I was fortunate enough recently to attend Abitare il Tempo the Interior Design Trade Fair and Conference in Verona, Italy. A three day event with many wonderful exhibitors, held at the Veronafiere. Its central focus is people and trade professionals.
[dc]P[/dc]roducers, designers, distributors and architects encounter one another. At Abitare one sees very different kinds of Companies, from the large industrial to individual artisans, from established names to the young designers. An event where collections are exhibited because they illustrate quality projects, experience, company networks and areas of excellence of the Made in Italy brand.
Along with seeing beautfiul furniture, kitchens, lighting, flooring and accessories, I was also able to attend some interesting and informative seminars. It was very stimulating to be able to in an exhibition forum, listen to debate presenting the culture of design as the substantial and concrete element of the Interior Design market. One of the speakers was Monica Armani, Internationally recognised and respected Architect / Designer. She is married to Luca Dallabetta who is her partner in business as in life. They share a special understanding and although they might approach a topic from different viewpoints they are able to converge on a single idea. This has given them recognition internationally. She spoke on the topic of Designing Timeless Projects that have longevity and creativity. Monica Armani’s work has been produced by some key companies in contemporary design – like Poliform B&B Italia, Luceplan, Boffi to name a few.
There was a homage to Shiro Kuramate – one of Japan’s most important designers of the 20th Century. He created architectural interiors and furniture.
Many, many wonderful Italian Design Companies were represented at Abitare. I got to see a lot of product and meet people from various companies, most of which are not represented in New Zealand but great to see the products they manufacture and what is current in the Interior Design Industry. I saw some wonderful kitchens, lighting, flooring, accessories, shelving units, furniture, rugs – you name it.
We had our very own David Trubridge representing his lighting – which was great to see.
