University News Last updated 20 January 2014
A group of future designers will be giving us a sneak peek into which home furnishings and interior designs will be top of our wish list this year.
Interpreting two key trends – ‘Axis’ and ‘Flint’ - students from Birmingham City University will be presenting over 20 new design concepts at this year’s INTERIORS 2014 show, held from this week from 19-22 January in NEC, Birmingham.
The trends, identified by international industry experts Global Color Research™ Mix Publications, will be bought to life over two show stopping room sets; featuring textile, ceramic, lighting, wall and floor covering solutions aimed to give inspiration for future interior designers.
Hannah Malein, Colour and Trend Consultant Manager at Global Color Research™ said; “This is a fantastic opportunity for us to see our trends come to life in multiple materials and applications. The students can always be relied upon for new thinking and impressive outcomes, which is why we’re so excited to see what is revealed later this month.”
BCU student and rising star Chloe Frost has been working exclusively with Brintons Carpets, ahead of the exhibition, using their revolutionary 32 colour ‘High Definition Weave’ technology to construct rugs based upon the ‘Frame’ trend.
Out of the Dark, the charity that trains and educates young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in the art of furniture production, will also be using two BCU students to revamp and upholster a set of vintage chairs. One of the chairs will then be offered as a prize in the INTERIORS 2014 competition.
Now in its sixth year, the Trends project is part of an ongoing partnership with UBM Live, Global Color Research and Textura. The 12-week project draws together the ideas of more than 60 design students; concluding in an inspiring exhibition to interpret colours, textures and design.
Joanna Birch, Head of Corporate Relations at Birmingham City University said; “Challenging our students, staff and partners to come up with brand new concepts which are fresh, engaging and new stretches the project and generates some truly innovative content. It’s this innovation which drives us and our partners to push the boundaries and is one of the most motivating elements of this showcase.
“This year the University will also feature a programme of lightning talks, delivered by students within the INTERIORS show seminar programme, specifically addressing the challenges of interiors and product design for the future.”
The annual showcase of new student talent has launched a number of award-winning designers in previous years, including Zoe Watson, who won the Textura Innovation Design Award at INTERIORS 2013 and Jasmine Gilhooly who launched her own fashion range J D’Cruz, specialising in bespoke handbags.