In a fast-paced world, time is valuable. Simple and innovative solutions become increasingly necessary as tools to keep up with contemporary life. In answer to this demand, the fifth edition of Design Shanghai brings together established international brands alongside up-and-coming practitioners from China and around the world.
The fair is split into five main halls: Contemporary, foregrounding ground-breaking emerging practitioners alongside leading brands; Classic & Luxury, celebrating timeless aesthetics and quality craftsmanship; Collectible, exploring limited edition objects that occupy the intersection between art and design; Kitchen & Bathroom and Workplace.
Lifestyle brand Staxx, featured above, form part of the Contemporary strand. The company places sustainability at the forefront of its practice and recognises the need for straightforward answers in a complex landscape. Adhering to modernist principles, Staxx’s interlocking home furnishings require zero tools or hardware, offering an intuitive assembly resolution that is paired with a stylish look.
In a similar way, Zens’ philosophy of imagination and minimalism creates objects that promote the benefits of a balanced lifestyle. The company’s contemporary teaware and home décor ranges encourage the user to take a step back and reflect. Furthermore, Jacob Delafon’s collaboration with Parisian couturier Alexis Mabille, La Collection, is showcased as part of Kitchen & Bathroom. An interdisciplinary approach blends the imperatives of luxury fashion with a strikingly 21st century feel.
This multimedia theme is explored further through a series of installations, including Czech lighting initiative Preciosa’s crystal Forest and Automata. Comparably, Tord Boontje’s Luminous Reflection Chandelier and Lighting Components Collections celebrate the relaunch of Swarovski Crystal Palace, whilst Zhang Zhoujie Digital Lab’s Endless Form comprises 100 digitally-engineered chairs, pushing the boundaries of computer-aided practice.
In addition, 2018’s edition sees the return of well known names including Zaha Hadid Designs, known for a range of architecturally inspired pieces, as well as Danish brand Carl Hansen & Son, Swarovski, Roche Robois, Miele and Lasvit and Kelly Hoppen MBE, who is a speaker at the Design Visionaries, Visions & Futures forum.
From 14-17 March. Find out more here.
Credits:
1. Kobuk Side Table, Staxx.
2. Square Vase, Zens.
3. Jacob Delafon x Alexis Mabille, La Collection.
