Heimtextil Frankfurt: Plush and pomp

Most interesting at trade fairs are often the innovation areas, where high-tech achievements are presented and young designers show off their designs. This was also the case at Heimtextil. However, besides the high-tech materials and new designs to be seen in the "Well-being" special area, there were also quite a few things on display that were strongly reminiscent of the 1970s: thick chair cushions, plush fabrics, feathers and a great deal in orange, brown and green-yellow.

The wild mix of patterns with bold colours and opulent décor was also reflected in the exhibition halls. Marburg, for example, displayed décors with gold beads and strong structures. There were also some whose design imitated the wood pattern of birches.

While the 3D trend in wallpapers isn't new by any means, many manufacturers focused even more intensively on the topic of structure. Experimentation with materials was in evidence, including with thin Japanese paper, jute, leather, velvet - clearly a case of anything goes. Wallpapers are increasingly changing from being visual objects to becoming tactile experiences. There were even stitched wallpapers with a visible seam.

The wallpapers of Zimmer+Rohde resembled a theatre set that plays with different motifs and material contrasts. While the background appeared leather-like, the leaf and branch patterns were made of a velvety fabric. Nobilis presented a wallpaper that resembled glued-on stone strips. In addition to these rich fabrics, patterns and textured wallpapers, there were also lots of designs from the "Scandinavian Living" area, which provided a pleasant contrast.

There were fewer design and style innovations for curtains and venetian blinds than for wallpapers. However, manufacturers such as JAB Anstoetz surprised with an innovative and futuristic material - venetian blinds with holes or made of a 3D fabric.