The annual IMM Cologne international interiors show in Germany kicked off for the year on 19 January. For seven days in January, Germany’s fourth-largest city is the backdrop for the presentation of the latest products from the world’s most renowned manufacturers. The eleven Koelnmesse halls are a picturesque tram journey across the Rhine river from the city’s famed gothic Cologne Cathedral. Architecture Media editorial director Cameron Bruhn has walked the halls of the exhibition in search of the latest and greatest. He observes that “sensuality and ingenuity were the hallmarks of the most exciting new furniture debuted at the event.” Here’s a selection from day one of his visit – it’s a taste of things to come in 2015.
Archi armchair from Ligne Roset
Archi armchair from Ligne Roset.
Designed by Pierre Paulin, Archi combines a satin black lacquered or brilliant-chromed tubular steel base with a sculpted foam-clad metal-structured body. In 2015, the same base is also offered in a matt black or cherry-stained solid ash version. Paulin, a great lover of inverted symmetry, expresses this between the seat and base. The overall effect is one of lively, aerodynamic modernity – seen in the upholstered metal structure, the elastic suspensions, or the particular way in which the seat sits on the base.
Domo is the Australian supplier of Ligne Roset.
Blixen Lounge Chair from Fendi Casa
Blixen Lounge Chair from Fendi Casa.
Formal rigour and aesthetic functionality go hand-in-hand in the contemporary Blixen chair. Comfortable and enveloping, the seat is made of a leather monocoque piece, pulled taut with metal buckles that reference the accessories from a man’s wardrobe. The Blixen is available as a chair, conference chair and the new, larger sized lounge chair.
Available direct from Fendi Casa.
Barca Lounge Chair from Branca-Lisboa
Barca Lounge Chair from Branca-Lisboa.
Designed by Marco Sousa Santos, Barca is a lounge chair designed as a contemplation seat. “Barca” refers to a small wooden boat – handmade, useful, smooth in proportions and part of an idyllic scenario. At first glance Barca looks like the work of an old carpenter, however, it is the latest original piece from Branca-Lisboa. The build of Barca and its constructive details were developed through a close partnership between skilled carpenter Carlos Campos and the designer. Made out of ash or Iroko wood, Barca reflects a unique knowledge of Portuguese wood joinery.
Domo is the Australian supplier of Branca-Lisboa.
Bandas Space from GAN
Bandas Space from GAN.
GAN is launching a new concept: GAN spaces. Multipurpose modules, pillows, accessories, ottomans and containers can be arranged to the user’s individual needs. Using a single set, you can change the use and appearance of your space as many times as you like. The Bandas Space, designed by Patricia Urquiola, takes modularity to the limit, with all the pieces in the Bandas collection able to be interchanged.
Hub Furniture is the Australian supplier of GAN.
Flow sofa and ACT sideboard from Team by Wellis
Flow sofa and ACT sideboard from Team by Wellis.
The new collection designed by This Weber for Team by Wellis can be described as being harmonious and subtle. When creating this range of designs, Weber focused on well-balanced proportions that are aligned to people rather than to space. This may well be the reason why the Flow sofa recalls the Golden Age of Scandinavian design in the fifties. The feet are splayed slightly, which ensures a light and playful appearance. The height of the seat is practical and it is easy for the individual to stand up. The strength of the material of the elegantly shaped ACT sideboard represents a key element: its slender sides emphasize perfect.
Domo is the Australian supplier of Team by Wellis.
Key table from Hem
Key table from Hem.
An eye-catching occasional table, the Key’s lacquered, solid-ash top rests on powdercoated steel legs. Designed by Italian-Danish duo GamFratesi, it can be built without tools in around thirty seconds. As the name suggests, assembling Key is just a case of locking in the legs and you’re done. The solid-wood tabletop provides a sense of great depth and quality.
Available direct from Hem.
DS-110 easy chair from de Sede
DS-110 easy chair from de Sede.
The DS-110 easy chair is fresh and progressive, encouraging the user to sink back and plunge into blissful comfort. Working in close co-operation with de Sede, Swiss designer Alfredo Häberli has used the DS-110 to reinterpret the shapes of automotive construction, with extended armrests echoing the sweeping wings of a Bugatti, and with the perfect ergonomics and starting-grid pose that reflect the beauty of a classic sports car. The reduced shape of the occasional table – the central console – provides space for a newspaper or a glass.
Domo is the Australian supplier of de Sede.
Solatium seating system from B&B Italia
Solatium seating system from B&B Italia.
Solatium from the Apta Collection is the new classic seating system that includes 140 different elements. It features severe shapes softened by precious, elegant details. Several different configurations are possible, playing on the double depth of the elements: linear sofas with chaise-longue terminal elements, dynamic corner sofas with armrests and backs of different heights, and lastly, the ottomans. The seat cover and cushions are available in a wide range of leathers or fabrics.
Space Furniture is an Australian supplier of B&B Italia.
