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Well rounded – these design brands love curves

16.5.2024

Translation: Eva Francis

An unexpected design element is becoming more and more popular at Milan Design Week every year. Curves are part of a major trend.

At this year’s Milan Design Week, I took lots of photos of furniture and home accessories featuring round elements. Not because I thought they were trendy, but because I've always loved round things. In particular, spheres remind me of those colourful glass marbles from my childhood, which awaken a passion for collecting and the desire to roll them around for fun.

However, now that I’m back in Zurich and have looked through my photos at all the objects – including designs by Daniel Kolodziejczak and Giácomo Tomazzi Studio – I’m pretty sure round shapes were so strongly represented this year that it’s a tendency that stems from the big curved design trend.

Joia floor lamp from the Antechamber collection by Daniel Kolodziejczak | Honey calcite, metal
Source: Pia Seidel

Doesn’t this remind you of glass marbles? — Joia floor lamp from the Antechamber collection by Daniel Kolodziejczak | Honey calcite, metal
Source: Pia Seidel

Well rounded: the ball is made of honey calcite, which can be found in the USA, Brazil and Mexico.
Source: Pia Seidel

Sol chair by Giácomo Tomazzi Studio | Wood, rattan, metal
Source: Pia Seidel

Wooden beads orbit the backrest like a string of pearls. — Sol chair by Giácomo Tomazzi Studio | Wood, rattan, metal
Source: Pia Seidel

I was surprised to find out I’m not the only one who loves round things, but in fact, this micro trend isn’t a coincidence. Whether as a decorative element in a lamp or a chair, globes, like all round objects, convey a sense of security, warmth and calm. They resemble pearls on pieces of jewellery and have what it takes to beautify our interiors. Natalia Criado’s collection, for example, would only look half as good without round handles.

Perla Cup & Perlina Torch Cup by Natalia Criado | Silver-plated and gold-plated brass
Source: Pia Seidel

Mucura by Natalia Criado | Silver-plated brass
Source: Pia Seidel

Aperitivo Set by Natalia Criado | Silver-plated brass — Mucura by Natalia Criado | Silver-plated brass
Source: Pia Seidel

Oho by Natalia Criado | Silver-plated brass
Source: Pia Seidel

In feng shui theory (article in German), organic and curved shapes in interior design are often associated with positive energy and harmony. They’re said to promote the harmonious flow of Qi, vital energy, through the room. Examples such as furniture designed by Zariia Ishkildina and trays by Vero International can create a calming effect thanks to their soft silhouettes.

Redish dresser of drawers by Zariia Ishkildina | Wood
Source: Pia Seidel

Redish bar cabinet by Zariia Ishkildina | Wood — Redish dresser of drawers by Zariia Ishkildina | Wood
Source: Pia Seidel

Onda Tray by Natalia Criado for Vero International | MDF, walnut wood
Source: Pia Seidel

Onda Tray by Natalia Criado for Vero International | MDF, walnut
Source: Pia Seidel

Equilibrium Shelf by Navet for Vero International | Aluminium, ash — Onda Tray by Natalia Criado for Vero International | MDF, walnut
Source: Pia Seidel

Since my discovery, more and more curved designs have rolled past me in the Galaxus range. I’ve added them below. They’re decorative and create an inviting atmosphere.

Coat racks + Coat hooks

present time Wall hook Neptune Small 4 hooks, gold/black, Conscious

Roll dispensers

Oyoy Kitchen Roll Holder Inka Nature

Water bottles + Thermos flasks

Lund London Skittle

0.50 l

Zuiver Candle Holder Bubbles One Shiny Purple (10 x 10 x 26 cm)

Candleholders

CHF33.90

Zuiver Candle Holder Bubbles One Shiny Purple

10 x 10 x 26 cm

Table lamps

Oyoy Table Lamp Kasa 50 cm, Blue

0 lm, E14

Pendant lamps

−13%

Returned & Tested

CHF344.53 currently CHF396.– new

Ferm Living Lod Pendant

Coffee tables

CHF667.–

Woood Steppe

38 x 110 x 72 cm

Header image: Pia Seidel

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Pia Seidel

Senior Editor

Pia.Seidel@digitecgalaxus.ch

Like a cheerleader, I love celebrating good design and bringing you closer to everything furniture- and interior design- related. I regularly curate simple yet sophisticated interior ideas, report on trends and interview creative minds about their work.

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