Summer/Autumn 2015
In the Spotlight Christopher Boots Talking Business Mark Tuckey An Elastic Sky 3GATTI Food for Thought Design Office
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The Folia Collection Folia is a charming and playful collection of printed cotton designs, providing endless colour coordinating options. Handpainted techniques and simple graphic patterning rendered in this season’s palette evoke a tranquil feel for your home interior. Scandinavian styled prints in botanical florals combine with bold stripes and dramatic geometrics to create a delightful range, with something for everybody. *Curtain – Maison Charcoal *Roman Blinds - Albi Charcoal *Cushions – Anais Linen , Folia Charcoal
editor’s letter MATERIALS.
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hreaded through each section of this issue is a common theme of exploration into the materials that have informed the creation of each featured design, idea or product. Asserting the ability to make or break, add value to and essentially constitute a design idea in its entirety, we look at how the creator’s choice of material is a decision that should not only be based on the desired aesthetics of the creation, but the understanding of material properties and the intent to make a distinctive mark in a mix of competitive designs. To this end, we shine the light on Christopher Boots. The Melbournebased industrial designer is making waves within the industry both locally and internationally with his handcrafted, high-end, architectural lighting pieces. We look into Boots’ use of ‘classic, timeless materials that age beautifully’ including quartz crystal, gold, silver, palladium leaf and borosilicate glass, and we learn from his inspirations. We talk business with Mark Tuckey on the company’s dedication to sourcing sustainable materials and delve into imminent industry themes, before interviewing the Managing Director of Warwick Fabrics’ Australia Furniture Retail and Manufacturing Division, John Mackinnon, in the lead up to the company’s looming, trade-only event, Furnishing in Focus. Expanding our horizons abroad, we speak to Italian designer, Francesco Gatti of respected architectural practice 3GATTI on the creation of the SND concept store built in Shanghai, China – a space that is both dreamlike and functional, utilising 10,000 varying pieces of thin, white fibreglass. Bringing it back home, offering a contrasting, fresh perspective within the hospitality sector, the American Ash wood driven, Scandinavian-design of Filter in Melbourne’s CBD by DesignOffice airs simplicity and sophistication. Each different project speaks of the designers’ passion for uncovering new ideas, technology, materials and methods of design in order to keep a cutting-edge in the industry and to produce designs that stand out as pioneering. As always, we review this season’s most standout events just past, providing a detailed post show report on our top five picks, before looking forward to a calendar of the most anticipated upcoming events to attend. Finally, we carry on the theme as we focus on materials in our Book Review of the recently released publication, Material Innovation: Architecture by Andrew H. Dent and Leslie Sherr. Enjoy! Elena Papargiris
Introducing the new
Two new collections featuring Sealy’s latest support technology:
Designed to allow your body to completely relax and recover. Model shown is from the Sealy Posturepedic Enhance collection.
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Contents
Summer /Autumn 2015
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Architecture
An unwavering respect for instinctual creativity is at the crux of 3GATTI’s architectural designs. The man at the helm, Francesco Gatti, is this issue’s architectural voice, sharing his exeprience of how constructing his own ‘pièce de résistance’ in downtown Shanghai
24
Talking Business
With Mark Tuckey and Warwick Fabrics.
required more than just objective experience.
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40
Interior Design
Mark Simpson, joint Creative Director at DesignOffice, explains how the creative interior collaboration of a seemingly humble, Scandinavian-style design – Filter – has allowed for a point of difference in
Local Manufacturing
the heart of Melbourne’s CBD.
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Trade Shows Highlights from key local and
We caught up with Melbourne-based industrial designer
international trade shows and a calendar
Christopher Boots at his charming Fitzroy studio to talk on boutique
of upcoming events.
manufacturing and the bespoke, locally handcrafted, high-end lighting that has caused a stir in the industry for being enchantingly unique.
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10
New Products
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Industry News
Book Review Kat Chaousis reviews Material
Innovation: Architecture by Andrew H. Dent and Leslie Sherr that explores the notion that every idea has a material solution.
Cover image: Christopher Boots Photographer: Mark Rudge @ ELLIKON
Founder/Publisher Peter Zapris peter@furnishinginternational.com Editor Elena Papargiris editor@furnishinginternational.com Graphic Design Phillips Hentri @ Change Creative mail@changecreative.com.au Print ELLIKON – Print • People • Planet ellikon.com.au Contributing Writers Kat Chaousis, Melinda Jennings, Emily Sparshott Contributing Photographer Mark Rudge @ ELLIKON Subscriptions Manager Natalie Tshaikiwksy subscriptions@furnishinginternational.com Advertising Enquiries Louisa Li Phone: (+61 3) 9417 9399 Mobile: (+61) 400 519 218 louisa@furnishinginternational.com ELLIKON Publishing 384 George Street Fitzroy, VIC 3065 Australia furnishinginternational.com Furnishing International is the exclusive Australasian member of:
Furnishing International accepts freelance contributions; however there is no guarantee that unsolicited manuscripts, artwork or photographs will be used or returned. The entire contents of Furnishing International are copyright and may not be reproduced in any form, either in whole or in part, without written permission from the publisher. While the publisher makes every effort to be accurate regarding the publication of advertisements, it should be noted that Furnishing International does not endorse any advertised product or service. Viewpoints and opinions expressed in Furnishing International are those of the authors. The publisher accepts no responsibility for the information supplied or changes subsequent to the date of publication. Furnishing International is printed at a ISO 9001 Quality Accredited and ISO 14001 Certified green print facility and on paper sourced from sustainable forests. The Publisher of Furnishing International promotes environmentally responsible, socially equitable and economically sustainable practices.
Inspiration “A good space is like a good movie or painting; you don’t need a rational explanation to appreciate it, you just have to trust your intuition.” FRANCESCO GATTI, 3GATTI
NEW PRODUCTS
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New Products
Amalfi Hex Wall DĂŠcor includes tea light candle inserts and will make for a great feature in any room. amalfihomewares.com.au
Zanui Replica Cappellini Melt Down Pendant Light from Lucretia Lighting is made from blown glass and takes one 60-watt E27 bulb. zanui.com.au
Go Modern Furniture Mogg Bugie Dining Table is part of a brand new series of tables by Annebet Philips for Italian brand Mogg, exhibited in Milan at Salone del Mobile 2014. Bugie is made from ash wood with turned, solid wood legs and is available in glossy white or a variety of matt lacquers. gomodern.co.uk
Summer/Autumn 2015
NEW PRODUCTS
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Clare Loves Walnut Wall Clock is crafted from quality walnut veneer with Roman numeral cutouts marking the quarter hours. clareloves.co.uk
CesarrĂŠ Barbecue KARA features a large, structure-treated steel frame, refractory stainless steel fire pit, electropolished stainless steel grill and is finished in a powder-coated paint. cesarre.com
Risenn Home and Lifestyle Geometric Side Table in copper features a stainless steel base and a whitewash wooden veneer top. risenn.com.au
Oblica Invicta Alcor Freestanding Fireplace made from cast iron and boasting an elegant panoramic glass window. Its low space requirement makes it perfect for smaller spaces, and with an output of 6kW, it is also powerful enough to warm larger areas. oblica.com.au
furnishinginternational.com
NEW PRODUCTS
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Satara Australia Pylon Bar Stool designed by Australian, Rory Unite, features a frame of powdercoated galvanised steel, French oak legs and a mahogany seat.
MeroWings Forest Kissen Cushions are ideal for a rustic or eclectic interior setting.
