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Flexform says yes, to beauty – but never for the sake of it

19 July, 2018 | Giuliano Galimberti from Italian design furniture design stalwart Flexform on laid-back elegance, lasting style and the trends that emerged from the Milan design show Salone del Mobile 2018.

Flexform Good Design concept

Flexform debuted its new collection at the recent Salone del Mobile furniture fair in Milan. Running through this collection was the concept of Good Design – best illustrated by pieces such as the new Campiello sofa, Leda armchairs and Ascanio occasional tables. The Good Design school of thought has its origins in the US during the 1940s and ’50s, but its influence has spread far and wide – it embodies myriad inherent qualities like innovation, functionality and, of course, artistic beauty – although never beauty merely for beauty’s sake. Good Design is honest and made to last because it is ultimately meant to improve daily life.

While at the fair, we came across certain design directions that cropped up repeatedly. The prolific use of marble and stone, for instance, signals that these surfaces are still very strong. Likewise the bold mix of patterns was noticeable across the exhibition, as was the use of several shades of powder blue.

As always, our interpretation is with long-lasting style in mind, so while marble is popular right now, Flexform has translated it in a way that won’t date – for example, our Ascanio occasional tables from the new collection combine very pure lines and shapes with the material for an enduring aesthetic.

Les Métiers d’Art Aerostiers Flexform Good Design concept

Our new range from the Mood Collection – created as a channel for pieces with traditional shapes but a modern twist – is inspired by modernism and the far-reaching stylistic transformation it sparked in the world of design. The architecturally influenced and rational geometric approach of this school of thinking is coupled with our quest to incorporate just the right materials: quality timbers, luxurious marbles and lacquer finishes in sophisticated colours. As the style ranges from retro to Art Deco, there is a more formal decorative imprint along with the introduction of geometric shapes.

As befits a collection that will furnish public as well as private spaces, each piece works in perfect sync with the next, creating an ecosystem of objects – a coherent design journey that has the potential to adorn a single room or an entire building. Responding to an increasing demand for classically elegant furniture, this year’s ‘Mood’ can transform any space into an intimate place of reflection and relaxation.

Giuliano Galimberti Flexform Good Design concept chairs

Interaction with different countries and cultures has no doubt enriched us but our production philosophy has not been influenced by market trends. The kind of Italian style that Flexform represents is light and measured – it’s aimed at discerning customers who would rather live in a beautiful environment than show it off. Designer and architect Antonio Citterio, a longtime associate of the brand, says what sets Flexform apart is the fact that ‘every product is easily recognisable, conceived for everyday use and always easy to use’.

With this in mind, new ranges by the brand always keep abreast of industry trends, but at the same time place longevity and accessibility above staying current at the cost of these principles. With a heritage of half a century of design excellence and craftsmanship, the company has thrived for so long as a result of consistently adhering to its core values of quality, comfort and coherent design.

Get more décor inspiration in the Leisure and Lifestyle section.

This article originally appeared in Issue 40 of Private Edition.

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