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COVER STORY FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES EUROPE
at Hettich, tells that in terms of design, the whole of
the world – apart from the US – looks to Italy where,
every two years, EuroCucina leads the way. “With
Italy still going through difficult economic times,
this year's EuroCucina will focus more on sellable
kitchen products rather than mere show objects.
Expectations on design are set to grow, also in
relation to fittings in the kitchen.
Hüther is of the similar opinion. He says, “In times of
uncertain financial markets, people rather invest
their money in reliable material assets including
modern kitchens”. German kitchens are popular
and demanded all over the world. “The modern
fitted kitchen, invented in Germany more than 60
years ago, has proven successful and has
continuously been developed further. The
combination of international design and style,
highly efficient production technology and
logistics as well as best workmanship and product
quality results in attractive, reliable and durable
products. This quality is gaining ground. It can be
appraised at trade fairs around the globe and in the
showrooms of our manufacturers - and in the
kitchens of many satisfied customers everywhere
in the world”, Huther adds.
Trend Forecasts
Speaking about the trends reigning this season,
Steib says that focus is currently on experimenting
with vertical lines, i.e. high drawer fronts. Extrawide
front panels will also continue to set the tone
in the upcoming season. He adds, “In terms of
materials, far greater use is expected to be made of
glass and stone, coupled with a used-look and
surfaces that give the impression of being very
natural.”
He forecasts, “Alongside handle-free fronts, highly
characteristic handles will underscore kitchen
styling towards one of the major four trends of New
Modern (unadorned and sleek), Deluxe (opulent
with shiny effects), Organic (natural and with
dynamic lines) or Folk (retro style).”
Hüther too believes natural looks and vertical lines
would rule the season. “The trend for new kitchens is
towards natural colours, especially in combination
with structured surfaces. The rough-saw, almost
natural wooden surface for panels for instance is
coming on strong,” says he adding that lacquered or
Furniture & Accessories Europe 2012
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