satara.com.au merowings.com
Rug Couture Wool Rug is hand-knotted and fully customisable, with colour and shape modifications available. rugcouture.com
Go Modern Furniture Lema Booken Bookcase is designed for Italian brand Lema by the award winning Raw Edges Design Studio. gomodern.co.uk
Summer/Autumn 2015
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NEW PRODUCTS
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Sweetpea & Willow Divine Mongolian Lambskin Rug featured here in ‘cement’ is 100 per cent natural and hardwearing with intent to elicit raw, authentic character. sweetpeaandwillow.com
Skandivis Nynne Rosenvinge White Print is a creative illustration by the Danish artist, Nynne Rosenvinge. skandivis.co.uk
indie art & design Umbrella Cushion is made from high quality 100 per cent Russian linen and screen printed by hand in Australia. It comes with a high quality, 80 per cent feather/20 per cent fibre insert. indie.com.au
BRABBU Design Forces DELPHI Screen is made from hammered brass, featuring panels in bird’s eye wood veneer, elm root wood veneer and brass aged patina. brabbu.com
Summer/Autumn 2015
NEW PRODUCTS
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Nella Vetrina Fluid Ribbon Chair simultaneously makes a statement in functionality and whimsy. It is shown here upholstered in leather. Nella Vetrina is owned by Adelaide native Steven Brister. nellavetrina.com
KSL Living Coffee Table Wood Volcane is comprised of three parts: a white lacquered expanded PVC storage box base, a shelf in solid oak that slides on the base and a sink which is removable for easy cleaning. ksl-living.fr
Maison Valentina Koi Bathtub flaunts a base of aged brushed brass and bathtub in aged brushed iron. Koi carp is a recurring symbol of Japanese culture, highly appreciated for its decorative purposes. maisonvalentina.net
furnishinginternational.com
NEW PRODUCTS
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Cactose Fountain is made from natural white stone and slate and is suitable for use as an indoor or outdoor feature. mur-eau.fr
Koket Chloe Wall Sconce features exquisite leaf detailing in gilded bronze and finished in gold. bykoket.com
Mayfield Lamps 910 Littlewhy is 540mm in height and is Australian made. Custom colours are available. mayfieldlamps.com.au
Something Beginning With Ari Sofa designed by the dynamic (SBW) duo, industrial designer Lisa Vincitorio and creative accomplice Laelie Berzon. Proudly crafted in Melbourne, Australia. somethingbeginningwith.com.au
Summer/Autumn 2015
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Summer/Autumn 2015
LOCAL MANUFACTURING: AUSTRALIAN WORKSTATION MANUFACTURERS
LOCAL MANUFACTURING: CHRISTOPHER BOOTS
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IN THE
SPOTLIGHT MELBOURNE-BASED INDUSTRIAL DESIGNER CHRISTOPHER BOOTS HAS, OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS, BUILT A SOUND NAME FOR HIMSELF AND HIS SELF-TITLED ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING DESIGN PRACTICE; A NAME SYNONYMOUS WITH THE BESPOKE, LOCALLY HANDCRAFTED, HIGHEND LIGHTING THAT HAS CAUSED A STIR IN THE INDUSTRY FOR BEING ENCHANTINGLY UNIQUE. WE CAUGHT UP WITH BOOTS AT HIS CHARMING FITZROY STUDIO TO TALK ABOUT BOUTIQUE MANUFACTURING AND TO UNCOVER THE INSPIRATIONS THAT HAVE SPARKED HIS CREATIVITY. Words Elena Papargiris Photography Guy Lavoipierre & Mark Rudge
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he ongoing drive to explore new ideas and materials is perhaps the most admirable quality of Christopher Boots’ talent. Inspired by nature, nanotechnology, quantum and optical physics, Boots’ passion for his work airs an admirable ease and confidence. The Christopher Boots warehouse studio based in Fitzroy, Melbourne is adorned with the architectural lighting pieces Boots has become so well-known for, bright green foliage and tasteful, minimal furnishings. In addition to this space, Boots also recently acquired a second workshop just two blocks away from the studio, which houses the production team including glass blowers, copper smiths, ceramicists, sculptors and bronze castors. “The creation of a studio space that is domestic and comfortable was the beginning of establishing a harmonious environment
dedicated to artisanal practices. We all spend so much time in our lives working, that we often mistake ‘living’ for something that occurs in the future. I’ve always desired a work-life balance, where being at work is living at one’s best – doing things from a place driven by passion for people and the personal development that occurs when you’re working in a group,” says Boots. The practice was officially launched on the 11th of November 2011 and has since experienced mounting attention and high profile projects both locally and internationally. Backing this has been Boots’ foundational education and solid experience in the industry. “I worked with lighting designer Geoffrey Mance (GM) after graduating from Industrial Design at Swinburne in 2005. A two-year stint at GM was an incredible learning
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LOCAL MANUFACTURING: CHRISTOPHER BOOTS
“I believe that Australians have an ingenious, curious and intelligent manner to problem solve, and with that kind of education, we can easily imbue value adding into what we make.”
Summer/Autumn 2015
LOCAL MANUFACTURING: CHRISTOPHER BOOTS
experience. After Geoffrey passed away in 2007, the team and I took over and ran GM. By 2011, it was time to spread my wings, to initiate a new chapter and start my own business,” he explains. Since then, Christopher Boots has been sought-after by big-name international corporations such as Hermès for large commercial projects, and has been commissioned to create custom work for high-end domestic projects. Much of the acclaim Christopher Boots has received since its beginnings can be attributed to the originality, quality and authenticity of its handcrafted lighting. “Inspiration comes from anywhere and at anytime. Most days are spent in talks and little workshops with clients to come up with unique fixtures, and we relish in the challenge to create an outcome based on a collaborative approach. “Building models and sketching concepts is certainly the exciting part of running a design practice, then these ideas need to be translated into shop drawings for fabrication. The collection you see on the website is close to my dream space about nature and the building blocks of life, be it DNA or growth patterns found in flora, which is the major keystone inspiration for most of my work.” Many of Boots’ designs are influenced by the observation of growth patterns in trees and plants. Natural branching is referenced in the Phasmida lamp for instance. Perhaps one of the most impressive creations however, is the Diamond Ring light (featured right). Raw and lavish in aesthetic, drawing on notes of Greek mythology, the light is made using stunning Brazilian-mined quartz crystals that are collated to form an illuminated ring that is simplistic yet ethereal. The Diamond Ring lighting piece can be crafted to a diameter of up to two metres, carrying 39 kilograms of stone. A testament to the reputation of good Australian design, Boots’ selection of quality materials defines the authenticity of his lighting products. “Classic, timeless materials that age beautifully are always considered first and foremost. Brass, copper and bronze are used in most of the collection, along with quartz crystal, gold, silver and palladium leaf. Lighting is akin to jewellery for the home, so why not use materials to reflect this? “Sand cast bronze has been a strong material exploration in the Fitzroy studio – it’s an incredibly ancient practice which we’ve been very happy to delve into. It’s such a different experience to mould with hands as opposed to using machinery to work metal – so much more ‘human’ and tactile. “This year we’re also collaborating with glass blowers for a new collection aimed at the art market. Finishes-wise, we’re self-
taught with gilding, which imbues many surfaces with an elegance and finish that sings. Again, an old technique but one that is timeless, and I hope that we’re keeping these ancients traditions alive to pass onto a new generation,” he says. The process of production is a collaborative effort between Boots and his team of now 15 people, and stems from the design phase to exploring possible variants and moving into full-size prototyping – an expensive but rewarding process. “My artisans are like family. We meet every Monday morning and cook breakfast together in the [studio] kitchen; we talk about our weekends, gather the social temperature and then have a meeting to align the team for the week’s pressing matters ahead,” he says. As a boutique manufacturer in Australia, Christopher Boots is in a very unique position. “We have relatively high wages, suppliers of components and materials are few and far between (compared to EU or US), and the gradual gentrification of the inner city renders us a bit of an anomaly. However, the unique experience that clients have by visiting us is priceless: we actually make things right here, to order. No one does that, as it’s expensive, but tailored. “I believe that Australians have an ingenious, curious and intelligent manner to problem solve, and with that kind of education, we can easily imbue value adding into what we make. While auto manufacturing is disappearing, there are plenty of opportunities to create high-value items for the export market. I see Germany as a great example of a successful high-wages, high-value economy. We have the ability but lack the political will to guide the way,” he says. Christopher Boots sells through designoriented galleries and agents in the US, UK and in the Middle East. “Why? It’s a big world and we enjoy trading and travelling to meet different people and cultures. Australia is great but the market is only so big for high-end lighting,” he explains. Christopher Boots works with a commitment to excellence. His work marries traditional and pioneering materials with interesting techniques for the creation of stunningly unique, timeless lighting pieces. Although it is still only early days for the practice, it is evident that the output is clever and will continue to do well moving forward in a challenging industry. christopherboots.com
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First page: Christopher Boots in his Fitzroy studio. Photography by Mark Rudge. Adjacent clockwise from top left: Studio detail, Artisan working on Quadrix, BCAA and Prometheus IV detail, studio detail, Artisan working on Quadrix, studio detail. Photography by Guy Lavoipierre. Above: Diamond Ring detail. Photography by Guy Lavoipierre.
