In this second installment from the IFFS 2012 (International Furniture Fair Singapore 2012), which ran from March 9 – 12, we have reflections directly from the show floor. From colors to constructions, this was the place to find all the latest creations and inspirations!
TRENDS FOR THE OUTDOOR INDUSTRY FROM IFFS.
Within the show there was an overall increased use of tropical patterned fabrics and bright and jewel tone colorations. The bright trend also was carried across furnishing constructions including wood, metal and PE (polyethelyene) weaves. Overall, the show floor expressed a turning away from neutrals and an embracing of strong colors including purple, pink, orange and aqua; with all having a story to tell.
Unique wall treatments and screens were introduced for outdoors. Once again, stunning new performance fabrics were presented by Sunbrella®® and Silverline. For companies looking for lower priced performance textile options, there was a high incidence of olefin based fabrics on display. However, buyers beware. Although olefin technology is working toward less plastic-y and a softer hand, the softness and superiority of solution dyed acrylic remains the high end choice.
While outdoor wicker continues to dominate along with acacia and teak woods, fully upholstered products were on display and appeared poised to make significant in-roads to dominate luxury and high mid-market collections. The blurring of the lines between in and outdoor furnishings continued to be on display throughout the show. A message heard repeated was the importance of educating retailers by manufacturers with regard to exterior use and performance features for subsequent educating of consumers.
Everywhere throughout the show, edgy, contemporary designs were leading the way. Collection after collection focused upon clean cut and heavy design driven pieces. Numerous companies blended distinctive looks by re-mixing materials and color palettes to illustrate uniqueness and cutting edge design leadership
Hospitality Show.
For those attending IFFS, multiple show experiences were available in the one expanded venue. The idea-packed Hospitality Show offered comprehensive product collections for businesses across the hospitality and contract marketplace. In this segment, trends on display included ever-increasing color options and clean line designs. Of course, there were the bizarre and unusual collections that made you wonder if you were attending a furniture fair or a space conference.
Green Goods.
One of the key aspects of the fair was the reinforcement of Singapore’s commitment to sustainability. Singaporeans, like the citizens of many Asian countries, have become increasingly aware of innovative at recycling, incorporated into construction materials and products. The Green Pavilion was conceptualized to launch the GREEN initiative with a showcase by the Singapore Furniture Industry Council. Not only were innovative sustainable products presented, but a strong part of the Green initiative was the presentation of environmentally conscious materials. One of the most impressive introductions was a presentation by Jules Kwan, managing director, Space Development & URBN Hotels and Resorts. Mr. Kwan envisioned the future and presented concepts and ideas to revolutionize how to approach not only furniture, but all materials in an effort to develop smart materials that would mean an end to the use of natural resources.
Outdoor World.
In outdoor living, one trend we saw increasing in popularity was with regard to the all-important cushioning for both deep seating and dining furnishings. Greater investment is being placed in higher quality foam including the use of fast dry foams (fast Dry™) or Quick Dry Foam ™. The reticulated cell structure foams allow for immediate use after rain storms.
In addition to the introduction of greater numbers of olefin textiles for outdoor, Sunbrella®® continued not take its position for granted and offered numerous innovative introductions. Included were fabrics trends moving significantly beyond traditional plain weaves to incredible jewel toned jacquards and textural weaves.
MORE SINGAPORE UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL.
And after a hard day of walking around trade show halls, Singapore offered the unique and slightly bizarre attraction of a fish spa. In the fish spas, tiny little fish would nibble away dead skin and provide the ultimate in pedicures. For those looking for a more detailed body cleanse, larger 8-12″ fish await…..maybe next year!
ARCHITECTURE IN SINGAPORE.
To truly experience Singapore, taking in the beauty and historical significance of its architecture is a must. This unique island nation has been influenced by numerous places and periods and it is reflected in the varied architecture. Within a relatively small distance, one can experience eclectic styles influenced by immigration, trading and colonial history to the tendency of more contemporary architecture that incorporates trends shared with the world at large. From places of worship to international financial centers, the architecture of Singapore will inspire and educate and in total, take your breath away.
PARTING REFLECTION.
The IFFS 2012 and its host city, Singapore, offered inspiration, innovation and increasing amounts of just great ideas for furnishings for interior and exterior spaces. Now on to the next show!