I can’t believe I’m only just now writing this blog post about the furniture expo in Milan that took place back in June. I mean, I’ve had the idea for it in my head for months. But there was always something else that needed to be done first, like catching up with old friends, eating gelato and pizza, or driving my little Fiat 500 around the winding streets of Trieste…
Furniture fairs are a great opportunity to see all the latest and greatest designs that are soon to be hitting the market. This year the Salone del Mobile (the Milan Furniture Fair) took place the second week of June and it was definitely an event to remember. There was so much inspiration to be had, but if you’re not familiar with the Salone, it can be a little overwhelming. So, in this article, I’m going to give you a quick rundown of what the Salone was all about.
Table tops made of unique materials
Exhibitors showcased many tables with very unique tops, which make them stand out and become the focal point of the room. I’ve seen table tops made of ceramic, glass, cork, wood, stone, and very unusual materials, such as jute and hemp (see below the side table by Desalto).
The use of unique materials is a trend that has been growing in recent years, as furniture makers seek to create pieces that are not only functional but also visually stunning.
Desalto
Ethimo
Gallotti e Radice
Ethimo
Gamma
Tonin Casa
Porada
Riva 1920
Natural stone
At this year’s furniture fair, natural stone was everywhere. It was mainly used for table tops, but also for walls, and even the back panel of desks. It came in a variety of colors, from pale blue to deep green. The use of natural stone is a trend that has been growing in popularity for the past few years. And it’s easy to see why. Stone is durable and easy to care for. It’s also a great way to add color and texture to a room.
Natural stone for vertical surfaces
Emmemobili
Emmemobili
Bonaldo
Emmemobili
Natural stone for horizontal surfaces
Natural stone was mainly used for table tops. What I like the most about stone table tops, besides the fact that they can really make your dining room stand out, of course, is that there’s no need for a tablecloth. Tablecloths are for covering up ugly tables (like mine), not gorgeous ones. Besides, surfaces as beautiful as these are meant to be enjoyed, not hidden away. Another added benefit is less laundry to wash (my practical side always emerges) and more conversation sparks. Tables like these can really become the talk of the dinner party.
Archetipo
DiTre
Reflex
Archetipo
Casa Milano
One brand in particular stood out, in my opinion, and that is Tafaruci. The reason why I liked them so much is that they purposely had the color of the chairs match one of the most prominent colors of the stone. I think it was a very unique and elegant idea, and it really showed off the skill of the Italian designers. In the examples below you can see the color match with pumpkin orange, chocolate brown and light gray chairs.
Light fixtures that make a statement
Many of the exhibitors used oversized chandeliers above their tables, and the effect was truly impressive. The scale of these pieces added a sense of drama to the room, and they would definitely be a conversation starter in any home. However, I’ve also seen the complete opposite, that is linear and sleek light fixtures. This is a refreshing change, and it’s sure to inspire new trends in home decor. These are the ones that I liked the most.
Riva 1920
Lema
Frigerio
Emmemobili
Cattelan
Cattelan
Cattelan
Cattelan
Cattelan
Calligaris
Bouclé fabric
Furniture made with bouclé fabric is another trend that I’ve seen at the fair. This is in keeping with the tendency of Italian design to move away from the stark, minimalist look and towards a more inviting, cozy aesthetic. First seen on sofas, it now grabs hold of chairs and poufs. This fabric is woven with looped yarn and it is made with a variety of fibers that create a stylish matte surface. Whether it’s a sofa, chair, or even just a throw pillow, furniture upholstered in this type of fabric can help create a warm and inviting space.
Saba
Riva 1920
Knoll
Giellesse
Gervasoni
Desalto
Soft and asymmetric curves
At the Salone del mobile, many exhibitors showcased furniture with soft but also asymmetric curves. As furniture and decor become more sculptural, we are seeing a shift away from the more traditional, symmetrical forms. This trend, which favor a more organic and fluid look, is evident not only in Italy, but also in other design hubs around the world. Sofa design, in particular, is embracing this new aesthetic, with many brands offering furniture that is both stylish and comfortable.
Saba
Gallotti e Radice
Exteta
Casa Milano
Bonaldo
Adrenalina
Oversized coffe tables and ottomans that double as seating
The beauty of these pieces is that they are both practical and modern, and they can be used in a variety of ways. Whether you’re looking for extra seating for a large gathering or simply want to add a touch of luxury to your home decor, an oversized ottoman is a perfect solution.
Living Divani
Gervasoni
Exteta
Casa Milano
Caccaro
Archetipo
Double lounge chairs
This year’s event was especially notable for its focus on furniture that promotes relaxation and togetherness. Extra large and cozy lounge chairs were a common sight, often displayed in pairs, to be used instead of the traditional sofa. This trend is in line with the current focus on slowing down and enjoying life’s simple pleasures and is sure to continue to be popular in both residential and commercial settings. The furniture itself was often quite sculptural, with organic shapes and luxurious materials that make it difficult to resist sinking in for a long chat.
Minotti
Flou Natevo
Flexform
Flexform
Exteta
Color green
The predominance of furniture and decor in green tones was impossible to miss. While in 2019 the exhibit was marked by a more coral palette, this year green (but I’d say also ochre) was a popular choice among designers, with many opting for a soft, earthy shade that evokes the natural world. Given the current political climate, it’s not surprising that so many designers are turning to nature for inspiration. In a time of turmoil and uncertainty, the appeal of tranquil, organic forms is strong. And if this year’s show is any indication, Italian design is poised to lead the way in bringing a taste of the outdoors indoors.
Gamma
Porada
Knoll
Minotti
Tafaruci
Tonin Casa
I’ve seen a lot of design trends at the Milan expo, and there are some that are similar to what we have in the States, but many are unique to Italian and European markets. It’s hard to know which design trends will catch on and stick around, but I have a feeling that some of the ones we saw at Milan will be popular for a while. Which one do you think will last the most? Which one is your favorite?
Let me know in the comments below – I would love to hear from you!