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Our Pick: Unveiling Design’s Finest at ICFF + WantedDesign 

Our Pick: Unveiling Design’s Finest at ICFF + WantedDesign 
BioBench. Courtesy of Model No.

The International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) and WantedDesign Manhattan dazzled attendees with a diverse range of extraordinary designs, fostering creative exchange and propelling the future of design forward. 

May 21-23—The International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) and WantedDesign Manhattan, held during NYCxDESIGN, concluded with great success at the Javits Center in New York City. The design community experienced an extraordinary gathering of exhibitors, architects, designers, manufacturers and buyers. The event showcased a diverse range of furniture, lighting, textiles, flooring, kitchen and bath products, wallcoverings and accessories for various environments.

Under the joint leadership of the International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) and WantedDesign, the Javits Convention Center became a hub of creative exchange. This year’s program co-directors, Odile Hainaut and Claire Pijoulat of WantedDesign, injected the exhibition with a fresh perspective. Their vision emphasized sharing best practices and nurturing the next generation of designers, setting the stage for an exciting future in design.

During our visit to ICFF + WantedDesign, our content manager, Elena Nappi, immersed herself in the inspiring displays and discovered noteworthy companies. In the following sections, we will delve into the remarkable companies that captivated Elena’s attention at this impressive trade fair.

Model No. Unveils Plant-Based, 3D Printed Collection at ICFF

California-based sustainable furniture brand Model No. unveiled a collection of plant-based, 3D-printed furniture at the event. The brand showcased a versatile range of furnishings that were 3D printed on demand using regenerative materials and plant-based resins, significantly reducing waste compared to traditional manufacturing methods.

The collection featured several seating elements, a table set, and a modular BioBench system. Notable introductions included the Bolster Chair and the Esker Chair, both sleek and biodegradable. The popular Adirondack Chair and Ottoman were also presented in new colorways. Additionally, the innovative BioBench system, designed for commercial and hospitality clients, integrated planters and slatted seating made from sustainable hardwoods.

One highlight of the exhibition was the Gather Table + Stools, designed by PROWL studio. Inspired by ash trees, the fluted base of the table embraced the layered texture of 3D printing, while the hand-finished hardwood canopy formed a natural and inviting gathering space.

Solis Adirondack Chairs + Solis Coffee Table. Courtesy of Model No.
Gather Table + Stools by Prowl Studios with Amphora Series Hive Pendant Light. Courtesy of Model No.
Esker Chair. Courtesy of Model No.
Bolster Chair. Courtesy of Model No.

Model No. CEO, Phillip Raub, emphasized their commitment to delivering recyclable and biodegradable products by employing their industry-leading 3D printing technologies and introducing a new 100% biodegradable material. The company’s progressive approach combined advanced materials science with on-demand manufacturing, generating zero waste and carbon emissions. All designs were fully circular and capable of biodegrading within a year under the right conditions.

During the event, Raub participated in a panel discussion titled “From Waste to Wanted” to discuss Model No.’s sustainable approach. With its innovative designs and zero environmental impact, Model No. aimed to set a new standard for sustainability in the furniture industry. Soon, the brand will exhibit its new Desk System at NeoCon: June 12 – 14.

LACAVA: Elevating Bathroom Design with Italian-American Craftsmanship

LACAVA, a distinguished American brand with Italian origins, showcased its commitment to exquisite bathroom design. The company unveiled four captivating collections, namely Brio, Flutti, Metallo, and Zoom, each representing a unique blend of style, functionality and enduring quality.

Leading the lineup, the Brio collection features meticulously crafted vanities with American solid walnut and American solid white oak frames, available in standard, premium, and luxury finishes. These vanities offer ample storage space with a bottom shelf, adding a stylish touch to any bathroom décor.

Another noteworthy collection, Flutti, comprises wall-mounted vanities with an under-counter sink and a distinctive fluted design. Handmade in the USA, these vanities combine modernity and sophistication, providing a seamless and clean look to the bathroom. The Flutti collection, in addition to its presence at the ICFF event, received accolades as a finalist at the NYC x Design Awards 2023. These wall-mount vanities, available in marble, solid surface, or quartz countertops, offer a range of colors and materials to suit individual preferences. 

Brio room. Courtesy of LACAVA.
Flutti. Courtesy of LACAVA.
Flutti, double. Courtesy of LACAVA.

The Metallo collection showcases floor-standing metal vanities available in brushed stainless steel, matte black, matte white, and powder-coated brass finishes. These sleek and sturdy vanities are designed for vessel sinks, adding a touch of contemporary elegance to any bathroom.

Lastly, the Zoom collection introduces cutting-edge bathroom fixtures including touch-free electronic hand dryers, electronic faucets, and touch-free electronic soap dispensers. These fixtures incorporate integrated infrared sensors, ensuring convenience and hygiene in the bathroom space.

