The world of materials at Interzum

As we inch closer to the 2017 International Tour it’s time to take a look at the world of materials at Interzum. At this year’s fair, “Individuality” is the theme and nowhere will this be more evident that in the “Materials & Nature” segment of the show with its wide range of unique and versatile materials.

We take the presence of veneer granted in our every day lives – we find it in our cars, on our floors and, of course, our furniture. The “Initiative Furnier + Natur” (Veneer + Nature Initiative, or IFN), one of Interzum’s partners, explains the manufacturing process and the uniqueness of the material: each veneer is unique, just like the tree from which it was made. Of course, this also applies to the final product: the door, panel or furniture also takes on an individual character. It is only natural, therefore, that products made of veneer are particularly popular. After all, individuality is the goal we’re all striving towards in our society.

Lighting is a key area in terms of design and aesthetics and it can be used to highlight the individuality of a finished piece of furniture. Interzum exhibitor Halemeier is a specialist in lighting systems for furniture and shops and will present a range of new lighting ideas at this year’s show.

Katrin de Louw from the consultancy Trendfilter is convinced that shop design not only requires the right lighting, but also “emotional materials and surfaces, which are compatible with the message and invite you to linger”. For trend expert and interior designer, the theme of “individuality” not only plays a supporting role in the design of living spaces, but also in the choice of materials. de Louw finds the mix of materials particularly important, since it is precisely this mix that ensures endless possible combinations and the individuality we need in times of mass production. Made-to-order production also plays its part in expressing one’s own personality. Personalised products make us stand out from the crowd and boost our self-esteem. Our homes are our calling cards, in a manner of speaking. They display who we are – or at least, who we would like to be.

Sylvia Leydecker also works with materials and surfaces. The expert in new materials assesses the whole spectrum, from wood to carbon through to adhesive foil, in order to realise her ideas. The interior designer sees innovative technologies as the most significant new development in the field of materials, because digitisation is making advances in all aspects of life. According to Leydecker, environmentally friendly manufacturing processes and 3D-printing technology have opened up new design possibilities. Leydecker is particularly looking forward to innovations “that provide scope for my visions and expand my creative freedom to rethink things and express them”.

Whether you are looking for custom-made products or mass-produced items, Interzum, with all its innovations, will be a source of inspiration again this year – and we are looking forward to seeing what new heights of creativity these material inspirations will prompt the furniture manufacturers and designers to produce.

For more information visit interzum.com

Don’t forget – we’re taking final bookings for the 2017 International Tour to Interzum with side trips to sponsors SCM Group Australia, Miele and Hansgrohe. With two itineraries to choose from, this is the year to head overseas for ideas and inspiration you can apply to your business in Australia. For more information and detailed itineraries click here.