17
SEQUELS SPELL SUCCESS
Another parallel with show business is the challenge that our
industry faces to find and tell truly new stories. They are
few and far between in Hollywood, and the new stories are
often not the commercial hits: it is the sequels that promise
an instant hit of a tried-and-trusted formula with recognisable
stars and an easy to digest experience.
Some of the strongest brands ensure success through their
enduring narratives and design direction. Meridiani’s longstanding design director Andrea Parisio; Living Divani and
Porro’s inimitable Piero Lissoni; Flexform’s Roberto Lazzeroni;
Moooi’s Marcel Wanders: their firm hand was visible in each of
the stands. Ceccotti created a world firmly based in the past, a
Downton-esque stately home that reflected their pedigree.
At Porro I particularly enjoyed the architectural lines of Gallery,
a cabinet that slides apart vertically to reveal a lit bar that can
be dimmed down through the colour temperature spectrum.
Though a new piece, it is unmistakably Porro.
Meridiani impressed through their strong stand that
transported us to a villa somewhere in the Mediterranean. I
loved their armchair and bed derived from the Keaton family.
Moooi’s theatrical tendencies were displayed to full effect
in their huge stand, complete with heavy velvet curtains and
central sculptural configuration of Chesterfield sofas. But a
closer look revealed more of the quirky but functional furniture
that has made Moooi world-famous.
Clockwise: Moooi exhibition inspired by their dramatic character; Porro Gallery
bar unit; Ceccotti displaying their exceptional finishes with deep rich tones;
Meridiani stand featuring Plinto table and Kita dining chair;