COLOGNE, Germany – The imm cologne trade fair is poised to be the key meeting place for the international furnishing scene in 2024. With its central theme of "Connecting Communities," the event invites visitors to come and discover the new collections and product innovations, discuss trends, make new contacts and maintain existing relationships.

Set for January 14-18, 2024, imm cologne will return to its usual, long-established date in the calendar. With new, innovative formats, the trade fair aims to focus even more strongly on the rich variety of lifestyles and interiors. 

Flexibility redefined

Sustainable living continues to be a central theme at imm cologne. The interior design industry is putting greater focus on product cycles in order to optimize the use and lifespan of furniture. “Circular-ready” tables, chairs and sofas made from repurposed offcuts or bio-based materials are being launched on the market in increasing numbers. 

Bathrooms are being reimagined as private spas, kitchens are evolving into indoor gardens, and gardens are becoming extended “green living rooms”. imm cologne 2024 is set to highlight a sea change in living styles with traditional boundaries between living areas disappearing and homes being transformed into versatile spaces that function not only as places to live but also as places to work. 

Inspiration from the natural world

Topics like sustainability, recyclability and durability aren’t only affecting how people choose furniture, they’re also influencing its color and shape. Natural shades such as algae or earth tones are currently on trend. Integrating natural or nature-inspired materials and making generous use of green plants lends interiors a refreshing natural atmosphere. This approach is rounded off by soft, organically inspired shapes in the design of furniture.

In times of uncertainty, the desire for a safe and cozy refuge from the world intensifies. Calm design and surfaces that are pleasant to touch help to create a relaxed living environment. The current interiors trend favors fabrics, patterns and textures that appeal to the senses as well as materials like wood, leather and natural stone, which are being used more and more in furniture finishes. This design approach creates spaces that radiate warmth and feelings of grounding and connection.

In contrast to understated minimalism and natural-looking earth tones, bold colors are expected to set a countertrend at imm cologne 2024. The idea is to welcome a cheerful and lively ambience into the home. Colors like red, yellow and green are a deliberate departure from the muted color palette of many new interior design collections. Armchairs and sofas in eye-catching shades are particularly striking and create individual highlights. This joyful design trend is permeating all areas of the home, spreading a positive atmosphere.

Back to basics

Contemporary attitudes to life are translating into a desire for simplicity, which is reflected in the trend towards more minimalist furnishings. The principle of omission by design is increasingly being applied to new furniture. Thanks to their compact dimensions and simple shapes, graceful and minimalist chairs, tables and sofas suit any space. Minimalist design stands for timeless elegance as well as restraint. One positive side effect of this approach is that it saves resources without compromising on quality.

Interior design enthusiasts will have the opportunity to discover these trends and more in Cologne this coming January. imm cologne 2024 marks a milestone in the event’s continuing journey towards a reinvented trade fair. As well as offering insights into new products and innovations in the world of interior design, imm cologne 2024 will provide an updated trade fair experience that reflects the industry’s latest developments and needs.

Further information: https://www.imm-cologne.com/trade-fair/imm-cologne/industry-trade-fairs/