The 2009 Milan Furniture Fair showcased an incredible assortment of furnishings, lighting, and housewares from all over the world, ranging from the well-established designers showcased in the main exhibition halls to the young designers and start-up companies exhibiting at Salone Satellite. Although in visiting the modern and contemporary halls of the fair I was disappointed by the lack of green design, it was encouraging to see that this year the fair is focusing on quality. Although the materials and construction of most of the furniture would not be considered sustainable, the intention is that the pieces will last a lifetime. Many of the designs also allowed for modularity, or reconfiguring over time. Read on for our favorite green design finds from the show!
Azuma Makato’s biodegrable moss planter is manufactured from plant-derived polylactic acid, which allows it to eventually fade away and return to nature.
These Green Pocket tiles by Maruja Fuentes are made from recycled materials and are meant to hold potted plants so that it appears they are growing from the wall.
Whirlpool and Elmar teamed up with designers Ludovica + Roberto Palomba to develop this Green Living Kitchen that recycles 60% of the water and heat generated from appliances to fuel other appliances.
Philips’ new lineup of Ledino lamps feature a high light output, 80% energy savings, 20 years of life, are cool to the touch, dimmable, low voltage, and feature a warm 3100 kelvin color.
Shigeru Ban’s 10-Unit System is a set of modular furniture based upon L-shaped units that can form everything from chairs to benches to tables.
Maezm’s Re Love Lighting collection repurposes used furniture by covering it packaging foam, resulting in a cloud-like effect.
LEDS C4’s collection of surface mounted led lights allow a designer to create interesting patterns with energy efficent lighting. They are also unique because they are available in a range of kelvin (color) temperatures.
The Beach Coocon by Pascale De Backer is intended to be easily transported to the beach and then inflated for a relaxing place to unwind. The rope inside is structural to keep the form of the chair, but is also inspired by optical art. Its compact size when deflated and durability make it sustainable and functional.
These “8cork” blocks are designed by designed by Tetsuo Tonouchi. They are colored with natural paints and are made from soft cork for safety.
Be sure to check out our full 2009 Milan Furniture Fair coverage for more great green designs from the show!
+ 2009 Milan Furniture Fair Coverage
+ 2009 Milan Furniture Fair Photo Gallery
