Salone del Mobile 2018
26th April 2018
Whilst sometimes it may be simpler to draw a line under finished projects, the reality is we become quite attached to the work we create. It’s crucial for us to monitor the success of our work once its left our hands and reached market. If the client with whom we’ve collaborated is also great work with, then we’ll even actively seek out to help them with future projects. That’s why when Samuel Heath invited us to the launch of phase 2 of the ‘Landmark’ taps and showers collection at Salone del Mobile, we leapt at the opportunity see first hand how it sat with the rest of the competition.
Salone del Mobile di Milano – The Milan Furniture Fair – is the largest trade fair of its kind in the world, showcasing the latest furniture and design from high-end manufacturers worldwide. It’s a fantastic opportunity to celebrate your product, see the latest trends and study your competitors.
Of the twenty-two halls used in Salone del Mobile, two were dedicated to the bathroom. Among the 243 exhibitors in those two halls, it was clear to see a movement toward water-sustainable products; whether it be in filtering pollutants or ensuring not a drop was wasted, it was great to see how the design community had reacted to the latest water-related issues. Staying sustainable and eco-friendly is one of our main goals at Sanders, so it was great to demonstrate how we’ve been doing it in our studio, and seeing how others have done it in theirs.
Whilst sustainability was a key theme, aesthetics certainly hadn’t been neglected as a consequence. Soft and elegant palettes, ergonomic design and a renewed appreciation for the bathroom as an environment was evident in the 20,600-m2 space. The bathroom, once a purely purpose-built room, designated for hygiene and maintenance has been transformed into a retreat from modern life, offering relaxation, wellness and space – something we learned to appreciate after being crammed in the back of a Fiat 500 with 4 colleagues on the hour long trip back to the hotel, through a never ending succession of Milanese roadworks!
Regardless of the experience we’ve gained in design over the years, we never turn down the chance to learn more, especially in such a fast-moving industry. We took the opportunity to venture out of the bathroom halls to see what the rest of the fair had to offer. After two more days at the Salone del Mobile, we returned to the UK, ready to bring our new inspirations to work the following week.
Needless to say, Salone was fascinating, and we only wish we’d had more time to take it in. Showcases like these are key to our industry, whether it be in promoting your own work or admiring the work of others. They’re an interesting and accurate way to see how the creative world is progressing. Unfortunately our trip was all work, no play, however in future we’ll be sure to book time to see sights like Duomo – maybe with a slightly bigger hire car?
