From wellness to materiality and the changing requirements of an office space – no stone is being left unturned as a design reference at Orgatec 2018. We take a look at the discussion points arising at the biennale commercial tradeshow.
October 24th, 2018
Orgatec should not be mistaken as simply a commercially-focused version of Salone del Mobile Milan. Through it’s highly curated and razor-sharp focus, visitors are given the opportunity to contemplate some of the harder hitting themes happening in the design space and how they impact the workplace.
For the 2018 fair, big topics are coming up for debate – wellness, agile working, experimental materials and an ever-decentralised workforce being just a couple that stand out.
Given that the average worker will spend two-thirds of their lives at work, it is not too much to ask for an environment that helps our health rather hindering it. Design is a key player in facilitating health and wellbeing. And it can also be implemented in a wide variety of ways – from sustainability and biophilia, down to simpler executions, such as chairs that encourage movement.
All of these things are at the fingertips of designers. What new products are ensuring that office design can be a healthy space? How are closed loop and sustainable methods creating furniture that can have more than one life?
Open plan offices and the subsequent issues of noise and privacy have been hotly debated in the industry for some time. How exactly is design responding? Walking the halls of Koelnmesse shows that there has been an explosion of acoustic products, pod systems, breakout booths and sound-quieting lighting.
Along with that has been the rise of moveable and adaptable furniture ranges. This design movement is all about empowering workers and letting them choose how to make their space work for them. And it’s not showing any signs of slowing down.
One area that is continuing to push the boundaries through innovation is the development of new materials. It is also through the thoughtful selection of materials that designers can bring in a touch of softness. The concept of blurred typologies is not new (ie. workplaces that feel more residential) but one area where that notion truly comes to life is through materiality. Whether finishes, fabrics or flooring – a combination of unique materials can elevate a project. How are materials being applied in new and inventive ways? Interestingly, some of the most interesting innovations circle back to a sustainable or wellness agenda.
These areas of interest will be covered in more detail through the fair, so stay tuned for insights straight from Orgatec 2018, or follow us on Instagram via #IndesignOrgatec2018.
A searchable and comprehensive guide for specifying leading products and their suppliers
Keep up to date with the latest and greatest from our industry BFF's!
The Sub-Zero Wolf showrooms in Sydney and Melbourne provide a creative experience unlike any other. Now showcasing all-new product ranges, the showrooms present a unique perspective on the future of kitchens, homes and lifestyles.
In the pursuit of an uplifting synergy between the inner world and the surrounding environment, internationally acclaimed Interior Architect and Designer Lorena Gaxiola transform the vibration of the auspicious number ‘8’ into mesmerising artistry alongside the Feltex design team, brought to you by GH Commercial.
Create a configuration to suit your needs with this curved collection.
Marylou Cafaro’s first trendjournal sparked a powerful, decades-long movement in joinery designs and finishes which eventually saw Australian design develop its independence and characteristic style. Now, polytec offers all-new insights into the future of Australian design.
Paying homage to that wonderful tool of life, the book, SJK Architects’ design for the new headquarters of Penguin Random House is both a temple to the library and a captivating place to work.
The AIA Alta Wellness Haven offers the complete package for health and wellbeing away from the busy city life in Hong Kong and does it through a stellar interior design.
The internet never sleeps! Here's the stuff you might have missed
When iconic brands wield their influence, the ripples extend far beyond aesthetics. And so when the MillerKnoll collective formed, the very concept of design shifted, supercharging the industry’s aspiration to create a better world into an unwavering sense of responsibility to do so.
With Milan 2024 only a few weeks away, we sneak a view of some of the most exciting pieces set to go on show – from lighting design to furniture, here are nine preview products.
2024’s theme, “Reawaken,” calls for a journey through reinvention and sustainability.
Overcoming pandemic hurdles to redefine guest experiences amidst Sydney’s bustling entertainment precinct, The Darling has undergone a two-year restoration that melds Art Deco interiors with the necessities of hotel living.