'2024 has been an exciting year, filled with successes and inspiring challenges,' Davis and Bendis Ronchetti of the rug company Illulian say. Together we look back on the past year and their exciting plans for 2025. One of which was their participation at the Maison&Objet fair in Paris. 'Maison&Objet is always an exceptional showcase and a key crossroads for international design trends.'
Davis and Bendis Ronchetti.
As we've just entered the new year, how do you look back on 2024?
'2024 has been an exciting year, filled with successes and inspiring challenges. We worked diligently to strengthen our international presence, particularly in the United States and the Middle East, by focusing on local projects and collaborating with designers and architects from these regions. Now, we look ahead with determination, ready to seize the opportunities the new year will bring.'
What was the biggest challenge for the industry in 2024?
'The greatest challenge was maintaining a genuine connection with clients in an increasingly global and competitive market. Balancing craftsmanship, innovation, and creativity is essential to meet the expectations of a more discerning and informed audience. Today, our clients seek fresh, innovative products, often customised to their unique needs. This requires meticulous attention and a deep understanding of individual preferences and expectations.'
What were some of the trends in carpets this year, and do you expect them to continue into the new year? Or are you seeing new trends developing?
'This year, trends revolved around a blend of minimalism and bold decorative elements. Rugs with combined, innovative textures, irregular sculptural shapes, earthy and natural colour palettes, and unexpected, minimalist yet customisable designs have been particularly popular.
The coming year will build on this foundation, with designs inspired by nature and distant cultures. However, the focus on the quality of raw materials, craftsmanship, and innovation in production remains a cornerstone of these evolving trends, as well as the need to create products that combine beauty with functionality, capable of warming the environment and making it more familiar and cosier.'
Symi by Ferruccio Laviani.
You were at Maison&Objet this January. How was the fair?
'Maison&Objet is always an exceptional showcase and a key crossroads for international design trends. This year, the fair stood out for its vibrant, dynamic atmosphere and the high quality of the innovations on display. For us, it was a fantastic opportunity to connect with partners, designers, and clients from around the world.
Now that the event has concluded, we can confidently say it was a valuable experience, offering fresh insights and opportunities to be exploited in the coming months.'
What did you showcase there?
'We unveiled the latest creations from our Essential (Dune and Stilo rugs) and Palace Collections (Balthazar Degradé), alongside the most exclusive pieces from our Limited Edition, crafted in collaboration with designers Elena Cutolo and Daniel Germani. A standout piece was Maru by Naoto Fukasawa, which is also featured in the Things in Themselves exhibition at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Each piece is unique: the simple Dune and Stilo enhance the workmanship of the product, Balthazar Degradé evokes Renaissance charm.
Elena's designs revisit memories of adolescence and the importance of the home; Daniel's rugs incorporate Maison Février's exquisite feathers in a nature-inspired design; and Naoto's work explores the beauty of minimalism. Together, these creations embody our company's soul, reflecting our modern approach, open vision, distinctive style, and commitment to excellence.'
Turan design by Elena Cutolo.
Any other exciting plans for 2025 you can share?
'Our next major event will be Milan Design Week, where we're planning exciting collaborations with renowned international designers. For now, we're focusing on this milestone—stay tuned for more surprises.'
More information:
Illulian Srl.
[email protected]
www.illulian.com
Italy