Visiting Milan – the global capital of design for Salone del Mobile was an exciting experience for HOX. Being able to see the cutting edge of design from the show participants, and the latest trends in stand design and build. We learnt a lot – and look forward to implementing some fresh ideas in the upcoming season!

We were fortunate to visually experience firsthand a very different approach to exhibition designing and executing, compared to our Middle Eastern methods. Particularly so in the use of materials, lighting and treating each exhibitor space as a recreation of an interior. Facades were fully closed on up to 700 SQM spaces, with large gaping windows to peak through. Wall coverings and ceilings fitted out as though a permanent installation with flooring in marbles and mosaic.

In some cases, non-conventional materials were used as backdrops for high-end products; simple chip-board coated in emulsion as flooring or HPV pipes for structural support. Others included lush carpets on walls and back-lit corrugated plastic on suspended ceilings.