1 Grid shelving by Interlübke
The main focus at the German manufacturer’s stand, this versatile system combines storage boxes with shelves of different depths, so that the edges can project past the tapered columns, sit flush with them or be slightly recessed.
2 Prado sofas by Ligne Roset
The French brand packed its stand with a multitude of products launching in Cologne, including updates and extensions to existing lines. One of its debuts for 2014 is the Prado sofa system by Christan Werner, which combines bench-like divans with hefty cushions that act as adjustable seat backs.
3 The wall of tools at Das Haus by Louise Campbell
Danish furniture and lighting designer Louise Campbell conceived Das Haus, the fair’s central exhibit, as a place where simplicity and comfort reign, perfectly capturing the feel of the show as a whole. The space featured extensive beds and dining tables – speaking directly to the theme of residential tranquility – as well as this feature wall, with a trove of tools ideal for the domestic bricoleur.
4 Swell collection and more at Normann Copenhagen
The fun-loving Danish brand displayed several new accessories, including the Krenit bowls and Nord table. As well, the Swell collection’s rounded armchair and two-seater are now joined by the Circus pouf, upholstered in grey or matching terracotta.
5 Office suite at Riva 1920
This expansive office suite by the Italian manufacturer of sustainable wood furnishings feels hefty yet elegant. The solid wood cabinets are paired with blackened steel work surfaces and accents to achieve a dark, luxurious look.
6 Opera by Softline
Exemplifying the trend of privacy-boosting furnishings, this lounge collection of one- and two-seaters includes versions with high backs that extend above sitters’ heads. A low-backed version with a more traditional profile is also available.
7 Edison sofa by Leolux
Another stand replete with new launches was that of Dutch manufacturer Leolux. Among several innovative soft-seating options, the slouchy-chic Edison sofa (seen here) features seat cushions and pillow-like armrests upholstered in a single piece of leather to achieve a seamless look.
8 Everything at Lago
Italy’s Lago captured a few different trends that were in the air; at right, the shelves and carpet tiles share a unique trapezoid shape, representing a trend towards the use of oblique angles, particularly in shelving. The patchwork armchair at left can be disassembled into a futon, upholstered stool and side table.
9 Parasite collection by Samuel Treindl
In the D3 Design Injection pavilion, innovative projects from students and independent designers explored hand-made and small-batch manufacturing methods. Above, Samuel Treindl’s Parasite collection includes sheet-metal storage units with quirky cutouts, the excised material used to make clocks and lamps that go with the pieces.
10 Rohstoff Design at Designers Fair
Among the many off-site exhibitions that coincide with IMM Cologne was Designers Fair, which hosted this collection from Essen’s Rohstoff Design. The suite of tables, seating and storage exemplifies the firm’s preference for clean lines and straightforward functionality.