MATERIALS Copper Quartz Crystal Zink Iron Borbon Carbon Gold Silver Palladium Leaf Polymer Neodymium Gallium Lead Silicon Borosilicate Glass
furnishinginternational.com
Feature Wall : flyme2themoon, Byron Bay 2013
Ideation Design Innovation “From origin to outcome, our work is informed by a continual process of exploration and design refinement. A passion for exploring craft and detail, along with understanding material properties, provides an ongoing narrative throughout our work.” MARK SIMPSON, JOINT CREATIVE DIRECTOR AT DESIGNOFFICE
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TALKING BUSINESS: MARK TUCKEY
Talking Business:
MARK TUCKEY
Summer/Autumn 2015
TALKING BUSINESS: MARK TUCKEY
MARK TUCKEY, FOUNDER OF THE BESPOKE, SELF-TITLED FURNITURE COMPANY MARK TUCKEY, BELIEVES THAT HAVING A PASSION FOR HIS WORK HAS BEEN THE CRUCIAL DRIVING FORCE BEHIND HIS SUCCESS IN BUSINESS. HERE, WE LOOK INTO THE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY IDEALS THAT PROPEL THE BRAND FORWARD WITH A FOCUS ON THE COMPANY’S SKILLFUL USE OF RECYCLED SOLID TIMBER AND SUSTAINABLY MANAGED FORESTRY SOURCES. Words Melinda Jennings
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he cliché about humble beginnings birthing great things is a bit overdone, but it’s hard to not apply it when it’s so clearly demonstrated by MARK TUCKEY. Only 25 years ago, the man who lends his name to this now wellestablished, bespoke timber furniture company had very little to his name at all – a couple of hundred dollars, the keys to his blue F100 pickup truck, and a clear vision. There is a grassroots attitude that keeps Mark, his wife Louella, and their incredibly close-knit team of 45 employees grounded in the purpose behind what they do; simply put, because they love it. “I have no tertiary education and like many people, I have studied at the ‘university of life’. After leaving school I was never really idle, having all sorts of jobs from laboring to building, modeling ski clothing and being a private investigator, just to name a few. It’s a long list, but experience and knowledge was gained from each and every one. “My wife Louella’s background is interior styling. She worked for Terence Conran in London and that brought her to Melbourne. She went on to do freelance art direction, styling and interior design before we met and [then] she jumped onboard the MARK TUCKEY train. “We have been creating furniture together for the past 10 years now and have loved every
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TALKING BUSINESS: MARK TUCKEY
First page: Mark Tuckey dining table and eggcup stools. Photography by Lucas Allen Above left: Fitzroy showroom. Photography by Lucas Allen Above right: Biscuit bed and bedside table. Photography by Lucas Allen Adjacent clockwise from top left: Mark Tuckey at the Melbourne workshop photographed by Jason Busch, Newport Beach showroom photographed by Jason Busch, Mark and his wife and business partner Louella photographed by Jason Busch, the wrap dining table in oak surrounded by eggcup stools photographed by Cam Bloom, Newport Beach showroom photographed by Jason Busch, Fitzroy showroom photographed by by Lucas Allen
minute of it. We have a showroom in Fitzroy Melbourne and the workshop is just up the road from there. We have a second shop at Newport Beach on Sydney’s Northern beaches where we live with our two girls Chilli and Indigo and a menagerie of animals including dogs, cats, chickens, ducks and rabbits,” Tuckey explains. Tuckey’s journey has been an interesting and quite admirable one to say the least, and it’s fair to say his business savvy knack and solid key ideals have paid tribute to what the company has become today. “One of my main motivators to get up every day is to do something I love, as opposed to doing something because it makes money,” Tuckey says. In addition to being driven by a love for the trade, Tuckey is sold out on operating
Summer/Autumn 2015
according to environmentally conscious ideals – a core value that defines the company. “The passion was and is always to be involved in a creative process that is environmentally friendly,” he says. While the subject may feel tired, with the last few years in particular marked by the ‘enviro-trend’, with myriad companies in varying industries trying to make a conscience effort to practice economically and sustainably, this has been at the core of MARK TUCKEY from day one. Since it all began, more than two decades ago, Tuckey has relied on recycled solid timber as his material of choice, even when that meant collecting timber on his own from building sites using his faithful pickup. For Tuckey, it’s also about supporting local heroes. Buying from Australian
manufacturers to support local businesses is of high importance to the company. Although keeping things ‘within the family’ provides its own set of hurdles, Tuckey believes that it is well worth it. “The big challenge is to continue producing locally – however we thrive on challenge,” he says. “We love working with recycled or sustainably grown timbers. The beautiful thing about solid timber furniture is that it takes advantage of the natural features of timber including grain and colouring. Each type of timber has it’s own distinctive features allowing each piece of furniture to be varied and unique. “Trees also absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store this, therefore timber is often referred to as a carbon store, another
TALKING BUSINESS: MARK TUCKEY
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“Manufacturing in Australia is rare these days. Some see it as a challenge, however we are passionate about the integrity of our product, maintaining a low carbon footprint and supporting Australian business.�
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TALKING BUSINESS: MARK TUCKEY
Above left: Creative Director Louella Tuckey photographed by Cam Bloom Above right: eggcup stools at the Melbourne workshop
"We are always on the hunt for new materials … and new designs often evolve from that point.”
environmental benefit to choosing solid timber furniture,” says Tuckey. Using a finish such as an oil, lacquer or soap to make sure the timber is protected without losing any of its natural aesthetics, MARK TUCKEY creates furniture that is particularly complemented by white furnishings such as Carrera marble, powder-coated metals, and natural metals like copper and zinc. Timber is also nicely paired with raw linens and hemp, or leathers in shades of blonde, tan, and nutty browns – allowing it to be the true hero of the set. The inspiration behind MARK TUCKEY designs used to be primarily based on the materials at hand, which were all timbers salvaged from demolition sites. Tuckey explained however that these days “it’s bit of that and a basic design sensibility whereby we’re inspired by a shape or form and we pare back that idea as much as we can to simplify both aesthetic and production.” With its hero material at the helm of design and manufacture, MARK TUCKEY seldom follows ‘fashion’, however the company’s designs are a tad partial to Scandinavian design, something Tuckey acknowledges. “We are always on the hunt for new materials … and new designs often evolve from that point,” he adds. Tuckey explained that designing furniture is much more than just creating a sum of parts that will serve a certain form or function, it’s about creating a timeless piece that will last for years to come. Not everyone finds a career that genuinely drives him or her, but the team at MARK TUCKEY seems to have done it and it translates in everything they create. Their vision runs quite parallel to the timber they use for their furniture, in that it is clear, uncomplicated, and built to last through the changing trends of the industry. “Our aim is to always create furniture that has integrity, simplicity and strength.” marktuckey.com.au
Summer/Autumn 2015
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TALKING BUSINESS: WARWICK
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Talking Business:
WARWICK
AS EXPECTATION BUILDS IN THE LEAD UP TO WARWICK FABRIC’S IMMINENT TRADE-ONLY EVENT, FURNISHING IN FOCUS, WE GET DOWN TO BUSINESS WITH JOHN MACKINNON, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF WARWICK FABRICS’ AUSTRALIA FURNITURE RETAIL AND MANUFACTURING DIVISION, WHO TALKS TO US ABOUT THE EVENT’S POINT OF DIFFERENCE AND ITS PARTNERSHIP WITH AUSTRALIAN MADE, WHILE TAKING US BEHIND THE SCENES OF ITS OPERATION AND PURPOSE. FURNISHING IN FOCUS WILL BE HELD AT THE MELBOURNE CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE FROM 2–3 JUNE 2015. Interview Elena Papargiris
Summer/Autumn 2015
TALKING BUSINESS: WARWICK
What is Furnishing in Focus? [The event initially called] ‘Furniture in Focus’ (FIF) was launched in response to requests from Australia’s Furniture Manufacturers, frustrated by an increasing presence of imports at National Furniture exhibitions and their need for a more cost effective way to expose their products to trade buyers. In 2009 Warwick showrooms were offered to manufacturers to display their product. However, the spaces available were far too limited. As a result, FIF was launched in South Australia in May of 2010, followed by all other states in September and October of that year. The concept was, and still is, a simple one. To offer a low cost exhibition, excluding imported products. It remains as a non-profit operation with administration carried out by Warwick personnel. These exhibitions continued to grow in popularity and in 2011, the exhibition name was registered as ‘Furnishing in Focus’ to embrace soft furnishings together with case goods, solid timber and bedding manufacturers. Further exhibitions were held in each state in 2012 and 2013. In 2014, it was decided that sufficient demand had grown to establish FIF as a national show that required more promotion to encourage a larger and broader number of trade visitors. In 2015, Furnishing in Focus will be held for the first time at The National Exhibition Centre in Southbank, Melbourne, with an expanded display area comprising over 40 of Australia’s top manufacturers. How important is it for furnishing industry professionals to be attending trade events such as FIF? Past experience has demonstrated that industry buyers have been surprised and impressed by the variety of well-designed, well-priced, Australian made furniture that is available. Procurements of overseas furniture with long lead times, limited options, and often uncertified quality are made unnecessary by the availability of locally produced product tested to Australian quality standards and supported by personalised after sales service facilities. The ‘tyranny of distance’ no longer exists between overseas trends and local availability. World standard design and quality is now readily accessible, with improved stock turns for discerning retailers. Furthermore, by attending trade events of this type, industry professionals can be truly focused on meeting key furniture exhibitors with quality time to spend, without the distractions of previous ‘market bazaar’ exhibitions.
The opportunity to interrelate with others also provides great networking opportunities. What part does FIF play in light of the larger Warwick brand? Furnishing in Focus has become a significant part of Warwick Fabrics’ contribution to the broader furnishing industry. No longer a simple means by which upholstery manufacturers can show off the latest Warwick range; the exhibition now embraces all manufacturers of furniture, furnishings and bedding made in Australia. In addition, the Warwick Fabrics ‘Vice Award’ which acknowledges the long-term contribution of individuals to the industry, is announced each year at the exhibition cocktail party. In 2015, three separate awards will be announced, covering 2015 and retrospective years of 2014 and 2013. This involvement in promoting the interests of Australian made manufacturing is one way in which Warwick Fabrics can be seen to be giving back to an Industry with which it has been involved with for nearly 50 years. How is Furnishing In Focus different from other trade events of a similar nature and what does the 2015 show aim to achieve? FIF is different in several important areas: it is totally confined to products made in Australia, it occupies only one setup day and two major exhibition days so that exhibitors may participate with minimal interruption to their normal working week, FIF is restricted to trade only customers so that exhibitors may comfortably converse with prospective clients without interruption, the general public is not invited, and the cost of FIF is readily affordable and display areas are easy to set up and dismantle. In light of your partnership with Australian Made, what are your thoughts on the importance of Australian made and manufactured product? The increasing consumer awareness of the Australian Made logo and its significance has continued to highlight the importance of customised furniture production. It is not so much about buying Australian made to save jobs, but to offer the consumer the chance to individually decorate their home or project in their own personal style. Exhibitors who are Australian Made licensees will proudly promote the distinctive green and gold kangaroo logo – something which retail customers are encouraged to adopt at point of sale to highlight Australian made products.
