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Design News Maison et Objet

16th February 2018

Maison et Objet, literally translated into English means “House and Object”. In design terms, it refers to an international trade fair that takes place twice a year, first in January and then in September. The January edition (Friday 19th – Tuesday 23rd) is slightly bigger and offers a vast emporium of designers from all over the world. The global interiors industry has grown by two per cent this year and the momentum is reflected in the scale of #MO18, welcoming 140,382 visitors to see 2,729 exhibitors across 63 countries (including 620 new brands!).

Similar to London Design Festival in the UK and Salone del Mobile in Milan, Maison et Objet is a colourful showcase of exciting designers and brands, new and old. However, while London and Milan are hosted in different districts throughout their respective cities, the French equivalent offers the same variety in one place. For each design district, Maison conveniently offers a large hall – each with its own distinction. For attendees, this means more time perusing and less time on public transport. In total there are no less than eight halls (nine if you consider that hall five has an A and a B!) and each has a different design discipline. These include: Eclectic, Cosy, Elegant, Fragrances, Complements, Actual, Cook & Share, Home & Fashion, Smart Gift, Design to Live and Interior Scenes Paris.

For ease, we have edited it down to a handful of themes and standout designers, so you can get a feel for the 2018 design barometer.

Let’s begin with colour. We know that rich, earthy tones are expected to be a big trend in 2018 and there was validation at the fair. Beautifully deep golden yellows were everywhere, from accent chairs to statement walls and accessories. More often than not, it was paired with a dark velvety green, cobalt blue and, for contrast, dusty pink. We saw a lot of the bright ‘millennial pink’ in 2017, but it appears to have matured into a more frosted shade.

BOHO LIGHTING

There was also evidence of boho lighting, which is another trend that has been earmarked for 2018. Good & Mojo is a Dutch designer offering lights made with only sustainable materials, such as cork, recycled paper pulp, wood chips, eco-linen and bamboo. In addition, for every lamp sold, the brand donates five per cent to the WakaWaka Foundation.

maison-et-object_goodmojo

MIXED MATERIALS

Mixed materials were a feature of the fair, often combining rich natural and industrialised materials for a contemporary look. A brilliant example comes from Michael Verhedyden, former fashion model and designer. The collection celebrates minimalistic lines and materials such a leather, bronze, brass and marble. You can find his products on the WallpaperSTORE*.

VELVET

There was a notable trend for plush, tactile velvets; particularly seen on sofas and armchairs. The effect was one of luxurious homeliness and worked beautifully with the rich, earthy tones. Below is a beautiful example from Anna Roque Interiors, a Portuguese brand created in 1996 by Ana Roque. Luckily you can find similar statement pieces closer to home at outlets like Made.com.

maison-et-object_ana-roque

MAXIMALISM

It wouldn’t be Maison et Objet without a welcomed dose of maximalism and our needs were met with Jonathan Adler, known for bringing a touch of American glamour. The stand showed little reserve and we particularly loved the kitchen storage sets, available in different bright colours.

maison-et-object_jonathan-adler

ACCESSORIES

We loved this table top tray from Ligne Roset. There is a nice balance of elegance and individuality that makes it a sophisticated, contemporary addition to the dining table.

maison-et-object_ligne-roset

And the sleek and simple shapes from Living Talk. Starting in a rural town in Gifu, Japan, the brand is famed for minimalist elegance. The understated colours and subtle textures are beautiful.

Looking for design inspiration? Request a copy of our 80-page brochure here or browse our blog and Instagram page for recent case studies. Alternatively, visit your local Harvey Jones showroom to discuss your kitchen design with our expert designers.