IFFT/Interior Lifestyle Living 2021 Japan to host over 300 exhibitors

A wide range of exhibitors and their products for the entire living space, such as furniture manufacturers from all over Japan, textiles, tableware, design sundries, daily necessities, ethical products and construction materials, will gather under one roof, the organiser Messe Frankfurt said in a media release.

Each edition of IFFT/Interior Lifestyle Living sees the introduction of a special showcase dedicated to a unique theme. For 2021, Keiji Ashizawa, the prominent Japanese architect, has joined as a director. Under the name of ‘+Talents’, the showcase will see young and gifted designers and architects display their innovative and unique prototypes. The area will connect designers with manufacturers and help industry players discover the future trends that will shape the interior industry in the post-pandemic world.

For added exposure, Ashizawa will organise special tours for visiting architects and designers covering the ‘+Talents’ zone as well as the equally anticipated ‘Creative Resource’ and ‘Home’ zones. The guided tours will help participants gain a better understanding of the latest trends in the interior design industry.

Japan has been moving towards a sustainable society since 2015 when the United Nations adopted its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The concept of the SDGs has gradually spread to the Japanese interior design industry. In response to this trend, 17 exhibitors at the newly established ‘Ethical’ zone will showcase their products focused on environment protection, up-cycling, fair trade, organic living and more. They aim to contribute to efforts to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and a comfortable life, the release said.

Additionally, Lifestyle Salon is a series of seminars presented by experts discussing the latest developments in the fields of interior and workplace design. Laura Kopilow of the commerce department of the embassy of Finland will explain how Finland's efforts on environmental issues and sustainability can be utilised in business. The environmental business project manager of Itochu Corporation, Takuya Kobayashi, will deliver a presentation on the same issues.

Meanwhile, the winner of the ‘Young Designer Award’ will be chosen from the Next and Talent zones. The awardee will be chosen by representatives of Ambiente – the leading international trade fair for consumer goods in Frankfurt, Germany. The award promotes the next generation of interior designers. The winner will have the opportunity to exhibit at Ambiente in 2022.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KD)