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What are your projections for 2015 design trends? Everything old is new again. Prints are back with fresh new ‘painterly’ designs and colours; providing wonderful accents in combination with high functionality furniture plains. Designs vary from classic kilims and ikats to bold geometrics and new contemporary impressionist florals. In jacquard wovens and in prints, highlight colours range from limes, teals, pinks and yellows, all the way to monochromatic black/ white combinations. In 2015 we know that our customers who follow Pantone trends will be looking for ‘Marsala’ as a highlight colour. For body cloth sofa fabrics, grey is the new option to beige and browns. What are your thoughts on the designer/ manufacturer relationship and bridging the gap? We think it’s fair to say that many designers may be unaware of the blank canvas that exists with Australia’s furniture manufacturers, each of whom are willing and ready to engage in developing new styles and combinations and to work to specific project briefs with our design customers. FIF is helping to expose Australia’s manufacturers to the design community, some of whom have already breathed a sigh of relief that they no longer need to search offshore to satisfy their client requirements. How do you perceive the industry’s current climate and where do you see it headed? Needless to say there has been an attrition rate since the much talked about GFC. In many ways this has been for the good of the industry. A consolidation of key manufacturers and retailers has occurred so that those who have come through this time have had the potential not just to ‘survive’ but to ‘thrive’. Despite industry concerns about the ravages of online retailing, it seems apparent that consumer decisions about furniture products are still very much of the ‘feely/touchy’ variety, so our industry is still relatively safe from online competition. Retailers can prosper with a solid combination of a customer friendly website and bricks and mortar showrooms. Do you have any advice for budding designers and manufacturers? Travel! If possible, physically leave home, and attend the world’s major exhibitions. There is simply no substitute for seeing and mixing with the world’s best. furnishinginfocus.com.au
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AN UNWAVERING RESPECT FOR INSTINCTUAL CREATIVITY IS AT THE CRUX OF 3GATTI’S ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNS. WITH MORE THAN A DECADES’ EXPERIENCE IN THE INDUSTRY, FRANCESCO GATTI’S WORK IS SOMETHING TO BE ADMIRED. HERE, GATTI SHARES HOW CONSTRUCTING HIS OWN PIÈCE DE RÉSISTANCE IN DOWNTOWN SHANGHAI REQUIRED MORE THAN JUST OBJECTIVE EXPERIENCE. Words Emily Sparshott Photography Shen Qiang
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ushing the boundaries of materiality in architectural design is perhaps the pinnacle of today’s industry. Indeed, having access to a range of interesting and inspiring materials is arguably just as important to architects as a design’s blueprint, and achieving a space that is visually compelling encourages both wonder and excitement in its visitors. The SND concept store, created by Francesco Gatti of 3GATTI, is the embodiment of daring architectural design. A space that is both dreamlike and functional, Gatti has pushed the boundaries of modern architecture, resulting in a visual feast for residents of Shanghai. Gatti is the founder and chief architect of 3GATTI, a firm of architects, designers, builders and artists based in Rome and Shanghai. With a firm belief in architectural innovation and a commitment to design excellence, 3GATTI has paved its way to becoming an internationally recognised tour de force, securing a number of high profile public, commercial and cultural projects. The company’s design philosophy focuses on the idea that contemporary life is in a state of constant change and fluidity, and this is the
driving force for its pursuance of innovative and imaginative projects. Furthermore, this particular ethos, according to Gatti, all possibly stems from his own humble beginnings. “[My love for architecture] probably all began during my autistic childhood, when without any contact with the outside world, I was forced to have a huge interior world full of visions and imagination. I started this period thinking and drawing [my] first spaces and inventions,” explains Gatti. After studying and practicing in Italy, Scotland and the Netherlands, Gatti established 3GATTI in 2002 in Rome, and subsequently opened a second branch in Shanghai in 2004 – the two cities offering the company a perfect combination of artistic expression and progressive practice. With feet firmly planted in two dynamic cities, Gatti recognises the importance of attaining knowledge and experience in varying fields of the industry. “We don’t like to be specialised in [particular] fields, so we work at all scales always hoping to be contaminated by different disciplines,” Gatti says. It is 3GATTI’s open-minded approach
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First page: The mirror wall disappears, giving the illusion of an unlimited space Left: Clothes hang from the ceiling as if pulling it down Above: Interior perspective Next page left: Thick grey felt used for product displays Next page right: The ceiling filters the light
to architectural design that was behind the inception of the SND concept store, a space buried in the basement of a brand new skyscraper in bustling Chongqing. “[Like] all my projects, the SND concept didn’t come from rational thinking and planning, but from an accidental vision [and] intuition [that] slowly emerged from a deep subconscious level,” describes Gatti. The SND concept store has firm foundations in the depths of Gatti’s imagination. The aesthetics of the store originated from the idea of an elastic ceiling being pulled from the sky by the weight of imaginary objects. While this concept may sound a little far-fetched to some, it is these types of seemingly unusual designs in which Gatti thrives. “A good space is like a good movie or painting; you don’t need a rational explanation to appreciate it, you just have
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“[Like] all my projects, the SND concept didn’t come from rational thinking and planning, but from an accidental vision [and] intuition [that] slowly emerged from a deep subconscious level.”
to trust your intuition. [Sometimes] an explanation [may] even ruin the experience,” he says. However fantastical ideas can become, to make these visions a reality, architects need to follow a clear, precise and methodical plan in order to capture its true potential. Gatti explains, “Once the SND vision was there I had to make use of my rational side and architectural experience ... [this] was useful [in order] to match the practical reality and function with the image of the dream.” When putting his knowledge into practice, Gatti describes that similar to all the best love stories, there are always obstacles in the construction process that architects need to overcome. For example, 3GATTI’s biggest challenge was finding the perfect material and design to balance their client’s budget with very strict fire bureau requirements, as well
as still respecting Gatti’s own unique vision. What resulted was the visual masterpiece that is the SND concept store. Covering a total floor area of 180 metressquared, the SND concept store’s appeal is almost wholly due to its clever use of interesting, complementary materials. The ceiling is undeniably the most impressive aspect of the space. With its drooping shape and sleek edges, it certainly encapsulates the feeling of elasticity. Not just a pretty façade, the ceiling’s format encourages visitors to engage with the space while they peruse the garments hung from its edges. To achieve the ceiling’s aesthetic, Gatti ordered 10,000 varying pieces of thin, white fibreglass, each cut with machine-precision. While the unusual pieces of fibreglass used for the ceiling primarily acts as visual stimuli for visitors, Gatti also ensured that it was useful
for more than just appealing aesthetics. “The fibreglass was the only material [that was] fire resistant, thin enough to be easily cut and [contained] the right colour to reflect [and] refract light coming [through] the top ceiling,” Gatti explains. Similarly, the implementation of dark recycled timber acts as a warm, cosy material to contrast the glacial-feel of the fibreglass ceiling. Thick grey felt was used for the furniture, cash desk and product displays, and glass mirror adorns the remainder of the walls to create a feeling of infinity. With Gatti’s clever use of materials – especially with its ingenious ceiling – the space awakens the senses and positively challenges the visitor’s attention. An architectural wonderment has to achieve both design mastery and functionality, as its appeal offers more than just visual
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“Architecture needs more heart. Like everything else in the westernised world, architecture is becoming too rational and scientifically-correct.”
stimuli. With the lean toward sustainability in modern architecture, a space that inherits green practices represents a positive nod to the future, which Gatti has clearly done. “The fibreglass [used] is sustainable due to its composition, [and] is known for its very low total energy [that is] required to produce the product from the raw materials stage through [to the] delivery of fibreglass products. [It] is also a recyclable material. “The glass walls are also recyclable and the timber was second-hand,” describes Gatti. Brilliant architectural design with a purpose is the essence of the SND concept store. While some may be initially staggered at the sheer grandiosity of the establishment, Gatti has found that the majority of its visitors have had an overwhelmingly positive retail experience. “Everybody is very enthusiastic. [This is] hopefully because it touches people on a subconscious level, so they like it, even if they don’t know why.” The SND concept store has been a great
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achievement for 3GATTI, so much so that Gatti says the client has asked 3GATTI to create a second store with the same concept. With the triumphant success of an establishment created purely from a dream of its founding father, 3GATTI looks toward a steady and prosperous future. So what exactly can architectural firms take away from Gatti’s experience, and what does he think cements long-term success? Gatti believes that a thriving business needs not only technical knowledge, but has to be willing to uncover its intuition and soul. “Architecture needs more heart. Like everything else in the westernised world, architecture is becoming too rational and scientifically-correct. It’s like a world with all males without the balance [provided] by females,” Gatti states. With this ideology set firmly in 3GATTI’s ethos, the company has a number of projects planned for the future, namely two massive parks with an impressive 18 pavilions for the 2015 Wuhan Garden Expo.
