The 11th edition of 3 Days of Design was held from Jun 12 to Jun 14 this year. Compared to the Milan Fair – the most important furniture fair in the industry for many years – the trade fair held in Copenhagen has been quietly making waves for its friendlier mood.
“In recent years, 3 Days of Design has cemented its reputation as a more intimate, understated alternative to the behemoth international festivals. It offers the promise of a tidy, focused event that’s centred squarely on design and connections rather than spectacle,” reported Mellissa Feldman in a commentary on the Business of Home website.
This follows two recent trends in the design world – a desire to build real relationships, as well as more curated events with a connection to location and local design culture, Feldman observed.
For Jefery Kurniadidijaja, co-founder of local furniture company Grafunkt who attended the fair this year, the city itself was part of the attraction. “Copenhagen is a lovely, walk-able city. Organising 3 Days of Design during summer is also wise, as visitors get to maximise the long daylight hours and friendlier weather, especially when they have to walk from one exhibition to another across the city. Things are more casual and relaxed, with most exhibitions and events taking place at brand showrooms, galleries and studios around the city.”
The timelessness of Scandinavian design is also an antidote to the relentless spectacle of the furniture world. “It is a ‘way of living’ rather than a trend – much like contemporary Japanese design,” said Kurniadidijaja. “The appeal lies in its simplicity and minimalism, with a focus on clean lines, timeless aesthetics and functionality, which makes it practical for everyday living while promoting a better lifestyle.”
Here, we highlight 10 new pieces from the fair:
FRITZ HANSEN – MONOLIT CHAIR
