A multitude of visitors returned the Milan Furniture Fair to its pre-pandemic splendor. The 62nd edition, scheduled last week, recorded a 17% increase in attendance compared to 2023. In absolute terms, 361,417 tickets were issued at the Rho Fiera, not too far from the 2018 record (434,000 tickets). Regarding the operators, 658% came from abroad, with a significant return from China followed by Germany, Spain, Brazil, France, and the United States.
The Palette
Warm earth tones were the protagonists in the 2024 edition, with brick and oxide red taking the lead, trailed by rust and ochre. These nuances were found on many surfaces, both indoor and outdoor furniture, especially in glossy versions. Designers indulged in combinations with totally matte natural essences, particularly oak, ash, and Canaletto walnut.
Supporting Actors
Recurrent also were the so-called “dusty” pastel tones: namely sage, powder, and powder blue in strictly matte versions. These colors were particularly appreciated for their complementarity. They are defined as “dusty” due to the gray component that conveys feelings of comfort and relaxation. Through the skilful use of gray, green turns to sage, pink becomes powder, and blue resolves into powder blue.
The Search for Luxury
The Salone del Mobile is increasingly positioning itself as a container of luxury, representing for furniture what Fashion Week is for fashion. In this perspective, the finish plays a crucial role: scratched metal is among the most popular effects. Among the materials, pitted smoked glass accompanies metal and lacquers. Marble, which had dominated the previous edition, seems to have been relegated to the attic.
The Year of Kitchens
2024 also marked the return of Eurocucina. We note a trend that promises to be the leitmotif in the composition of spaces. The kitchen island becomes dominant: it acquires significant dimensions to definitively play the role of divider with the living room. Many brands also proposed outdoor kitchens. Not just simple barbecues but real interior concepts translated outdoors.
Shapes and Details
With more conviction than twelve months ago, designers leaned towards rounded, soft, welcoming shapes. Edges disappeared from sofas, chairs, tables, and generally from furniture accessories. We also saw the intertwining of different materials in the composition of unique seats.
New in April 2024 are the reeded finishes (narrow slatted boiseries) for both kitchens and sideboards. Also interesting are the combinations of low coffee tables of different shapes, sizes, and finishes. Finally, we note that some important brands are using crystal feet for both beds and tables, seeking lightness and invisibility.
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