• Review of Maison&Objet Autumn-Winter 2007/2008
• Preview of Maison&Objet Autumn/Winter 2007
• Preview of Meubles Paris and Maison&Objet 2008
• Review of Maison&Objet Spring-Summer 2008
• Preview: Maison&Objet is back in town
• Review of Maison&Objet September ’08 – Part 1: Colors and Materials
• Review of Maison&Objet September ’08 – Part 2: Design and Materials

By Le Vin Chin, with Diana Lagalante

The latest colors, the latest looks, the latest materials, textures and surface finishes – the latest in home-fashion – were presented at the recent Maison & Objet exhibition. Like moths to a flame, lovers of design congregated in Paris in January to dwell in the heady atmosphere of cutting-edge interior design.

Over 3000 exhibitors from all over the world presented their ideas for the homes of tomorrow in four major sections: Maison & Objet proper, presenting the latest trends in home furnishing; Scènes d’intérieur, showcasing luxury and extravagance; Maison & Objet éditeurs, spotlighting beautiful textiles; and NOW! Design à vivre, featuring pure, high-end design.

Colors were warm: browns, reds, yellows; particularly in the Ethnic Chic section.  Wood was finished with innovative effects, bright colors and lacquers and combined with plastics.  Elsewhere, glass (colored, or filigreed into ornate “disco” ball lights), mirrors and industrial metal surfaces were prevalent.  Gold leaf and gold dust were also seen on cigar boxes and sideboards, while black satin effects were seen on dining tables and novel plastics on kitchen surfaces.  Shapes were round.  In the Maison & Objet area, form and function combined to create an ambience of pure comfort, drawing the visitor in and keeping them there …

Here we present the most inspiring sights of the exhibition, as selected by the Ciba^® XYMARA^TM reporting team.