Cologne
By Staff -- Gifts and Dec, 12/1/2008 12:00:00 AM
Furniture styles are one of the main drivers of interior design trends. The international furniture market, Imm Cologne, brought together an international team of designers to analyze design directions for 2009. One of the things they note is that people are looking at old familiar things in new ways and combining them to create innovative designs and establishing new rules for aesthetics.
Among the overall elements noted are that complex shapes and patterns hold sway over minimalism, and sustainability and green design are impacting all levels of style in materials and aesthetics. For 2009, Imm Cologne's trend board identified four key directions, which they labeled: Extra Much, Near and Far, Tepee Culture and Re-Run Time.
Extra Much
Extra Much reflects the end of restraint in design; it is a rejection of minimalism in exchange for a look that is creative and bold. It is accomplished by using complex forms and new materials, such as new plastics and other synthetics never before used in furniture, while familiar materials, such as aluminum, are viewed in new ways through new processing methods. Obsolete things are recycled and take on new purpose. Colors are bold against a blue-gray background base. The palette is characterized by a May green, bright orange and yellow, which are complemented by apricot, cream, copper, gold and a variety of blues ranging from lavender to cyan.
Near and Far
Near and Far combines elements that don't seem to fit together. Plastic is used like a natural material and natural, organic materials are paired with high-tech construction. This direction favors sustainable design applied in a systematic way. The color palette is decidedly neutral, favoring warm gray tones, white with a hint of beige, and accented with pink, green and blue. Shapes are delicate, light and graceful. Natural materials such as seagrass and bamboo are prevalent, but synthetics are also used and often feature conventional, such as a woven or veneer, finishes.
Tepee Culture
Tepee Culture reflects a “joie de vivre” and combines an expression of a love of nature with a passion for interior design that reflects ecological responsibility. Friendly animal themes, rough surfaces and recycled material reflect authenticity. Paper as a sustainable material and circular forms are key elements. Colors are earthy, dominated by a rich warm red, combined with brown, green, and ochre that are accented with pale blue.
Re-Run Time
Re-Run Time is sustainability interpreted by designs that stand the test of time. Classic looks are reinterpreted and simplified for a very contemporary feel. The primary color of this direction is beige combined with red and brown tones, and drawing in a deep blue, dark green and a silvery tone to add a little variety. Leather, silk, wax, wood and horsehair are the dominant materials.
The next Intl. Furnishings Fair will be held January 19–25, 2009, in Cologne, Germany.
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