This event showcased highly-interesting designs and collaborations and was interesting for both those who love furniture and those who love design
In conjunction with SingaPlural, the International Furniture Fair Singapore and ASEAN Furniture Show (IFFS & AFS) was just held over the weekend. Featuring a collection of furniture and home accessories from 39 different countries ranging from ASEAN to Europe, it was an eye-opening experience for those who love design or interesting furniture.
The IFFS helps to facilitate conversations and create business opportunities between manufacturers and designers, distributors, retailers, and hoteliers. It has become an international event that features the best of furniture and home accessories from prominent manufacturers and designers across the globe.
A few lucky people also purchased personal pieces of these well-made works on the last day of IFFS (on Mar 16) when it was open to the public.
There were other design incentives that made the IFFS/AFS a holistic furniture and design event.
Furniture Design Award
Organised by the Singapore Furniture Industries Council (SFIC), the Furniture Design Award aims to discover new design talents and to be a reputable showcase for the unique creations of the best creative minds. The award is held in conjunction with the IFFS / AFS, The Décor Show and Hospitality 360°.
The winning entry [to be announced] will win a 12sqm exhibition booth at the IFFS/AFS for the following year.
Asian Star Showcase
With much attention on the Western designs that have impacted the industry, it is now time for the spotlight to move to Asia. There have been a rising number of distinguished achievements by Asian designers over the years that has impacted the industry in Asia.
Printed lighting, to use light as part of the design, is an innovation curated by Singaporean designer Kenny Hong. An example of this innovation is “The Cloud” design installation displayed at the IFFS/AFS.
The printed technology has been utilised in more projects such as the iLight@Marina Bay 2014 and National Day Parade 2014.
Indonesian born, Alvin T is another designer that has been getting more attention recently and impacting the industry with his designs. He hopes to establish a new language of what modern contemporary Indonesian design could be by reinterpreting local tradition infused with a contemporary approach.
Starting in 2005 when he exhibited “Snug” in Design ex Melbourne Australia, Alvin T has now designed a Taffeta chair that is launched by Moooi during Salone del Mobile Milano in 2014.
With more Asian talents in the design industry, as evidenced at IFFS/AFS, it is time to let the spotlight shine on Asia and await their upcoming innovations.
By Rydell Tan
SingaPlural took place from Mar 10-15 at 99 Beach Road, and IFFS/AFS from Mar 13-16 at Singapore Expo Halls 1-6.
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