Headquartered in Chicago, LACAVA combines Italian craftsmanship with American innovation to enrich homes and public facilities with ingenious bathroom collections. LACAVA sets the standard for redefining bathroom design, elevating everyday experiences with its exceptional range of products. From the timeless elegance of Brio and Flutti to the contemporary flair of Metallo and the cutting-edge technology of the Zoom collection, LACAVA continues to shape future market trends and inspire bathroom design worldwide.

Metallo. Courtesy of LACAVA.
Zoom. Courtesy of LACAVA.

Rosie Li Studio Shines Bright with Exquisite Lighting Designs: A Fusion of Artistry and Customization

Rosie Li Studio, a renowned lighting design studio based in Brooklyn, NY, unveiled its new additions to the Pilar Collection in collaboration with the Brooklyn-based ceramic studio MONDAYS, as well as new renditions from the Laurel and Ginkgo series. Known for their passion for craftsmanship and innovative designs, Rosie Li pushed the boundaries of lighting design, seamlessly blending artistry and functionality.

At ICFF, Rosie Li showcased a mesmerizing range of lighting fixtures, with one standout being the Pilar series. Hand-made ceramics in stacked configurations, these pieces, produced in collaboration with MONDAYS, exemplified the delicate balance between organic beauty and refined craftsmanship.

The collection introduced new custom finishes, as well as the Pilar Mixed Column Round pendant, highlighting the studio’s dedication to versatility and personalization. With various customizable options available, clients could tailor their Pilar fixtures to suit their unique tastes and design aesthetics, ensuring a truly personalized lighting experience.

Another highlight of the collection was the Laurel Garland 12 Flushmount. Inspired by the graceful arcs of growing branches, this flush-mount fixture exuded an ethereal quality that evoked a sense of natural elegance. Its delicate balance of form and light promised to captivate viewers with its stunning simplicity.

Drawing inspiration from the intricacies of nature, the Fluted Ginkgo Totem chandelier featured hand-formed fluted Ginkgo leaves with gem-like faceted glass diffusers, polished to stunning clarity. The interplay of light and leaves created an enchanting ambiance, making it a perfect centerpiece for stairwell installations.

These new additions underscored Rosie Li Studio’s commitment to providing unique and exceptional lighting experiences. Rosie Li, founder and principal designer of the studio, expressed delight in presenting their latest lighting designs at ICFF, emphasizing their dedication to pushing the boundaries of lighting design while allowing clients unparalleled artistic expression.

Courtesy of Rosie Li Studio.
Courtesy of Rosie Li Studio.

Affreschi & Affreschi: Elevating Wallpapers with Artistry and Innovation

Affreschi & Affreschi, a renowned wallpaper company, participated in the event. The Italian manufacturer displayed its handcrafted textured wallpaper, showcasing exclusive designs such as the fluidity of the innerLine collection, Vincenzo D’Alba’s unique abstract traits, the geometries of the Recon series, and the romantic bon-ton flavor of the Tailor collection by STUDIO MILO. These wallpapers, characterized by strong personalities, soft shadows, and 3D effects, were reproduced on a natural surface reminiscent of ancient frescoes but with a contemporary touch.

During the ICFF show, Affreschi & Affreschi achieved significant recognition by winning the prize for the best wallcovering in the wallcoverings category.

The company’s founder, Dario Roselli, shared his journey, starting in 1997 when he designed and sold Lecce stone decorations for exteriors. Roselli discovered the immense demand for Italian craftsmanship while collaborating with architects and builders worldwide. Inspired by his customers’ desire for frescoes in their villas, he founded Affreschi & Affreschi.

In 1998, Roselli partnered with artist Francesco Palma to establish FRADA, a private art studio specializing in hand-painted frescoes for luxury projects. Together, they adorned residences in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar.

On September 20, 2004, Affreschi & Affreschi ventured into reproducing digital images directly onto plaster. Despite the absence of technology capable of printing on such a surface, they persisted. With the help of Pino Friuli, an expert, Roselli discovered a groundbreaking method for digital printing. Roselli and his partner, Denis Beltrando, secured their first dealer in Pinerolo.

Today, Affreschi & Affreschi’s roll-up intonaco stands as a unique and globally recognized product. The company’s inception stemmed from intuition, dreams, and unwavering enthusiasm, aiming to bring to life the energy of the universe through its creations.

Contemporary interior with sofa, wall panel and decor. 3d render illustration mockup. Courtesy of Affreschi & Affreschi.
Courtesy of Affreschi & Affreschi.
Modern arches interior composition with armchair and decor. 3d render illustration mock up. Courtesy of Affreschi & Affreschi.
Courtesy of Affreschi & Affreschi.
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