PRESSINFORMATION | 10. February 2014 Current trends in the Austrian Furniture Industry Dolunay Yerit on sustainability, individual combinations and high-tech furniture Nature – sustainable down to the last detail Authentic, honest and tactile – 'natural chic' is still very much on trend and brings both warmth and quality to interior décor. A treat for all the senses: oiled solid wood carries the scent of the forest and rough sawn surfaces feel simply great to touch. Textiles left in their natural state, such as wool, linen, hemp and leather, also enhance living spaces. When these are combined with organic forms, truly treasurable pieces can result, from the flexible recliner right through to the 'healthy sleeping system'. This was demonstrated by Austrian manufacturers at the start of the year at the international furniture trade fair 'imm cologne'. One of the major strengths of the Austrian Furniture Industry is the way in which skilled craftsmanship is successfully combined with exclusive design and innovative technology to produce quality furniture. Its creations are cosy yet modern, modest with a discreet hint of luxury, have a clearly-defined design style, are sustainable, extremely comfortable and promote a healthy living environment. Mix it up – individual colour and material combinations When coloured glass meets natural wooden surfaces, attractive combinations result – after all, life is colourful. Contrasts and swathes of colour are therefore a perfect choice. Simple ideas often have a big impact, such as practical reversible cushions in fabric and leather. Available in a variety of sizes and shapes, they make for colourful and tactile surroundings. Stitching, cut-outs and striking accents also catch the eye. The absolute colours of the moment, alongside modest greys and coppers, are various blue and green hues, be it soft and gentle lighter shades, deep, dark tints or petrol hues. It is up to consumers to decide how vivid they want to make choices. Ultimately, what they like goes. The enormous range of colours and materials available provides the freedom to create individual designs. Whether in modest natural shades or a bright and bold combo of chequered patterns, whether wood with metal or glass with varnish – it's all in the combination. Design & high-tech – entertainment in the living room From basic solutions, through to home cinema and high-end audio, technology is moving in to our living spaces. The need to integrate this multimedia technology discreetly yet effectively is bringing about new interior design solutions. Flexibility is key: cable ducts, ventilation solutions and precisely fitting furniture make it possible to play around with the space. Modules, panels, individual cupboards and glass display cabinets inspire new combinations. This also applies to sofas, armchairs, couches etc. Cosy and yielding, they stretch and flex in all directions. Switch to a recliner at the press of the button, and marvel at the fantastic storage solutions available. Contemporary LED lighting systems set the mood and give a room a whole new look. Everywhere in the living room light shimmers from shelves, niches sparkle and glass display cabinets become star features. “Royal Oak“ bed “Stella“ Living room suite Photos: ADA / The Austrian Furniture Industry “Andres“ bench “Malaun“ seating furniture family Photos: Haapo 1910 / The Austrian Furniture Industry “La Famiglia“ Photos: Joka / The Austrian Furniture Industry Woodspring bed range ® cubus pure programme – Venetian Oak “aye” chair Photos: TEAM 7 / The Austrian Furniture Industry “LowCollection“ “PureCollection” Photos: VITEO / The Austrian Furniture Industry “Oyster“ “Liv“Chaiselongue Photos: WITTMANN / The Austrian Furniture Industry Printable images are available at www.moebel.at Dolunay Yerit, advisor to The Austrian Furniture Industry Photo: The Austrian Furniture Industry The Austrian Furniture Industry is part of the Association of the Austrian Wood Industries. It comprises 47 member companies with approximately 6,700 employees. Most of these member companies are medium-sized and privately-owned enterprises. Furniture ‘made in Austria’ stands for traditional craftsmanship and industrial precision. They guarantee the consistently high level of quality of this industry’s products. Inquriy note The Austrian Furniture Industry Mrs. Dolunay Yerit Schwarzenbergplatz 4, 1030 Vienna Phone: +43(0)1/7122601, Fax: +43(0)1/7130309 office@moebel.at, www.moebel.at GeSK agentur für public relations Mrs. Gabriele von Molitor Ziegelstraße 29, 10117 Berlin Phone: +49 (0) 30/21750460 Fax: +49(0)30/21750461 pr@gesk.info, www.gesk.info