The most awaited event of the year, Messe Frankfurt was bigger and fuller this year. The fair saw a significant increase in both visitors and exhibitors from across the globe. Spread across 360,000 sq meters, the fair was a blend of consumer goods, conscious design, and innovation at its finest. Here is a round-up of some trends we spotted that you can embrace in your homes this year.

#1 Lamps Of All Shades and Sizes 

Lighting has always been a key factor in defining the mood or tone of any space. Overhead and desk lighting are often considered staples in a home. This year, numerous brands honed in on this timeless object by adding colour, character, and various design elements. In addition to setting the mood, these lamps can easily become a statement accessory– even in minimalist spaces. By tweaking their shape, colour options, and modalities Sompex offered a variety of options. Many of the emerging like Japanese designer Atsushi Shindo and Indian designer Priyam Doshi of ‘Name, Place, Animal, Thing’ were looking at ways to create conversations through form in their designs. Inspired by the traditional Japanese Haori Kimono, Shindo used the shape of this attire as the outer layer of the lamp. Meanwhile, Doshi takes inspiration from the jungle to bring the raw charm into your home. 

Also read: 9 Artistic Lighting Pieces To Illuminate Your Homes For Diwali

#2 An Exploration of Materials 

While sustainability in design has been a topic of conversation for years now, brands have finally begun to embrace this approach in a way that lends itself to aesthetic and visually pleasing designs. Recozy for instance found an innovative way to convert products at the end of their life cycle into raw materials for a 3D printer. This in turn is used to create contemporary and chic vase designs. They have built an exchange program where consumers can send recycled plastics and composite materials in return for discounts at their store. Other examples included using alternative and more local materials like jute fibres and banana fibres as an alternative to metallics and glass. Working with local craftsmen in Afghanistan Chukpalu headed by Rahim Walizada, had on display a chic and traditional selection of overhead lamps alongside contemporary rugs woven by local weavers. In this way, Walizada brings folklore and craft tradition into homes with his subtle and elegant designs.

#3 Prints On Porcelain

Vintage charm and soft aesthetics have gently made their way into mainstream designs. Prints, bold colours, and more complex designs on ceramic were recurrent themes at the fair this year. Newcomer brands like Art-Hall Ceramics from Ukraine had on display a stunning collection of hand-painted ceramics with relief designs and soft pastels inspired by springtime. With rabbits, florals and easter-themed tableware the set is festive or a wonderful spring refresh to your host game. Meanwhile, renowned German brand Goebel had on display their collaboration series with pop artist Romero Britto. Set in black and gold, each figurine is made by hand. Even brands like Rosenthal and Kersten had an array of pop-art-inspired vases. By revamping a material as traditional as ceramics, these brands breathe life into a material often reserved only for special occasions, making them more accessible items of soft luxury.