MAISON is a hub for interior designers, hoteliers and specifiers on the look-out for inspiration, furniture and bespoke products for their projects. The sector is divided into four divisions: CRAFT for unique artisan pieces of arts, UNIQUE&ECLECTIC for a blend of unique products from all around the world, TODAY for contemporary design and FOREVER for timeless designs. Each of these divisions encompasses a ‘Signature’ area showcasing a high-end and luxurious product selection.
OBJET, on the other hand, is specifically designed for retailers looking for decorative objects that will ravish worldwide buyers, through six product categories: Smart Gift, Fashion Accessories, Kids & Family, Cook & Share, Home accessories and Home Fragrance.
Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, MAISON&OBJET will delve into what design could look like in 25 years. For 2020, both the January and September edition will explore the needs and expectations of Generation Y and Z and how their eagerness for setting new rules, new ways to consume and create with eco-friendliness in mind will shape the future of design.
The January event, taking place from 17th to 21st January, will focus more specifically on the expectation of the ‘engaged generation’ and their thrive for more equality, sustainability and wellbeing, motivated by climate change and public figures such as Greta Thunberg.
To illustrate these behavioural changes and trends, Designer Ramy Fisher will create an XL installation while Elizabeth Leriche, François Bernard and François Delclaux will once again offer their visions of future trends in the What’s New exhibition areas.
The conference programme will also address this key theme, with the presence of leading design companies. Amongst them, Heidi Pettersvold Nygaard from Snøhetta will explore the story behind the conception of the largest underwater restaurant in the world settled in Norway; Maria Speake, Founder of Retrouvius and expert in second-hand furniture, will give her tips on how pre-loved furniture is, in fact, making trendy interiors; and young designers living with the ideal of creating a better world will inform visitors on how (re)using materials and pushing the boundaries of design can help create more sustainable products.