What Do The 1970’s, Art Nouveau And Reactive Glazes Have In Common?

Very little, I hear you shout, however, our Explorer Philip is out and about in London and these are some of the important design and style trends that he has noticed.

Our recent Maison et Objet September 2020 trade fair report and our Atlanta Market August 2020 trade fair report both noted an increase in 1970s influences as interior design trends move from mid-century to mid/late century. Many European brands such as B&B Italia, Cassina and Lignet Roset are all re-releasing their classic upholstery designs from the 1970s. In London, B&B Italia released a new concept in their St Georges court Store – It’s called The Design Anthology and includes complimentary lighting Flos and Louis Poulson. The big feature in the store was the Mario Bellini classic Camalodonia sofa from the 1970s.

Camalodonia sofa at B&B Italia- London. Image By Our Explorer Philip

We have been talking about regression from Art Deco to more romantic Art Nouveau styles over the last few months and Granaio restaurant in Picadilly circus is an excellent example of how this overly decorative aesthetic is being reinterpreted into a more pared-back aesthetic. 

Granaio London. Image By Our Explorer Philip

Artisanal elements were beautifully shown in a new retail find– Grace and Thorn in Hackney road. The emerging style leadership of its owner Nik Southern was evident in not only the foliage but also the stunning (yes 1970’s inspired) Ceramics. All of which has a definite “feel of the hand”. 

Grace & Thorn London. Image By Our Explorer Philip

These are just a few of the latest and most important style trends to watch in 2021. If you’d like to see the best of what we found in London, take a look at our London Explorer Report Preview Here.