A surrealist’s dream such as the SND concept store fulfils more than just visual wonder. The deliberate use of materials that are as compelling as they are useful results in a tangible representation of Gatti’s commitment to achieving the seemingly unachievable, and no doubt we will lay witness to spaces of similar marvel in the future. 3gatti.com
MATERIALS Fibreglass Recycled timber Glass Thick grey felt
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Industry “I believe that Australians have an ingenious, curious and intelligent manner to problem solve and with that kind of education we can easily imbue value adding into what we make. While auto manufacturing is disappearing, there’s plenty of opportunities to create high-value items for the export market.” CHRISTOPHER BOOTS
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Food for Thought MELBOURNE’S FOODIE CULTURE IS VIBRANT AND VARIED, AND IT’S NOT SURPRISING THE DESIGN AND FIT-OUT OF ITS HUNDREDS OF RESTAURANTS AND CAFÉS HAVE FOLLOWED SUIT. HERE, MARK SIMPSON, JOINT CREATIVE DIRECTOR AT DESIGNOFFICE, EXPLAINS HOW HIS CREATIVE COLLABORATION OF A SEEMINGLY HUMBLE, SCANDINAVIAN-STYLE DESIGN HAS ALLOWED FOR A POINT OF DIFFERENCE IN THE HEART OF MELBOURNE’S CBD. Words Emily Sparshott Photography Haydn Cattach
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n emphasis on maintaining a strong artistic and culturallyaware society is perhaps the reason why Melbourne is lauded as one of the most livable cities in the world. Certainly, Melbourne’s unique penchant for fusing art with food and drink is every foodie’s dream. Filter, a temporary café located in Melbourne’s bustling CBD, provides visitors with filter coffee and smørrebrød – a Danish open sandwich – to enjoy. A space that exudes Scandinavian simplicity, Filter is the creative collaboration of DesignOffice and client Andrew Kelly from Small Batch. Effortless and clean but produced with sophisticated and minute detail, Filter is a haven for food lovers. DesignOffice’s roots date back to 2004, when Damien Mulvihill and Mark Simpson became friends while working together at Universal Design Studio in London. Returning to Melbourne, Mulvihill and Simpson joined forces to eventually establish DesignOffice. With shared experience in the architectural and interior design industry, the direction for the duo’s company was simple. “DesignOffice is committed to creating confident and personable responses to client briefs. We aim to shape our design responses with an understanding and empathy towards each client and every brief. The studio strives to create responsive, authentic and emotional environments, providing intelligent and creative solutions to individual project requirements,” explains Simpson. “From origin to outcome, our work is informed by a continual process of exploration and design refinement. A
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passion for exploring craft and detail, along with understanding material properties, provides an ongoing narrative throughout our work.” Not content with fixating on one particular facet of the industry, DesignOffice covers everything from brand strategy and place-making through to bespoke joinery commissions and installation design. Encompassing hospitality, retail, residential, commercial and institutional sectors, the firm has built an invaluable rapport with their client base. “We’re really fortunate to work with clients with genuine creative ambition regardless of their size or typology of their brief,” adds Simpson. A precise and thorough design brief provided by Small Batch was the beginning of the creative partnership. For DesignOffice, expanding their repertoire and working with a multitude of varying clients is imperative to the success of their business. When presented with Kelly’s vision, Simpson was impressed. “The brief from [Kelly] was great. It didn’t include images or reference other cafés, but distilled a vision to create a unique environment focused on food and drink and how this would be served. It called for an environment which would be a conscious counterpoint to Auction Rooms – Andrew’s revered cafe in North Melbourne – designed specifically to align with the clean taste of filter coffee and elegant simplicity of smørrebrød. “The vision specifically called for a design which would make filter coffee easy, accessible and unpretentious, offering customers the option of both ready-to-go and custom filter coffee,” says Simpson.
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“The design was born from a series of diagrams which distilled customer journeys and movements, resulting in the simple two-counter arrangement. These locally crafted bespoke island units are intended to be the focus of Filter, with the surrounding context providing a simple and harmonious backdrop.”
First page: Custom-made American Ash boards on the HI-MACS counter Top left: Perforated metal screen for holding water glasses and screening the espresso machine Top right: The view on entry towards the service counter Bottom: Seating at the second island in the window
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While the brief called for a sleek and seemingly uncomplicated design, the project’s shell contained a history far from simple. A site rich in heritage, the original establishment of Federal Coffee Palace dates back to 1888, with 555 Collins Place built thereafter in the mid-1970s. Simpson describes that the uncertainty of redevelopment had rendered the space empty for several years. Fortunately however, his client recognised its distinct potential. “It’s a wonderfully noble building and Andrew spotted the potential of the ground floor space to experiment with a new hospitality model whilst it was sitting empty,” Simpson describes. In spite of its wonderful promise, working within the confines of an aged establishment can have its drawbacks, and the obstacles in the space were apparent to DesignOffice from the very outset. “The ceiling was the greatest unknown for us. We could see from removing a few ceiling tiles that there was a stunning coffered concrete soffit, but we didn’t know what else was up there. As expected, there were a number of services, ducts, cables and sprinklers to contend with, but some careful editing allowed us to strip back and reveal the majority of the coffers. “The other challenge of the site was its size and irregular form. The space which was leased was too large for the requirements and confusing in form, [however] the tonally washed timber screens which slot together
to form perimeter walls were developed to create a more regular and focused footprint,” Simpson explains. With the plethora of restaurants, cafés and eateries available to Melbourne dwellers, a point of difference is essential when designing a new space in the heart of the city. It is with this in mind that interesting and well-thought materials are incorporated into the project to be both visually appealing and practical. As pictured, the two island counters are the focal point of the project, and as Simpson explains, the counters were carefully designed with the customer in mind. “The design was born from a series of diagrams which distilled customer journeys and movements, resulting in the simple twocounter arrangement. These locally crafted bespoke island units are intended to be the focus of Filter, with the surrounding context providing a simple and harmonious backdrop. “The two island counters are wonderfully crafted items. We worked with John Beckwith, a furniture maker in Brunswick ... despite being relatively cost-effective units, we wanted them to be highly considered and of the highest quality possible ... [Beckwith’s] commitment to resolve and refine these counters was a highlight of the process,” Simpson says. Around the two-counter centrepiece, the Scandinavian-style design naturally built itself. “As the lease on the space is only shortterm, we had to be conscious of where we focused the budget. We worked to ensure that
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high-quality materials were those which the customers would engage with directly ... [we] didn’t want the space to feel temporary or like a ‘pop-up’. “The palette was deliberately limited in response to the brief. American ash was selected, as it has a very pure tone and worked well with the palette of timber stains we were using. “Perforated metal was selected as it provides a level of screening, but allows light transmission. The colouration in black and white, as well as the perforated nature [of the metal] also provided a subtle reference back to the filtration process coffee goes through. “Around this, the palette is deliberately tonal and soft to give the bones of the building space to breathe, and to ensure that the food and drink on offer has visual weight in the space. “The bead-blasted stainless steel finish was selected in order to enjoy the benefits of the functionality of stainless steel but with a softer and darker matte finish. “[Finally] HI-MACS in a warm, white tone was selected, as it is one of the few materials
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which could be finished on-site to provide a six-metre long counter with no joins. The durability of this surface is also a huge benefit, and the warm white was selected specifically to highlight the cleanliness of the filter coffee offered,” Simpson describes. An extremely specific brief with clever and symbolic materials used, Filter’s design and fit-out is clean and simple to its core. DesignOffice’s collaborative approach to their work proved not only successful, but satisfying. “The most enjoyable part of the project was the journey with such an engaged and hands-on client. Small Batch was involved in every stage, testing and questioning every decision and material. We really enjoy creating models and mock-ups and it’s great when a client is so involved in that process and cares about every detail as much as we do,” says Simpson. Having received a high commendation for Best Temporary Space at the Eat Drink Design Awards, DesignOffice’s reputation for producing great projects is certainly recognised in the industry. With the development of
Below: View across the brew counter back to King Street
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townhouses in Fitzroy, private residential commissions, a new prototype workplace in Perth and the opening of the second international Mud Australia store, the company has plenty to look forward to in the future. Simple and polished in design, the Filter café offers visitors more than a sleek aesthetic. Small Batch’s extensive experience and knowledge in the hospitality industry allowed DesignOffice to create a space that truly reflected the client’s wishes. With an aim to work on a multitude of varying projects, DesignOffice’s portfolio is superb – with Filter café being no exception. designoffice.com.au
MATERIALS American Ash Wood Perforated metal HI-MACS
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TRADE SHOWS
Trade Shows PRESENTING A FRESH DESIGN FRONT TO COMMENCE 2015’S TRADE SHOW CALENDAR, THE YEAR’S EARLY TRADE EVENTS JUST PASSED HAVE SET THE SCENE FOR WHAT’S TO COME, COLOURED BY NEW PRODUCTS, TRENDS AND INDUSTRY THEMES. DELVE INTO OUR TOP FIVE POST-SHOW PICKS FOR INSPIRATION AND INSIGHT, BEFORE DELVING INTO NEXT SEASON’S MOST ANTICIPATED UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR FOR DATES TO MARK IN YOUR PLANNER.
