Design Team: Decorex & 100% Design 2016

Wood was combined with black metal to create a modern, contemporary take on traditional furniture design, creating high-end pieces with Scandinavian influence. 

Pattern 

Inky patterns inspired by marbling techniques, minerals and floral were spotted everywhere, while artistic marks were created through splats, etching and scoring.

Mark-making and textural patterns were seen alongside stronger and more flamboyant interior elements, such as peacock feathers.

The theme for this year’s 100% Design was to create a connection to our surroundings, whilst looking back at designs of the past to help inform the future. 

The main inspiration was taken from space, nature, precious stones and minerals. 

Colour

Soft hues combined with stark, white marbles, alongside deep greens were seen coming through in matt finishes as well as lacquered effects to create a luxurious ambience. Also seen mixed with gold highlights, pops of rich yellow and a dash of sparkle.

Geometric patterning continued to be the decoration of choice, from bold standout pieces to simple clean lines. 

In contrast, watery abstract design and inky styles added an artistic, free-spirited alternative to the more rigid geometry.

Mid-century influences inspired many, with the mixing of materials key.  Matt and gloss finishes combined with highlights of bold colour created the feeling of timeless elegance.

Minerals and earthy influences were still popular, from precious stones to the use of plants as styling props, and earthy blended colour palettes. 

Materials

An array of materials was spotted at Decorex – from Jesmonite, iron, bronze, metal, ceramic and wood, to raw wood, glass, blown glass, velvet and Carrara marbles.

Blue remained the colour of choice, with an array of shades used in experimental combinations. 

Metallic highlights were prominent and added a luxurious finish, while iridescent styles were spread across glass, metal and mirror, with oil slick-inspired markings. 

Earthy and natural tones continued to be combined with subtle pastels, and brown undertones – inspired by the natural environments that surround us. Earthy rose pinks and soft leaf greens were combined with shades of kale, cloudy white, sky blue and grey.

Decorex 

With Decorex focusing on the “roots of design”, exhibitors explored the theme through the rejuvenation of traditional methods to suit a contemporary market, whilst emphasising the importance of longevity over short-lived trend pieces.