Held at the International Convention and Exhibition Centre in Sydney from 20 to 22 October 2022, Design Show Australia presented more than 100 exhibitor stands and a full program of speaker sessions across three stages. Here, we pick some of our stand highlights from the 2022 Sydney show.
Snelling
This multidisciplinary lighting, furniture and objects studio based in New Zealand presented an intimate “cave” of their creations. Shaped by Bec Snelling’s formal training as a fine artist and her years of experience as a designer, the sculptural yet functional pieces literally glistened and shined on the stand. The result was a space that felt like an art gallery rather than an exhibition stand.
Design Show Australia at the International Convention and Exhibition Centre Sydney.
Image: Courtesy of National Media
Nau
At the Nau lounge from Cult Design, Adam Goodrum’s new Lincoln sofa was on show alongside the new Nest Monochrome tables and Furl coat stand. Also on show were the Nami Dining Table and Sia Chair by Tom Fereday and the the Jolly pendant light by Kate Stokes. Styled among an understated backdrop of layered sheer curtains from Kvadrat Maharam, the stand felt like a beautiful residential setting.
Sugi
While tiny, this stand had big impact. Lined with Sugi’s Japanese cedar in different finishes, it gave the impression of a peaceful Japanese cabin – a huge feat in a busy trade show. The simple, authentic design by New Zealand-based Scott Fitzsimons Studio was a favourite of mine, and really captured the honest material, which is available from Japanese Timber Australia. And it smelled good too!
Australia’s Next Top Designer
Shining a spotlight on emerging designers and makers, Australia’s Next Top Designer’s Showcase presented an array of original and exciting products and concepts shaping the future of design. Some favourites of mine were the Channel Lamp by Anonymous Design Haus, the glass sculptures by Sasa Barnes, and the Shaved Timber vessels by Bolaji Teniola. The next gen of designers are certainly ones to watch.
Design Show Australia at the International Convention and Exhibition Centre Sydney.
Image: Courtesy of National Media
Artichoke Lounge
What type of proud editor would I be if I didn’t mention our very own Artichoke Lounge? Designed by Lisa at Freehand Design Studio with product from the Nau collection from Cult Design, the stand presented the perfect opportunity to lounge around, get some work done and pick up a free magazine in the process – all while being surrounded by Adam Goodrum’s Chameleon table, his Don, Molloy, Softply and Mega Tulip chairs and Tom Fereday’s Sia chair.