Above: Baumann at immCologne
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IMM COLOGNE + LIVING KITCHEN COLOGNE, GERMANY | 19–25 JANUARY 2015 Photography Koelnmesse
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he trade fair duo imm cologne and LivingKitcnen closed their doors on Sunday the 25th of January after a positive seven days that saw 146,000 visitors from 138 countries visit the Cologne exhibition grounds. Among them were 102,000 industry visitors from the national and international trade – a significant increase since 2013, which saw only 99,000 industry visitors in comparison. “These figures prove that the international appeal of the two events in Cologne has grown even more… this is a great indication for Cologne as a trade fair location and confirms the effectiveness of imm cologne and LivingKitchen as a marketing tool,” concludes Gerald Böse, President and Chief Executive Officer of Koelnmesse GmbH. As in previous years, imm cologne 2015 presented top-class supporting events and activities including the walk-in ‘Das Haus – Interiors on Stage’ installation based on plans by neri & hu design and research office, Shanghai. Shanghai-based architects Lyndon Neri and Rossana Hu showcased an installation titled ‘Memory Lane’, which, inspired by the Shanghai Lane Houses, combined Chinese tradition with contemporary design and sparked intriguing talks on housing rituals. The Interiors Innovation Awards were this year won by 15 products including Wood and Washi’s Turnalux (wood blind) and Hansgrohe SE Axor Starck V (washbasin mixers). Another highlight was the Sleep Lounge – celebrating the 9th anniversary of the Sleep segment with a film, highlighting the best
scenes of the past years in the lounge cinema of sleep. The Lounge was decorated with motifs from the anniversary film itself and from the classic cinema of the ‘50s and ‘60s. Thonet this year expanded the ‘Pure Materials’ collection with the addition of the famous bentwood classics – grained leather, natural wood and a careful handling of the materials that characterise the sustainable collection. The Global Networking Lounge welcomed visitors from Canada, China, Russia, Turkey, Brazil and the U.S. to establish and strengthen contacts with exhibitors at imm cologne and LivingKitchen. In parallel with imm cologne, international kitchen event LivingKitchen once again proved to be a powerful attraction, where 215 exhibitors from 22 countries showcased their innovative designs. The event was highlighted by advanced presentations by manufacturers, world-first premiers of new kitchen furniture, appliances, accessories and cooking shows. imm cologne will partner up with LivingInteriors in 2016 from 18–24 January, and the trade fair duo of imm cologne and LivingKitchen will be held again in 2017 from 18–22 January. imm-cologne.com livingkitchen-cologne.com
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MAISON&OBJET PARIS, FRANCE | 23–27 JANUARY 2015 Photography Benoît Lineiro
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his year marked the 20th edition of MAISON&OBJET PARIS. The event’s purpose, which was initiated 20 years ago and is still the focus today, is ‘to open the doors to new market and business opportunities for designers, craftspeople, manufacturers, brands and distributors from the diverse décor and design sectors’ – and that it does. The 2015 show was a celebration of the building of a multifaceted identity and lifestyle – a tough benchmark to match – and was themed MAKE, interpreted by three trend areas including Nature Made, Human Made and Techno Made. The Designer of the Year January 2015 was awarded to Nendo (Oki Sato). Other highlights included birthday cake tasting, cook+ design Studio, a relaxation area, interior decoration hall and Ateliers d’Art de France exhibition – Build. For the first time this year, MAISON & OBJET PARIS organised a competition with its six Talents à la Carte to determine which of them would represent Mexico at the premiere of MAISON&OBJET AMERICAS. The fair’s community was encouraged to vote for their favourite talent on facebook and the winner was Studio davidpompa, with over 4,000 likes. MAISON&OBJET PARIS 2015 saw 78,000 unique visitors including buyers and professionals and 129,430 visits including 49 per cent French
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and 51 per cent international. There were 3,194 exhibitors, among which 45 per cent were French and 55 per cent international. “After 20 years of change and growth, MAISON&OBJET PARIS now has distinctive content that unfailingly stirs a growing international community into action. Our ambition is to keep pace with market changes by offering a unique platform for dialogue, encounters, business and information, to be a catalyst for all those in design who enjoy gathering in Paris twice a year, but now in Singapore and Miami Beach, as well. “What’s more, it now seems more essential than ever to give visitors the chance to savour incomparable experiences, and we do this by giving carte blanche to top design talents, as is done in this show’s special sections by the teamLab group and Nendo,” says Philippe Brocart, Managing Director of SAFI, the MAISON&OBJET event organiser. MAISON&OBJET PARIS will be held again from 4–8 September this year. maison-objet.com/en/paris
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LAS VEGAS MARKET LAS VEGAS, UNITED STATES | 18–22 JANUARY 2015
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he Las Vegas Winter Market this year registered the highest attendance in numbers in the market’s 10-year history with an overall growth of 11 per cent in comparison to Winter 2014, and a 21 per cent jump in attendance in the gift and home décor segment. Las Vegas Market presents a cross-section of 2,200+ resources twice a year in the home décor, furniture and gift sectors. This edition, the event attracted more than 7,800 first time domestic buyers, with 30 per cent of these coming from California, which was also the top state for overall attendance. “Virtually every showroom on every floor was abuzz with activity,” said Bob Maricich, Chief Executive Officer of International Market Centers. Highlights included the soft launch of C5 – a new boutique showroom for home décor and high-end home textiles – as well as having more than 225 first-time exhibitors in attendance. Tommy Mitchell, co-owner and founder of Tommy Mitchell, one of the C5 charter tenants, said, “The traffic is good and we are seeing a large percentage of qualified people. We are very excited about the next show and the full launch of C5. There are lots of customers here that don’t know who we are because we are primarily on the east coast.”
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An increase of 13 per cent was recorded for international attendance, with visitors coming from more than 102 countries, and this year’s edition attracted an increased number of interior designers – up 34.5 per cent since last edition. This was spurred by the fact that Las Vegas Winter Market was strategically timed to coincide with the annual Design & Construction Week, which brings together five leading design and construction industry trade events in Las Vegas. The upcoming Las Vegas Summer Market will be held from 2–6 August 2015 and will mark the event’s 10 year anniversary celebration. The Summer Market will debut the addition of two floors dedicated to the outdoor furniture industry. So far, more than 13 leading casual manufacturers have already signed long-term leases with Las Vegas Market. lasvegasmarket.com
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STOCKHOLM FURNITURE & LIGHT FAIR STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN | 3–7 FEBRUARY 2015
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he emphasis on this year’s edition of Stockholm Furniture & Light Fair was design. Well-known and visited to for its excellent display of Scandinavian furniture and lighting, the February 2015 edition was no exception. The city was vibrant with design, business and parties in the name of Stockholm Design Week, which is held in parallel with around 60 design events sprawled across Stockholm. With the trade fair in amidst the buzz, visitor numbers were no doubt impressive, attracting almost 40,000 visitors. International interest is continuing to grow for the fair, with 6,635 people visiting from foreign countries – an increase of more than 15 per cent compared to last year. The visitors came from more than 60 countries, with the most representation from Norway (1,720), Finland (1,177) and Denmark (970). In attendance were architects, designers and journalists from more than 80 countries. More than 700 companies, of which 300 are international, took up exhibition space across the show floor. The event included ‘Question Time’ – a lounge and installation by the year’s guest of honour, Ilse Crawford – one of the most influential women in design in the United Kingdom. A highlight, the ‘Inside Scandinavian Design’ feature, was defined by an exhibition on the work and values within the Scandinavian furniture industry, taking visitors behind the scenes to unpack the objectives
behind the nation’s distinctive furniture designs. Inside Scandinavian Design was a result of the collaborative efforts of Stockholm Furniture & Light Fair and TMF, The Swedish Federation of Wood and Furniture, and was created by the design duo, Färg & Blanche. The fair’s arena for established Nordic designers was dubbed ‘Twelve’ as it presented the work of 12 Nordic designers. Curator, Johanna Agerman Ross, Editor-in-Chief of Disegno Magazine set the scene, a scene that was designed by Folkform – one of the twelve exhibitors. Other special additions included ‘The Design Bar’ – offering a palette of Norrland’s colours, materials and flavours, with a clearly modern twist, ‘Greenhouse’ – where 33 designers and 30 design schools from 13 countries participated in the hall for young designers, and ‘Stockholm Design Talks’ – this year’s theme being ‘Tales of Creativity’. Another highlight worthy of mention was ‘Materials & CSR’ created by Materialbiblioteket, which presented different materials and manufacturing techniques, highlighting environmentally smart arguments for materials. Visit the Stockholm Furniture & Light Fair website for details on the next edition of the event. stockholmfurniturefair.com
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THE ATLANTA INTERNATIONAL GIFT & HOME FURNISHINGS MARKET ATLANTA GEORGIA, UNITED STATES | 6–13 JANUARY 2015
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he largest of all 14 markets to be held at AmericasMart annually is The Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market, which closed its eight-day run on Tuesday January 13. Exhibitors were sprawled across the 7.2 million-square-foot floor of the AmericasMart complex and reported the highest volume of sales since 2007. Order writing was fast, fuelled by hundreds of product premieres and the launching of new lines. The Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market was this year, in its 58th edition, marked by a long list of firsts. The event saw the opening of the Designer Workspace, characterised by continuing education seminars and presentations by celebrated designers and leaders, which this year included Bobby McAlpine, Susan Ferrier, Pantone and Benjamin Moore to name a few, as well as the
