Paris Design Week: Maison&Objet 2016

Glass was spotted en masse, with iridescent styles and effects being key, and traditional techniques such as glassblowing favoured amongst many.

Blue appeared to be the colour of choice (which only reinforces Dulux’s Colour of the Year 2017 – Denim Drift), from subtle off-white blues, to deep blue/black hues. 

The industrial trend remained prominent, with architectural elements being at the forefront. Key materials included copper pipes, metal meshes and concrete backdrops. Tom Dixon showcased a combination of industrial styles, such as lustrous effects to create the look of petrol in water, and iridescent lighting solutions.

The Scandinavian influence was also seen combined with elements of traditional African design, through a mix of natural woods with carved geometric patterning, washed denim and bold highlights of colour.

Other designers and brands focused on environmental impact, which in turn created its own colour palette spotted throughout the show. Nature and sustainability were the main driving forces behind the collection of earthy greens, soft blushes, brown undertones, warm greys and deeper neutrals. Flowers provided a key influence on the functionally and form of furniture and lighting, with lightshades opening and closing in the way that petals react to the changing seasons. 

Key elements of this particular trend existed in creating the appearance of luxury. A deep colour palette of reds, combined with sensual and precious materials, harked back to a bygone era, whilst challenging convention. A sense of opulence was created through lacquered finishes, gold highlights and rich Carrara marbles.

Although borrowing inspiration from the past, the focus was truly on reinvention for a contemporary setting. Designers used nostalgic yet iconic shapes and pattern, from items that bring us together socially, to encourage human interaction.

The House of Games installation at Maison&Objet was separated into three areas showcasing ‘life poetic uncertainty’, ‘clashing styles until a balance is reached’, and references to ‘heritage and reinvention’.

Other key trends included cultural influences, such as Scandinavian styling, with its clean lines, fresh and simple approach, and functionality and form, alongside matt, black framing, and subtle muted tones.

This year’s theme, House of Games, created a playful feel to the event, with exhibitors answering the brief in a spectrum of dramatic and maximalist ways: understated, this show was not.

Inspiration took shape in various gaming aesthetics – from playing cards, draughts boards and pawns, to dice and dominos – being beautifully bizarre was the only way to win.