On a whim, a spur of the moment opportunity arose to attend this year’s Fair in Stockholm, Sweden. After a fifteen-hour flight, I arrived in 20-degree weather with ice covering the ocean and much of the landscape. My goal was to find new products, new materials, new knowledge, new trends, new environments and new technical solutions showcased by the 239 exhibitors. Over 40,000 people joined me at the fair. Visitors were from more than 60 different countries with more than 1,000 journalists on site including 300 international journalists. Eighty percent of the products were produced in Scandinavia. Here is a breakdown of what I saw!
INNOVATION
I loved this expandable dining table. You just simply crank the wheel and you can add four more people to your dinner party! Multi-functional furniture and furniture with unique material combinations were a huge trend! Check out this one-of-a-kind cocktail table with a magazine holder attached…walnut wheels, leather and marble with gold accents this piece and it is definitely an eye catcher! Elevate your display, what do you think of this marble table with risers? I love this side table with an acrylic base and marble top.
ACOUSTICS
Acoustics continue to be a growing trend in the design world! The applications go beyond the expected wall and ceiling! It is now incorporated into lighting, privacy workstations, 3D decorative wall panels and more! Check out our previous blog on Acoustical Design.
WOOD CRAFTSMANSHIP
How many ways can you build a chair? The fine attention to detail, craftsmanship and materials truly sets these apart. It is impossible to pick a favorite!
WHIMSICAL
I dare you to sit on one of these stools or tiptoe through the “red pansies” (tulips)!
PRAYING MANTIS CONCEPT
These chairs may look odd but I promise you that they won’t disappoint. They are so comfortable and support the body where it needs it most!
OCCASIONAL SEATING
These pieces were only fun to look at but to not sit in. Varied heights of seating encouraged guests to rest without encroaching on the person next them…luckily we got there early and stayed all day. Don’t you love a good whim?