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launch of the very first Atlanta Market Interior Design Camp summit, that brought together over 600 designers this edition. More than 2,000 people attended the inaugural Party on Peachtree 2015, which has become the home and gift industry’s newest celebration in honour of the continuing work of Gift For Life (GFL) and Young Gift Executives (YGE). Hosted by AmericasMart Atlanta with presenting sponsor Poo-Pourri, the January sell-out delivered the single-largest attendance for any fundraiser in Gift For Life’s 25-year history. The Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market was highlighted by a comprehensive schedule of over 150 events and seminars that were held throughout the week, including the Temporaries for the first time, and Downtown Atlanta. americasmart.com
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UPCOMING SHOWS
11–15 MARCH 2015
18–22 MARCH 2015
TIFF
CIFF
BANGKOK, THAILAND
GUANGZHOU, CHINA
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perating under the banner-head ‘The Heart of ASEAN Smart Living’, Thailand’s premier furniture, décor and lifestyle trade fair, Thailand International Furniture Fair is back this March. Showcasing urban chic furniture, innovative ideas and clever designs to serve varying lifestyles, the event aims to accommodate for all its international visitors with a comprehensive show floor. The ‘Eco-Friendly Furniture’ section will exhibit the creative design and manufacturing processes of eco-friendly furniture, while the ‘50 Up Lifestyle Furniture’ section aims to accommodate the preferences of the older adult population. The ‘SOOK’ concept at this year’s event, which is short for ‘Small Order OK’, and is translated as happiness, was developed to satisfy the needs of niche markets such as hotels, resorts, restaurants and condominiums, to contract projects that require tailor-made furniture. Open days for the trade run from 11–13 March, and for the public, from 14–15 March. thailandfurniturefair.com
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he first phase of China International Furniture Fair (CIFF) will be held at the China Import & Export Fair Complex in Pazhou, Guangzhou and will be premised around the theme of ‘Whole Home Décor’. Celebrating its 35th year, CIFF 2015 intends to reflect the evolution and integration of decoration in furnishings and to offer products of different styles and typology in the categories of home furnishings, outdoor and leisure furniture, accessories and décor and textiles. The 370,000 square metre show floor will be divided into thematic pavilions including international brands, design hall, soft decorations, custom-made furniture, as well as kids and teenagers. The upcoming fair will incorporate more international exhibitors and will offer more diversified product design, as well as a smoother exchange experience. The second phase of CIFF 2015 will take place from March 28 – April 1 and will shine the spotlight on the world of the service industry, showcasing office furniture, hotel furnishings, accessories, metal furniture, waiting areas, furniture for public spaces, as well as machinery and raw materials. The September edition of CIFF 2015 will be held in Shanghai at the new National Convention & Exhibition Center close to the airport of Honqiao, from 8–12 September. ciff.fairwindow.com
Summer/Autumn 2015
UPCOMING SHOWS
14–19 APRIL 2015
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21–27 APRIL 2015
SALONE DEL MOBILE
JINHAN FAIR FOR HOME & GIFTS
MILAN, ITALY
GUANGZHOU CHINA
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ne of the most anticipated industry events of the year, the 54th edition of Salone del Mobile Milan is just weeks away. Held during Milan Design Week, the leading international manufacturers will unite to present their latest products, materials and technology to set the tone for furnishing trends for the year ahead. Now with the new president, Roberto Snaidero at the helm, there are many new ideas. “We believe it’s important to recognise that the Salone del Mobile is the furnishing showcase par excellence for the world as a whole, not just for Italy,” says president Roberto Snaidero. “This is why the key global sectoral players choose Milan, frequented by all the leading international operators and journalists, to premiere their products. This is the great strength of the Milan Salone del Mobile.” The Salone del Mobile 2015 will be accompanied by the International Furnishing Accessories Exhibition, SaloneSatellite and the biennial Euroluce/International Lighting Exhibition and Workplace3.0/SaloneUfficio. Expectations are high for the 700 young designers attending from around the world, chosen to participate in the 18th edition of SaloneSatellite, the event dedicated to emerging designers under 35. Another expected highlight is the ‘IN ITALY’ multimedia installation hosted by the Salone pavilions by the architectural practice Four in the Morning – a design by architect Dario Curatolo, complete with app.
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he 31st edition of Jinhan Fair for Home & Gifts is just around the corner and expectations are high, with all booths having fully booked out just shortly after they were opened for reservation. Over 83,000 square metres of the Poly World Trade Center Expo, more than 800 exhibitors will showcase their latest offerings including Fuzhou MinHou Minxing Knitting Co. and Fujian Anxi Yingfa Furniture Decoration Co. to name but a few, to over 50,000 expected buyers. The theme for this year will be home furnishing ornaments and decorative furniture. The fair intends to exhibit thousands of new products from the ‘Six Product Series, as well as through the ‘Home Furnishing Lightings’ and ‘Outdoor Gardening’ sections. Analysis from the past 30 Jinhan Fair editions showed persistent participants and visitors from the U.S., Germany, France, UK, Japan, Switzerland, South America, Australia, Korea, Italy, Spain, Denmark and Finland to name a few of the main regions. At the conclusion of the 30th edition of Jinhan Fair, general Manager Lin Liqu of Fuzhou Homebroad Arts & Crafts Co., Ltd. said, “The foreign trade market is constantly changing, but the core remains intact: products are and will always be the magic weapon for an enterprise to thrive in the market. Only when you make really good products can you form a positive cycle and attract more and more buyers to cooperate with you.” jinhanfair.com
salonemilano.it
furnishinginternational.com
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UPCOMING SHOWS
27–29 APRIL 2015
28–30 APRIL 2015
PROPOSTE
DESIGNBUILD
CERNOBBIO, ITALY
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
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he 23rd edition of Proposte will open its doors on the 27th of April at Villa Erba in Cernobbio, Italy and will be structured around the theme ‘Feeding the Planet – Energy for Life’. The most significant change that will mark this year’s event is the Proposte Board of Directors’ decision to allow companies from outside of Europe to exhibit at Proposte from now on. Proposte has previously only hosted European exhibitors. This decision to open the doors to only the best non-European textile industries was intended to give the organisation a change of direction, however the selection and qualification criteria pursued since Proposte’s first edition will not be altered in any way, and all new exhibitors must adhere. Only high-profile production companies, recognised for the high level of their collections, their fair trade and compliance with international rules of ethics and sustainability will therefore have access to Proposte. The first three companies admitted into the new cycle manufacture in Turkey and operate worldwide. One of the most exclusive fair’s on the trade show calendar, only textile editors, manufacturers of upholstered furniture, wholesalers, converters, buying group and contract operators are admitted, by invitation only, to the fair. propostefair.it
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he architecture, construction and design expo held at Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, is this year expanding its offering by announcing the addition of DesignBUILD Interiors – an added show floor that will feature a collective of design-led products and manufacturers. DesignBUILD Interiors will include free seminars, workshops and keynotes, with intent to build business connections and encourage innovative interior designs. “We’re really excited to be a part of the first ever DesignBUILD Interiors as it offers our Houzz community of 15,000 architects, builders, interior designers and landscapers a platform to freely market their services and connect with potential clients and other industry professionals,” said Jason Chuck, Managing Director of Houzz Australia. Spread across the main show floor at DesignBUILD will be more than 200 exhibitors, representing the largest gathering of architecture, building, construction and design manufacturers and suppliers in Australia. A new landscape exhibition space is being developed in association with the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects to feature those exhibitors involved in landscape and streetscape design. In addition, the April show will host an industry services pavilion, a new and emerging show floor section, an industry insights speaker program and a technology display area, which will include a ‘virtual reality hub’ that will offer new experiences in intelligent building systems, building efficiency and smart home automation. designbuildexpo.com.au
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Industry News
AIFF HITS MELBOURNE
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fter 14 years in Sydney, the Australian International Furniture Fair is moving to Melbourne this July, where it will be colocated with DÉCOR + DESIGN. The events will be held at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre from 16–19 July 2015. Targeted at industry professionals including furniture and furnishings retailers, architects, interior decorators, designers and stylists, visitors can expect exclusive features including an international seminar series; with a focus on trend forecasting, VIVID; the prominent Australian design and innovation competition, open to emerging designers
and design students, and Scarlet Opus will also host ‘Trend Tours’; a new initiative for 2015 will allow visitors to see the show through a trend forecaster’s eyes. “AIFF has a great following in the design and retail industry for its true reflection of buying trends and innovations in the Australian and International furniture industries, and will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of this industry,” said Chris May, Exhibition Manager at Informa Australia, exhibition organisers. aiff.net.au
B&T FOR NEXUS INTERIORS
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exus Interiors has recently taken onboard an impressive new range of high-end, unique designer furniture by European furniture design brand B&T, which is set to be officially launched by Nexus later this year. The new product range is at the forefront of design and innovation, with products of mid-to-high range in cost and each specifically selected for contract commercial projects, with a select
Summer/Autumn 2015
range also stocked locally for the A&D community. Lead times are between 10–12 weeks, project based. Australian owned and operated, Nexus Interiors has been manufacturing and supplying high quality, in-demand office and task furniture to the A&D industry for over 50 years.
