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Modern Italian Furniture Design: Quality, Functionality and Originality
By Joanna Ostrowski
The beginning of the year is an obvious time for predicting new trends and directions. Furniture design is no exception but no new direction, however exciting and original, comes out of a void. Everything is influenced. A spectacular salon de mobile 2009, collective experience of ”annus
horribillis 2009”, instant exposure to news via twitter and face book, are all major factors shaping new trends in 2010.
We have been seeing the growing importance of original, well made and — often quite expensive furniture. Clients are willing to invest in what they believe will satisfy their needs in long term.
High-end furniture manufacturer Minotti is a perfect illustration of this trend, especially the new collection by Rodolfo Dordoni. It consists of 24 unique yet integrated products that are refined, yet practical and elegant. The new Williams seating system combined with consoles and coffee tables of the same name will undoubtly grow into another Italian classic. Each element of this collection exemplifies great design and attention to detail true of Italian craftsmanship.
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High end materials, exceptional quality and unique ideas are typical of the new breed of luxury products perceived by clients to be a timeless investment rather than disposable goods. In a world of endless copies and cheap ”knock offs”, the pride of owing an original Minotti becomes very gratifying.
An increased emphasis on creating the “perfect” home means that previously neglected or under-utilized areas are also getting a complete make over. The new ”must have” are beautiful closet systems, like the ones from Italian manufacturer Lema. With its endless possibilities of custom made elements, state-of-the-art finishes and technical “know how”, every woman’s (and some men’s!) fantasy of a dream closet becomes flawless reality.
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No respectable home of 2010 will be without fabulous outdoor furniture. Again the emphasis is on lasting quality, functionality and original design. Like the wire hangers of the closets past, cheap
plastic outdoor furniture is no longer acceptable in fine homes (and about time, too). We also see the disappearance of the traditional division between indoor and outdoor. This is made possible thanks to products from manufacturers like Roda Italia. The collaboration with Rodolfo Dordoni resulted in developing complete systems such as net work and basket. Both are flexible collections suitable for creating outdoor rooms. This is a very important concept for 2010, synonymous with relaxation, informality and the modern way of living.
To sum it up, more than ever, what we expect from furniture in 2010 has to do with good, original design, quality, and expression of individual needs.
Joanna Ostrowski has worked for Livingspace in Vancouver for 15 years, involved in both sales and design projects for clients. Visit www.livingspace.com.
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