I have a system for walking markets and trade fairs that keeps me from loosing my place and forgetting where I have already been and what I have left to do. I developed this system years ago and have stuck with it because it works. I needed it because of the number of events I attend each year—some of them in the same venue where I also attend other shows—and the number of times I repeat the same event over the years. This system is highly linear and chimpanzee simple.
One element of my system dictates that I only look at trend exhibits after I have finished walking the entire show. That means I make my own observations and form my own opinions and forecasts independently. Then I head to the trend exhibit to see what the trend talent hired by the fair organizers thinks. Sometimes we agree, sometimes we don’t. Either way, I appreciate every trend exhibit’s core objective: to stir the pot of creativity and get people thinking about the future.
Amsterdam-based Gunnar Frank has been the trend talent behind Messe Frankfurt’s Heimtextil trend exhibit for several years, and always seems to come up with interesting concepts, as he did again this year. The explanations below are excerpted from Heimtextil’s 2007 trend brochure.
Constructive Power
This trend celebrates the energy of the seven primary colors, coupled with the starkness of constructivism. The result is spaces that demonstrate modernity and clear lines. The intensity and power of the selected color combinations is extraordinarily emotive—and the language expresses absolute clarity and passion. This bridge between decorative element and elegant tradition creates a scenario infused with artistic style.
Cubism Monochrome
Cubism Monochrome combines the family of seven neutrals colors with the character of Cubism. The transition from actual to abstract in this art for is ideally complemented by “non-colors,” which serve as projection surfaces, providing a focus of calmness and a basis for reorientation. Stirring motifs and quotes from previous centuries create a new tension. In the shapes and color moods there are changes of perspective that form part of the dynamic lifestyle and interior design.
Surreal Sunny
Surreal Sunny features brilliant shades of yellow and red that are warmed by Surrealism. The brightness of the sun is combined with emotions to fashion a world of warmth. A mood is created here that pleasantly illuminates the space and leaves little room for secrets—although the mysterious quotes from Surrealism contrast with the classical motifs to generate additional creative energy. This interior world is a rousing, fascinating and imaginative interplay of modern and romantic aspects.
Futurism Dawn
In Futurism Dawn , the cool spectrum of the blue-green tones is enhanced with the courage and boldness of Futurism. Here the aura of the moon meets rationality. The fascinating contrast of fairytale accessories creates an overall impression of mystery and mystic charm. The mood is one of distant playfulness that is forward, looking and signals the progressive character of this interior design style. As in Surreal Sunny, modernism and romanticism find equal expression.