"Dutch Design" prominently shown at IMM in Cologne, Germany January 14-20, 2008

Furniture World Magazine

When it comes to design and architecture the Netherlands is one of the world's most intriguing locations. Whether high end furniture, artistic and experimental accessories, or the completely innovative living environments of top architect Rem Koolhaas; the creative minds from the country famous for tulips and canals score high in every conceivable discipline. Attendees to imm cologne will be able to view all this and more from January 14-20, 2008, 2008 at the Cologne Fairgrounds in Germany. "Dutch Design" is part of a program to promote international designs in various countries. "Our goal is to provide our attendees with a very broad international design range", explains Wolfgang Kranz, Executive Director of Koelnmesse. "By putting a spotlight on the Netherlands as partner country, we are initially heightening awareness of Dutch forms of design." The project is supported by Koelnmesse, the Central Association of Dutch Furniture Manufacturers (CBM), the Dutch Furniture Export Organisation (DUFEX) and the Dutch Agency for International Business and Cooperation (EVD) The Dutch Design concept will be showcased in various pavilions tailored to different segments attending imm-cologne consisting of furniture dealers, manufacturers and design professionals. Information on the "Partner country - The Netherlands " exhibition will be available at all entrances and will highlight what Dutch Design has to offer to attendees. Dutch designers and architects have worked hard to ensure that the exhibition will be an impressive showcase of design work. The „Droog Design Group“ is a unique design group that shapes the image and content of Dutch design culture, and the country's most renowned designers have been involved with the group at some point. Some of them, such as Hella Jongerius or Joris Laarman, worked on the previous "ideal house" projects at imm cologne. Apart from the high-profile and striking designs that are not always suitable for everyday use, the Dutch also have a large pool of well-known and first-class furniture designers. Every day, they are dedicated to making sitting more attractive, relaxation more varied, and sleep more comfortable. They work for a wide variety of companies throughout the world and have been instrumental in shaping the style of foreign furniture companies, with lasting effect. The individual results of their projects will be on show for everyone to see in the Dutch pavilions. This means that visitors to imm cologne will have a unique opportunity to sample a bite-sized taste of the design culture of the Netherlands, and to use the newly-acquired knowledge in their own profession. For more information on this event as well as questions about hotel and registration e-mail to info@koelnmessenafta.com