Objects at Maison et Objet 2013

Maharajahs, nylon diamonds, scissor charms more

Amid the vast array of design to behold at this year’s Maison et Objet—we were interested in lighting, seating and innovation, in particular—were smaller accessories that give the very show its name. Here, a trio of designers presenting objects from sleek scissor necklaces and nylon diamonds to Indian scarves featuring vintage photos of a maharajah. Pondichery We first marveled at Vasanty Manet’s accessories in her …

Kartell: The Culture of Plastics

The Italian furniture maker's plastic history

From the very beginning of Kartell‘s history plastic and design have been the mantra. Founded by Giulio Castelli, a chemical engineer, the Italian furniture brand is the most influential proponent of plastic industrial design, building a sizable following through quality production processes and design contribution by innovative designers. The homes of the 1960s and ’70s were very keen on accepting this experimentation and thus the …

Material Innovation at Maison et Objet 2013

3D printed architecture, wall gardens and electroluminescent lighting technology at this year's fair

Earlier in the week we looked at unconventional seating design and the use of light as themes at Maison et Objet 2013, now we take a step closer to the design process and look back on a few material innovations we saw at this year’s fair. From wall gardens to 3D printed prototypes, the following three projects represent a possible direction in future design. Karoo …