What's Trending Today: Overview of Early 2017 Exhibitions

The trend from the previous year continued into this one: on exhibition stands of all companies and at the Paris Deco off program, as well as at the Maison & Objet salon and the Brafa Art fair in Brussels, green was evident – whether in sofa upholstery or as a live plant in a pot. Ekaterina Krylova highlights other trends that the furniture and antique markets will follow in the near future.

Ekaterina Krylova
Expert
Interior designer, art lover and connoisseur, particularly of contemporary art. Therefore, she visits both interior design salons and art fairs with equal interest.

1. Jungle Theme

At the Paris Deco off program, which unfolds beyond the Maison & Objet exhibition, jungle themes were especially prominent in the showrooms of its participants. Each brand presented collections with various interpretations of jungle foliage – traditional or reimagined in modern styles. For example, Pierre Frey used a jungle photograph taken from a helicopter and processed it in the Warhol style for their pattern.

Tropical Jungles – not just a dream of travelers, but a fashion trend
Of course, real palm leaves don’t look exactly like this...
The jungle theme also appeared in cabinet furniture
Jungles also celebrated at Brafa Art
Even rare illustrations from old Belgian comics are dedicated to Tin Tin’s jungle adventures

2. Green Metal

Green made its presence not only in fabrics but also in metal. The synthesis of handcrafted work, forging, and innovative technologies allows for the use of metal in unconventional interior, architectural, and industrial projects. A good example is the decorative metal coatings, furniture, and accessories showcased by De Castelli at Maison & Objet.

Decorative coatings from De Castelli
Decorative coatings from De Castelli
Jan Fabre used emerald shimmering beetle wings to create shocking objects
Fans of Jan Fabre will appreciate his new work

3. Velvet and Faux Fur

It’s interesting to observe another development of last season’s trend – velvet and faux fur. Some brands have used these materials not only for soft furniture but also for cabinet furniture. Accessories to decorate interiors have also become faux fur.

Velvet lounge chair from Essential Home
Velvet console from Essential Home
This luxurious velvet with a denim print was presented at Deco off by Jean-Paul Gaultier
Blue faux fur flowers – an alternative to living and green

4. Sparkles, Sequins, Crystals

It’s impossible to ignore another trend of this year – various sparkles, sequins, beads, lurex, and crystals. The Deco off program featured an impressive collection by Jean-Paul Gaultier of exquisite craftsmanship. Wallpapers with shimmering stars and cushions in huge embroidered blue eyes with crystal details.

Goddesses at Gaultier modestly wear striped t-shirts and panties
Wallpapers from Jean-Paul Gaultier’s collection
One of Joana Vasconcelos’ knitted art objects

5. Furniture as Art Object

At both exhibitions, one could encounter furniture items categorized as art objects. A sculptural lounge chair, released in a limited edition of 12 pieces and presented at Galerie Deletile, is worth noting for its comfort.

Also green theme – the chair looks like a carved log