IFEX – JAKARTA

When we think of the world’s most anticipated furniture fair, we may jump to Europe or the USA, however first on my list for 2023 was the Indonesia Furniture Expo (IFEX). IFEX is an annual furniture fair based in the centre of Java’s hustling and bustling capital, Jakarta. IFEX is seen as one of Asia’s biggest international trade shows, boasting over 450 exhibitors of craftsmanship.

As soon as you scan your barcode to enter, you are met with a buzz of chatter. This interactive ambience demonstrated a different kind of passion on show — a zealousness, in place of the usual restrained observation of fairs in Europe. Exhibitors are excited to chat with each visitor about who they are, why their product is different and their product knowledge. Vice versa, visitors seemed to be far more involved and tactile with the products on show.

For me, the craftsmanship from key suppliers was outstanding. You get a real understanding of the insane skillset and knowledge required to create and manufacture products that look perfect, as though machine-made.

I enjoyed the use and attention to detail when it came to natural products and applying materials to new and interesting shapes.

MAISON & OBJET – PARIS

Maison & Objet is a biannual interior design fair held in Paris. Focusing on decoration, design and lifestyle, Maison & Object attracts creatives from all over the world and never fails to challenge the norm.

The fair coincides and partners with Paris Design Week, which invites individuals into the centre of the capital and welcomes you into private galleries, showrooms, projects and homes that showcase the best of Parisian design.

The themes and trends for Maison & Objet 2023 were visually clear from the outset: a psychedelic assault of the senses with bold colours, patterns, movements and shapes that confront you as you walk through the arches into the vast halls.

There was something comforting about all this zaniness; the playful interiors appealing to your inner child and the lighter side of life. The main takeaway was that décor doesn’t have to be so serious.

This year, the MOM (Maison, Object & More) village emphasised products that back the ideology of surrealism and curiosity, which was the exact reason for attending Maison & Objet.

It’s integral to design to keep pushing the boundaries, and I feel the years of lockdowns and restraints have allowed our creativity to tap into our youthful selves, where the world did not feel so consequential, regulated and mature.

LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL – LONDON

London Design Festival (LDF) hosts over 300 events in September every year across some of the city’s most famous neighbourhoods. The three main areas I ventured to across the city were Bankside, Southwark and Mayfair.

Located along the shores of the famous River Thames, Bankside was the first port of call. Material Matters hosted a space within the renowned Bargehouse Gallery on the OXO tower wharf. Showcasing products with a strong sustainability focus, Material Matters gives a platform for designers and individuals to emphasise the importance of what materials we use within design.

Continuing along the river, the next stop was Southwark, where FLOOR_STORY unveiled exciting news of two fresh collaborations with Irish rug designer Gill Thorp. Introducing Curb and Verso, these collections draw inspiration from Thorp’s photographic exploration of road markings across London. Both sets showcase vibrant colour palettes and whimsical shapes, injecting a playful spirit into the realm of rug design.

Situated in the heart of Mayfair, our final destination was Sketch. Sketch is an internationally renowned restaurant recognised for its unique interior design. For LDF, Sketch presented three rooms adorned with vibrant designs and unique products curated by the French designers La Manufacteur Cogolin. The exhibition brought heritage British architecture to life, and it is a wonderful representation of the harmonious blend of old-world architecture and contemporary design, showcasing the best of both realms.

INDUSTRY WEST – NEW YORK CITY

Although not a fair, I was given the opportunity to view the new collaboration between Zios & Sons x Industry West. Industry West is a firm personal favourite as their designs are innovative yet nods to inspirational design eras.

Zios & Sons and Industry West’s new collection demonstrates where heritage, old European design, and French bistro aesthetics combine to create an extraordinary collection. Inspired by timeless Bentwood designs, this collaboration features classic forms re-imagined in durable steel construction. Embracing a refreshingly modern approach, the collection pieces effortlessly blend into any space.

What affect does this have on the predicted trends of 2024?

Minimalism and greys are out, and the confidence to take design risks are back. Layers and patterns are in and not going anywhere in a hurry. It’s a time to be bold and not understated. Because of the years of boredom during lockdown, staring at the same walls, we have allowed ourselves to throw all caution to the wind and use colour and texture to amuse us.