At the 55th Salone del Mobile design fair held in Milan, 2,407 exhibitors from around the world (and 650 designers under 35!) came together in what can best be described as a dizzying version of Pinterest board. The exhibits displayed a clear preference for stained glass, trippy iridescence and creative functionality; take notes on ways to let nature into space-starved apartments. Plus, the kids section impressed with innovative designs—we’ll need to test ride that Nendo rocking chair. From multitasking wardrobes to reflective chairs (in the gallery above), these were our favourites.
Stained Glass
Coloured glass was all the rage—whether it was church window-inspired cabinets (see Credenza) or Ini Archibong’s dramatic lighting sculptures. But the real showstopper was Elise Luttik’s stunning prismatic chair.
Kids’ corner
Recognising the potential of a growing market, contemporary furniture giant Kartell commissioned the industry’s top designers to create novel pieces for kids. That plastic Piero Lissoni car easily gets our vote.
Shape-shifters
The most coveted pieces at the design fair were all about adaptability. From Thomas Schnur’s grid-like storage system (it can morph into a room divider, plant display or wardrobe) to Carlo Ratti’s stackable poufs which can build everything from a couch to a daybed—these pieces make every square inch count.
Nature inspired
Can’t make time for the great outdoors? Work them into your home. From crystal birds in flight to sundial chandeliers, designers channelled nature in unique ways this year.
New-age cane
Reinventing age-old, rattan-style furniture were Marni’s colourful PVC chairs and a metallic Knoll piece that looks deceptively like wood. To ease into the trend, try the minimalistic Foscarini lamp.
