GLM, Rashid Reveal New Accent on Design

New York — George Little Management (GLM) and designer Karim Rashid revealed plans for the redesigned Accent on Design division of the New York International Gift Fair, which will debut at the winter 2004 edition in celebration of the division's 20th anniversary. "Accent on Design had started to blur into the rest of the show," said Rashid, discussing his concept for the new Accent on Design, including a 30' x 40' two-story "piazza" at the section's entrance and brightly colored carpeting with a ribbon motif to draw visitors down the aisles. Also being considered are tunnel-like enclosures that will cover the escalators leading from the concourse to the Accent on Design division. The tunnels will feature music, lighting, and color. The division will also expand some 10,000 square feet, and exhibitors will be encouraged to create spaces beyond the typical 10' x 10' configuration. "These plans for updating Accent on Design will help keep New York's place in the design world, alongside cities such as Milan," said Alan Steel, GLM's executive vice president and the creator of the division. GLM will make a "six-figure investment" in the redesign.