spotlights six of China's most promising young designers who received " The Rising Talent Awards " were invited to exhibit their creations at the fair which surely was an eye opener for me.
The interlocking terrazzo, glass, and marble By 3 TV cabinet/coffee table system captures Urbancraft founder Ximi Li's raison d'etre: creating pieces that integrate East and West was visually so engrossing that it was definitely a moment for me to celebrate.
Celebration of French Designs: Each year Nelly Rodi, a trends forecasting agency, publishes a consumer trends booklet, documenting l'air du temps in the design world. I found it very interesting to see that the January 2019 issue was wittily named, " Excuse My French!" - a play on the global fascination with French style and the creative excitement generated by French-made brands. In an installation dedicated to the theme and the release of the booklet, visitors could discover new French brands and collection and attempt to piece together what it is that makes the world so eager to emulate the nation's sense of je ne sais quoi.
Below are the images that embody the theme curated by trend extraordinaire Vincent Gregoire of Nelly Rodi
A lot in the trend caught my eyes and the most noticeable was the prevalence of cane and rattan, the way the natural material can be used with woven chairs and benches from accents to light fixtures to seating which can be seen in India. There was an instant connection with the designs as I have lived with it throughout my life. It was really great to see national material put across in the world pedestal in such a creative way.
I saw concrete being utilized in a significant and progressive way, both the genuine material and impersonation forms in wallpaper, paint, lights and even seating. And in terms of colour, electric blue made a comeback. In fact Ressource, the paint brand has invented a new version of the color blue ' Klein blue '!
'Molten' trend was spotted in mirrors and lights- flaunting oozing, drip-like silhouettes which was a sight to behold. Marbled effects, notably on crockery and platters caught my attention.
Wood was the star of the event as it could be seen almost everywhere. I saw its wise use in unexpected places which has given designers to open up their think tank. As per my observation even 'burnt wood' material is slowly gaining popularity which could be seen in the fair. Nautical motifs are quite in as it was visible in - waves, shells, starfish, and the like - and everywhere you look, adorning trays, jewellery, coasters, embroidered patches and even snowballs. Functional furniture attracted the stage!
I could discover the beauty of corals through the playful shade of Pantone 2019 which played a dominant part in the fair. It reminded me the warmth of nature and reflects a lively expression infused with gracefulness The Indian connect was the brand launched from India named Ikkis ('21' in Hindi). Classical forms find expression as 21st century design objects. Embedded in indigenous craft and materiality, each product evoked a memory or ritual iconic to India.
It was nice to see a lot of stands going the organic way. Serip, the Organic lighting brand from Portugal presented their novelties - handrails and door handles which was nothing less than a showstopper.
The future of 2019 in designs looks good and has started off on the right foot. I am quite eager to see what awaits in Stockholm, Milan, Dubai and London. Will keep on updating you with my review on trends. Hope you like it.
