Over three days ( June 14-16), 160 exhibitors showcased their latest collections in furniture, lighting and textiles at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Over three days ( June 14-16), 160 exhibitors showcased their latest collections in furniture, lighting and textiles at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
A record number of 8,000 professionals and design lovers attended the 2018 edition of Denfair Melbourne.
By creating a platform for tastemakers, risk-takers and rule breakers who design products to create moments and tell stories, Australia’s leading destination for contemporary design has connected local and global brands. Its manifesto is straightforward: “Design exists in every part of our lives. It can inspire greatness, change thinking and improve our lives.” Home & Decor visited the fair to scout out the top five trends likely to land on our shores
TREND 1
Exquisite lighting can change the atmosphere of a space. These three pieces spotted at Denfair Melbourne are perfect for creating visual tension in a subtle way. Hung from the ceiling, mounted on a wall or placed on the floor, these lamps can affect the mood of a room from various perspectives.
3. Exploring modern lighting techniques and materials processes, each ceramic Tile by Lumil measures 250mm long and slides over an LED strip housed within an aluminium extrusion. https://lumil.co
TREND 2
Sustainability
What’s growing globally is a movement that focuses on living in harmony with natural surroundings, and conserving resources. Combining sustainability and style, through the use of eco-friendly materials and design techniques, is a new way to improve our lives at home. These products reflect that idea.
1. Organic and porous on one side, and flat and smooth on the other, the Me Lava Mirror from the brand Buzao – distributed by Remodern – celebrates the natural, irregular life of the stone. The piece is made from lava stone and has a polished steel mirror. http://remodern.com.au
TREND 3
Stylish study
Our workspace is changing. Some may say we need flexibility and interaction to be more efficient and creative at work. Choosing the right pieces of furniture (chair, desk) and accessories is key to achieving this objective, while providing comfort.
3. Designed by Taku Kumazawa for Axona Aichi and presented by Ke-zu at Denfair, the sleek X50 chair has a flexible seat and back that moulds to the user and allows for extremely compact stacking. It is produced with recycled and recyclable materials. www.axonaaichi.com
TREND 4
Indoor-outdoor hybrids
Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, these products can withstand weather conditions thanks to durable materials. They are ideal for refreshing any space, as they reflect a sense of serenity through an aesthetic that blends simplicity, function and beauty.
TREND 5
Woven furniture
Mixing traditional weaving techniques, natural materials and contemporary aesthetic is one of the secrets to achieving an elegant yet warm look. By bringing textures to every room, these three design essentials will make your home cosy.
STOPOVER SIGHTS
1. Adelphi Hotel
2. Ishizuka
3. National Gallery of Victoria
Founded in 1861, the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is the oldest and most visited museum in Australia. It occupies two buildings (NGV international and NGV Australia) and has a collection of over 70,000 artworks that span thousands of years and a wide range of disciplines including painting, sculpture, fashion, design and architecture. www.ngv.vic.gov.au
text KARINE MONIE photos RESPECTIVE BRANDS, DENFAIR MELBOURNE
