Salone de Mobile may have come and gone, but the products showcased have real staying power, underscoring the importance of international design. Texture, color, material, and sheer creativity were on display. From emerging brands to established designers, unexpected partnerships and bold introductions, the designs delighted. Sophisticated home decor at its finest. The fair represents some of the best furniture, lighting, tabletop, kitchen and bath, and decorative accessories produced around the globe.
Below are some of our favorite international brands. Some exhibited their wares at the fair, others opened new storefronts in Milan, and others participated in installations that highlighted their inventiveness and dedication to style.
Agape — Since the '70’s, this Italian brand has been carefully crafting bathroom staples. Dedicated to environmentally-friendly production processes and distinguished design collaborations, they continually release beautiful bathroom decor. This year, they partnered with French architect Jean Nouvel on a collection of architectural washbasins and bathtubs made of marble. One of our favorite collections is Cenote designed by Patricia Urquiola. These pared down washbasins exude pure elegance!
B&B Italia — A leader of high-quality modern furniture, their timeless designs turn everyday rooms into eye-catching interiors. One of their most iconic designs, the Le Bambole armchair, celebrated its 50th anniversary this year. Originally designed by architect Mario Bellini, the famed chair has been reimagined by Stella McCartney who upholstered the chair with a whimsical mushroom print made from eco-conscious fabric. The profile itself got a reboot. The 50th anniversary edition returns the silhouette to its fuller proportions and features a fleece-like upholstery available in eight colors.
Dolce & Gabbana Casa — The famed fashion house has a new home furnishings and accessories line. Opulent motifs and colorful patterns make their way onto furniture, home textiles, glassware, and ceramics. Their tableware collection is as daring as their fashion — animal prints, folkloric elements and iconic patterns abound. The pieces are perfect for making a statement tablescape.
Karimoku Case Study — Japan’s leading manufacturer of wooden furniture captures the reductive qualities of Japanese aesthetics — clean lines, simple forms, exceptional craftsmanship. The pieces are remarkable!
Kohler — This American kitchen and bath staple is an international sensation. As a global leader, they consistently launch dazzling plumbing products and fixtures, allowing for at-home, spa-like experiences.
Lodes — One of Europe’s leading designers and manufacturers of decorative lighting, the Venice-based company outshines with their contemporary creations. Balancing technical know-how with design prowess, their offering includes suspension, table, ceiling, wall, floor and outdoor lighting. Their Flar lamp, designed by Patrick Norguet, caught our eye. The blown glass diffuser sits atop a steel base in a simplistic configuration. Available in smokey colors, the lamp emits an ambient light that adds a soft touch to any room.
Pierre Frey — The French purveyor of traditional fabrics, wallpapers, carpets, rugs, and furniture, opened their first Milan showroom in the Brera Design District earlier this year, where they unveiled the Ruban collection, a design collaboration with Los Angeles-based furniture and lighting design studio, Estudio Persona. The geometric chairs and sofas are as playful as they are sturdy.
Ritzwell — This contemporary Japanese furniture manufacturer has impeccable taste. Their finely crafted sideboards, chairs, benches, and sofas perfectly balance form and function.
Images from Instagram: @lodesbrand, @dolcegabbana_casa, @lamaisonpierrefrey, @estudiopersona, @agapebathrooms, @bongioofficial, @patrick_norguet, @ariake_collection, @fendii, @blocstudios, @ritzwell_official, and @karimokucasestudy.
