Denfair echoed the resounding consensus that our community of interior designers and artisans is not only rising, but gaining strength in Melbourne and wider Australia. The annual design exhibition now in its 5th year showcased where Melbourne and Australian design is currently positioned locally and internationally. Denfair’s increasingly interesting output is testament to homegrown design becoming more accessible, sophisticated and worthy of our attention.
Alongside the winners of best stand and best products who were singularly impressive, we couldn’t help but make our own list of products that caught our attention.
From their Fitzroy base, Lost Profile Studio produced the stunning architecturally inspired Colossal Wall Sconce.
The groovy Puffalo modular range by Ross Didier was a standout at Denfair and proves the modern, laid-back sofa style continues its reign. A subtle nod to the seventies, the sofa works in both a small apartment or large home.
It’s safe to say Zaha Hadid Design never disappoints. The homeware range caught the attention of all design buffs, winning Best International Product for the modular ‘Cell’ candleholder.
The Studio Desk by Bene is everything it purports to be: Functional. Smart. Solid. It also has the flexibility to make-it-your-own and can be configured depending on the user’s style and space. Sold!
Last but not least, the Otway armchair for Kett Studio by Justin Hutchinson (Cosh Living) is a pleasing palette cleanser. Soft timber paired with soft edges, the design marries Scandinavian and Australian style.
The official judges for this year were Chris Connell (known for institutions Café e Cucina, Il Bacaro, Mr Wolf and Dukes), Suzy Annetta (Co-Founder and Editor-in-chief of Design Anthology magazine) and Rob Mills (Rob Mills Architecture) who selected the following winners. Here we go...
Best Small Stand - Coco Flip
Arched doorways and burnt orange walls gave presence to Coco Flip’s new ‘Honey’ collection. Handmade and designed in Melbourne by local artisans; namely Charles Sandford and Amanda Dziedzic, the design mirrors the soft curves of a honey dipper emitting an equally soft honey glow.
Best Medium Stand - The Raconteur
Upside down flowers delicately hanging from sheer swathes of fabric in what felt like a floating tent – original, dreamy, beautiful! Need we say more? Using scents from native Australian botanicals, whether that be ‘Bondi II’, ‘Red Centre’ or ‘Byron Bay’ each handmade candle emits a scent that is of country.
Best Large Stand - OAK by American Hardwood Export Council
The importance and brilliance of wood as a material was emphasized by a space that was balanced and thoughtful.
Best Australian Product - Sway Lamp, Made by Pen
We love the originality and the fact it seems to communicate a unique, light-hearted Australianness.
Find the full list of winners here.
Winner or not, the success of Denfair 2019 shows our small yet punchy design community has a lot to say. Creatives of all types are showing a unique approach to thought and process, making Denfair an annual event not to be missed.