What I learnt from Salone del Mobile 2019

What I learnt from Salone del Mobile 2019

Every year, as part of Design Week in Milan, Salone del Mobile hosts an unparalleled furniture exhibition, boasting the best and boldest of Italian craftsmanship. This year, I was among the thousands who flocked to the city to be a part of this unique experience.

As an expert in home remodeling, I know a thing or two about design. But I wanted to use this trip as an opportunity to refresh those lessons, learn new things, and really hone my skills.

I specialize in permanent fixtures like flooring, built-in cabinets, showers, and countertops. But I also keep up to date on the latest furniture and decor trends because it means I can visualize the room the way my clients will be experiencing it. With a comprehensive knowledge of decor, I can tailor the basics of the room to compliment all the different design elements that will be added once my work is complete.

One of the major lessons I learnt, not just at the exhibition but whilst traveling around Italy, was that it’s really worth it to invest in fine craftsmanship. A well made piece will last, while something that might be cheaper to begin with will likely need to be replaced over time.

Examining the joins in fine pieces of furniture at the Salone del Mobile expo and marveling at hand-carved marble and stone monuments that are hundreds of years old, I felt myself becoming even more appreciative of quality. This is something that I have always and will always reflect in the work I do crafting your perfect kitchen or bathroom.

That’s why the dRemodeling team and I are so passionate about structures and finishes that are built to last. As a client, you’re going to be living in these spaces and life can get a little crazy and messy sometimes. You need assurance that your new kitchen or bathroom won’t start degrading after a few short years.

Don’t be afraid to be bold

There were some really exciting pieces at the exhibition this year. From a bright yellow two-piece lounge suite with space-age curves to a chandelier teeming with delicate pink and purple flowers, the message from the designers was clear - don’t be afraid to make the space your own.

So why not step out of your comfort zone and add a bold pop of your favorite color or a feature wall with an interesting pattern? It will make the room really stand out. Take a look at this modern industrial kitchen we worked on to give you some inspiration.

There are so many ways to reflect your own unique personality in your home. It’s your canvas and the perfect place for artistic self-expression. With the rest of the team at dRemodeling, I can help build a foundation that perfectly encompasses your style. And I’ll always be working closely with you to create your dream room.

Mix it up with different patterns and textures

The exhibition boasted a range of interesting patterns and textures, which left me feeling inspired about the different ways a space can be transformed.

From a heavy dark wooden table to the plush suede finish of an accent chair, textures are a great way to give a room personality. After all, you’re not only going to be looking at it, you’re going to be living in it and interacting with it on a daily basis. You want it to be something that delights all the senses.

There were also plenty of intricate patterns incorporated into the pieces at the 2019 Salon del Mobile exhibition. Patterns create interest, as your eyes follow harsh geometric lines or swooping curves on chairs, rugs, or even light fittings.

Personally, I’m thinking a lot more about how I can include patterns and textures in permanent fixtures like tiles and built-in cabinets. Something as simple as shades of grey marbled into a white countertop can make a kitchen more interesting and inviting.

Stay playful and fun

It’s so important to strike the right balance between practical and playful in your living space. The many fun pieces at the exhibition this year were inspiring. One that stood out to me was a suspended accent chair shaped like a weaver bird’s nest. The white woven wicker added a softness that made me feel I could happily spend a Sunday afternoon enjoying a good book in its cosy nook.

I also think an key takeaway from this is that designing and remodeling should be fun. It’s an exciting process of breathing new life into your home. I love taking a client on this journey, guiding them, advising to them, and listening to them. And I do my best to make it a truly joyful experience.

Take inspiration from nature

It wasn’t just this bird’s nest chair that drew inspiration from nature. Many of the pieces at the expo paid homage to the great outdoors. From delicate leaf print wallpaper to accent chairs shaped like flowers in full bloom, the designers focused heavily on the natural world.

Using natural materials is a great way to incorporate nature into your space without committing to something that might be too over-the-top for daily living. Materials like wood, marble, and granite are a nod to the breathtaking world that surrounds us. Incorporating them into tiles, cabinets, and countertops brings the outdoors inside in a classic, understated way.

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Beauty can be functional

You don’t need to choose between practicality and style. Many of the pieces at the 2019 Salone del Mobile exhibition were designed by architects who carefully crafted them to fit seamlessly into daily living. Funky couches were still spacious and comfortable and outlandish light fittings provided the perfect warm, soft lighting.

As someone who’s passionate about creating the perfect fixtures for a room, I’m all for the marriage of beauty and functionality. I’m always looking for innovative ways to save space, create multifunctional pieces, or prioritize how someone would actually move and work in a space. All while using top quality products that are eye-catching and elegant.

Combine trendy items with timeless pieces

Staying up to date with the latest design trends helps keep your space feeling fresh. But it’s also important to have classic, timeless pieces so you don’t end up needing to completely redecorate every time you want to update the look of the room.

Seeing classic ancient architecture as I was touring around Italy and marveling over modern pieces at the Salone del Mobile exhibition really reminded me of this. A good example that the dRemodeling team worked on is this classy marble bathroom. It has a very old-world glamor feel combined with glossy metallic and glass finishes.

Your home is your kingdom

I loved exploring Italy and creating treasured memories. While I was there, I also visited my mother. It reminded me that a home is so much more than just a building. It’s a place where loved ones come together and connect.

That’s why the most important part of designing your home is you and your friends and family. I want to create inviting spaces - spaces perfect for sharing meals, laughing, chatting, opening up, and making memories. Your home is your kingdom and I want to reflect that in the work I do.

Now that I’m back home, I’m working to encapsulate and facilitate joy in the spaces I remodel. Whether that means installing the perfect kitchen island where you can gather for family breakfasts, or putting in his and hers sinks so you can contentedly get ready for the day together in your ensuite bathroom, I’m ready to tackle any design challenge that will help make your life that little bit more fun and stress-free.

My trip to the 2019 Salone del Mobile exhibition has left me feeling refreshed and inspired, and ready to create trendy, bold, fun, and functional rooms for you and your loved ones to enjoy.

Visit our portfolio to see some of our work. You can also get in touch to discuss how you can implement some of these design lessons in your space.