Bedroom Furniture at the International Furniture Fair Cologne, 18th To 24th January 1999

Furniture World Magazine

Many people nowadays are convinced that they have less time, that their day is more hectic than before. Whether that is so or not, the feeling is there and with it a growing need for peace and relaxation. This is surely one reason why the bedroom is slowly changing. Whereas years ago it was proposed to use this room as a hobby room or work space or even as a second living room, now all that has changed. This growing need has been translated by international designers into new furniture and furnishings ideas to be presented at the INTERNATIONAL FURNITURE FAIR in Cologne from 18th to 24th January 1999. Two different consumer demands can be recognized. The first is for "mobile" versions for those so-called modern nomads of our media age. They prefer individual, light-weight pieces of furniture and containers which can quickly be arranged to suit the whim of the moment and which can suit any surroundings. Wardrobes, in particular, are reduced in size, often divided into Is sections", sometimes a half-closed container is enough, a clothes rail on castors. Simple colors are preferred: transparent or light and colorful. The other bedroom concept reflects the longing for peace and seclusion, often with almost meditative overtones. Here everything is thoughtfully planned, arranged and chosen to create a harmonious and beneficial atmosphere. The considerable influence from the Far East that plays a role in this should not be overlooked. European designers have also been affected by the attractive aura of the East and it influences their designs. This symbiosis between East and West can be experienced especially in the design of beds: smooth surfaces in carefully chosen materials, low storage benches beside the bed, tall, screen-like headboards. Good designers understand how to create feelings which everyone understands by their shaping of everyday articles, such as protectiveness, the gesture of loving care. For example, Antonio Citterio, the "quiet star" of Milan, has designed a bed with a high headboard made from fine, dark wood curving round at the sides like a wind-break, providing protection just like grandfather's wing-chair, and an almost cloister-like peace and clarity. These new beds, though, have nothing to do with asceticism. They can be furnished with every refinement of modern bed interior design, and designers often provide matching pillows, quilts, pillow cases and bedspreads to complete the pleasant night-time ensemble. Wardrobes are often built-in, or partitioned off. Spaciousness and ease are the name of the day for both built-in and freestanding wardrobes. Large formats, frosted glass and discreet back-lighting predominate. The television can also be hidden away there. There are new formats for storage space with chests of drawers or storage chests, perhaps wall-mounted or in a horizontal run. In the spirit of peace and relaxation, all the new ranges are designed not to take up too much space. The householder will be rewarded for his "modest" decision with more space and much greater tranquillity.