Denfair is an annual display of Australian and overseas Furnishing, Art and Décor items, and the perfect platform for designers, makers and retailers to connect and promote their business. A great display of new and established business. Denfair is now in its fourth year and has proven able to display international trends next to relevant Australian design. Among the many and beautiful stands I have seen there, I have listed below just a few examples of what made another successful design fair.
Visual as well as tactile textures are always a winner, bringing character and interest into our homes and a welcoming feel. Wood, leather and woven materials were on show and explored in both furniture and decor; perfect for these colder months. The beautiful items on show at Spence & Lyda and Halcyon Lake screamed to be touched and connected with, while at Zuster the range of new timber fusion pieces provided simple but elegant pieces, beautifully handmade in their Australian family owned workshops.
Lighting can be just as exciting as artwork in your home, adding a sculptural element as well as the ability to alter both light and mood. Directly from Venice, the ethereal designs of Giopato & Coombes were on show in the District stand, while ISM Objects had streamlined shapes of modern and sculptural strength. At the Rakumba stand the works of different designers were on show beautifully displayed as if in a gallery, and this year they achieved Denfair Best International Product Award with the Typography range.
I’m always excited at seeing young designers offering new interpretations of furniture and decor. Usually hand made, allowing them to show off their skills, the new designs tend to refine or challenge both aesthetics and functionality, with wood as the favourite among the materials chosen. Rhys Cooper offers streamlined design, yet organic in its essence, while Apparentt furniture and sculptures play with geometric shapes and modernist volumes. Made By Michael offers a small range, yet accurate in making, function and beauty. As you already know from reading my blog and the interviews you find there, I love supporting both emerging and existing talented Australian makers. Stay tuned for more detailed interviews on some emerging Aussie talents that I met at Denfair.
The Denfair award for Best Australian Product was shared among Adam Cornish and Jon Goulder for their beautiful designs, which can be found at Spence and Lyda and Made By Tait.
Also on show was a small selection from the recent Good Design Awards, once again celebrating design that goes beyond ‘good looks’, but also includes function, sustainability and environmental considerations. Leaving Denfair I’m always glad I made the trip, apart from taking with me the reassurance that Australian commitments to quality and good design is strong and always current. Denfair is also a great chance to catch up with many Melbourne based friends and colleagues, where an excuse to stop for a wine, seems like a well deserved must!
James Treble is an ambassador for Planet Ark and firmly believes in sensible purchasing, recycling and creative re-purposing. James has three decades of accumulated experience in the Building Industry, Real Estate and Interior Design and regularly shares his knowledge and experience in adding value to properties through effective design & styling. Watch his free videos on YouTube, and follow him on Facebook and Instagram for more free information.
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