OPEN HOUSE WELCOMES EMMA TELFER
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pen House Melbourne has recently appointed Emma Telfer to the role of Creative Director. Telfer’s new appointment coincides with her fifth year with Open House Melbourne, a year that has seen her successfully drive visitor engagement as the organisation’s marketing communications consultant. Recently appointed Open House Melbourne CEO Paul Gurney said “I’m pleased to welcome Emma to her new role, a role that acknowledges her significant contribution to the organisation’s creative vision over the past five years. I look forward to working collaboratively with Emma to continue Open House’s growth as a significant cultural event for Melbourne.” Open House Melbourne aims to provide unique opportunities for people to understand the impact of good design and architecture in Melbourne. The Open House Melbourne weekend returns in 2015 from 25–26 July and will be supported by a special program that runs throughout the year.
nexusinteriors.com.au openhousemelbourne.org
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INDUSTRY NEWS
THE NEW FURNITEX CONNECT
F
ollowing the new management takeover of Furnitex, the newly launched event, Furnitex Connect is making waves with solid intent to initiate change to benefit the industry with quality exhibition features and exhibitors, educational initiatives and most recently unveiled, new quality standards to be met by all exhibitors. Essentially a brand new event, Furnitex Connect will be held from 9–12 July at the Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne. The Furnitex event was conceived in 1989, and is owned by the AFA. The new
event organiser is Expertise Events – the largest Australian-owned and operated exhibition organising company – holding over 30 world-class events across Australia and New Zealand each year. In the lead up to the July event, the ‘Adapt & Adopt or do Nothing Tour’ has held presentations across Australia aimed at informing industry leaders of the event’s new direction and how it will benefit businesses, as well as enabling them to meet the new Furnitex Connect team face-to-face. As a result of industry feedback at a recent Furnitex Connect presentation,
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EXTRA WIDE FRENCH OAK Summer/Autumn 2015
the event organisers have released a statement saying that they have drawn the line on what is acceptable and have set an exhibition standard for the show in Melbourne this July. The new ‘Quality Standards’ will need to be met by all exhibitors to maintain integrity and legitimacy of the event. For further information about the presentations or new quality standards, visit the website. furnitex.com.au
rench Oak Trading Company, sole Australian distributor of reclaimed 200+ year-old, certified authentic French oak, has commenced 2015 with fresh expansion, extending its unique product range and services. Adding to its range of quality, reclaimed French oak boards, beams and parquetry, salvaged from across Europe, French Oak Trading Company is now offering an extra wide range of French oak supply from the Lorraine region, where the timber is known for its wide grain patterns unique to the
area’s mild winters. Dimensions are 240mm+ wide x 27mm thick and up to 3.5 metres in length, expanding the design possibilities available with the material. For those that prefer the character, patina and provenance of reclaimed antique French Oak (rustic or smooth), French Oak Trading Company now has the capacity to cut the large beams to any thickness and length to order and in-house, for specific bespoke furniture design, joinery or building design projects. frenchoaktrading.com
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BOOK REVIEW
Material Innovation: Architecture BY ANDREW H. DENT AND LESLIE SHERR RRP $39.95 PUBLISHED BY THAMES & HUDSON, 2014 +61 3 9646 7788 WWW.THAMESHUDSON.COM.AU Review Kat Chaousis
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esign is the vocation of expression; a profession that is sustained by fresh inspiration and an ever-evolving material supply. Resources like Material Innovation: Architecture by Andrew H. Dent and Leslie Sherr expands the creative threshold to encourage the designer to produce with ongoing innovation and access to material inspiration. The authors are well placed to contribute to the space of modern material innovation. Dent is the Vice President of Material ConneXion library and material research, a facility that hosts over 7000 materials across eight categories, including the largest selection of sustainable materials and the only cradle-to-cradle materials collection in the world. Sherr is a well-established author of architecture and design, and together with a combination of technical and analytical expertise in material innovation and architectural design, they have produced a rich resource for designers. Material Innovation: Architecture navigates a variety of global projects formed using materials such as glass and ceramic, highperformance composites, digitally fabricated metals and polymer films. Whether you are a well-seasoned designer seeking guidance on matters of design and innovation or a design student seeking to explore the possibilities and promises that lay ahead in the material realm, this publication is versatile across the board. It includes 224 glossy pages layered with an engaging blend of photography (415 colour illustrations in total), and is framed by technical guidance through an insightful examination of each featured project and the materials used for each. Material Innovation: Architecture features a materials directory, with reference to the Material ConneXion library inventory and a contributor’s contacts page to enable readers to walk away from this publication feeling
Summer/Autumn 2015
both challenged and equipped to create with the same level of innovation and design forte. George M. Beylerian, Founder of Material ConneXion, in his Preface writes, “When we think about the future of materials, it is obvious to me that those who have recently contributed in so many remarkable ways to our physical landscape should be celebrated for their contributions to the here, now and tomorrow.” This publication is a presentation of highend design concepts and a celebration of the material solutions behind each. From the ‘altered naturals’ used for the Hermès Pavilion from Milan Fashion Week, to the polymer films used in the Coca Cola BeatBox Pavilion in London, you will find each featured project as interesting and it is visually appealing.
In her introduction, Gail Peter Borden, Head of Architecture at University of Southern California, makes reference to what he believes is a new generation of architects, they are, he says, “Grounded in an intense desire to make real things. Varied in technique and scale, method and intent, yet having a collective connection to the physical translation of idea into matter, they are a generation fascinated with thinking through making.” Material Innovation: Architecture explores just that – the ideal of ‘thinking through making’, offering an expanded view of material innovation, technology and technique for the creation of projects that become more than just functional spaces; they become a progressive form of art.
ADVERTISER INDEX
064
Art Hide Antika Cascara soft goat hair hide is etched by hand by Indonesian artisans and sourced as a by-product. A stunning addition to any interior, it can be placed on the floor or draped over furniture. The Antika Cascara features a traditional Batik design and each hide is unique. arthide.com.au
Advertiser Index IFC-01
Charles Parsons Interiors charlesparsonsinteriors.com.au
22
Antique Mirror Glass antiquemirrorglass.com.au
57
Thailand International Furniture Fair 2015 thailandfurniturefair.com
03
Sealy sealy.com.au
29
Sir Paz Estate sirpaz.com
59
Jinhan Fair jinhanfair.com
05
Proposte propostefair.it
37
Lifestyle lifestyle-au.com
61
IAFP iafpalliance.com
07
Bekaert Textiles bekaerttextiles.com
38
Ellikon ellikon.com.au
63
Anji Zoy Furniture Co. Ltd zoy-living.com
08
Mayfield Lamps mayfieldlamps.com.au
45
China International Furniture Fair ciff.fairwindow.com
13
DesignBUILD designbuildexpo.com.au
49
Malaysian International Furniture Fair 2015.miff.com.my
17
Enjoy Lighting enjoylighting.com.au
53
International Dragon Furniture Fair qianjin.com
Summer/Autumn 2015
IBC OBC
Furnitex Connect furnitex.com.au Furnishing in Focus furnishinginfocus.com
July 9 – 12, 2015 Now at Royal Exhibition Building Carlton Gardens, Melbourne
Where do you connect with the latest innovation and design trends in 2015? Furnitex Connect... It’s not just an exhibition, it’s an experience. Join us at the new reenergised and revamped Furnitex at the Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton Gardens, Thursday to Sunday, July 9 – 12, 2015. It will be an exhibition by the industry, for the industry See the latest technology on display, discover new and exciting products, seek out all the latest trends as well as network and connect with your peers. You can sign up for a conference session with world-class speakers or even join a master class. Furnitex is also proud to showcase Australia’s emerging designers as part of our ongoing ‘looking to the future’ campaign. So if you need some inspiration, Furnitex Connect is the place to be. For more information please visit www.furnitex.com.au
Expertise Events: connect@expertiseevents.com.au 02 9452 7575
Furnishing in Focus
Proudly Australian, Locally made AUSTRALIA’S LEADING MANUFACTURERS PROUDLY PRESENT THE LARGEST SELECTION OF LOCALLY PRODUCED FURNISHING DESIGNS TO BE SHOWN IN 2015. FREE OF IMPORTS. 2 & 3 June 2015 For more information visit www.furnishinginfocus.com Furnishing
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