In an age where our gaze frequently shifts from the ground beneath our feet to the stars above, the 2024 Maison&Objet trade show, open September 5-9, 2024, introduces its latest theme, “Terra Cosmos”. This theme represents a harmonious blend of cosmic curiosity and terrestrial innovation, a duality that reflects the contemporary consumer's desire for both the extraordinary and the tangible. Building on the success of Maison's' “Tech Eden” theme,from earlier this year, which explored the invigorating alliance between technology and nature, Maison&Objet has partnered with the trend forecasting consultancy Peclers Paris to push the boundaries of imagination and design with “Terra Cosmos”.Brune Ouakrat, Strategic Planner at Peclers Paris, describes the emerging trend as "where the vastness of space mingles with seemingly finite terrestrial territories, and the universal fantasies and earthly materiality collide.”
A New Cosmic Revolution
The allure of space has long captivated the human imagination, a fascination rekindled by recent advancements in space travel and exploration. Just thinking of Elon Musk’s obsession with travelling to Mars. “Terra Cosmos” taps into this renewed interest, offering a fresh perspective that positions us not merely as observers of the cosmos but as active participants. The theme challenges the traditional view of space as an unattainable frontier, suggesting instead that our relationship with the cosmos is deeply intertwined with our responsibilities on Earth. "In this new approach, it is no longer simply a matter of an extraterrestrial elsewhere. We are part of the cosmos, and this position implies responsibility, as well as resilient and virtuous creations and practices," says Ouakrat. This shift in perspective is reflected in the design and creativity showcased at Maison&Objet, where cosmic inspirations are grounded in sustainable and innovative practices.
As we enter an era where space travel is becoming a tangible reality, the implications for design and consumer behavior are profound. “Terra Cosmos” explores how these cosmic aspirations are reshaping our world, from the materials we use to the experiences we seek. The theme invites us to imagine a future where the lines between the earthly and the cosmic blur, leading to new forms of creativity and innovation.
Materializing the Cosmos
One of the most striking aspects of “Terra Cosmos”is its exploration of new materials that evoke both the rugged beauty of lunar landscapes and the ethereal qualities of distant celestial bodies. Maison&Objet will showcase designs that blend the brutalist with the sophisticated, creating a sensory futurism that is both tangible and otherworldly. Charlotte Cazals, Designer and Trend Forecaster at Peclers Paris, describes this trend as "a sensory futurism that dresses interiors in mineral ruggedness and invests them with constellations of satellite objects. The random shapes, roundness, and ovality accentuate the cosmic aspect as much as they soften its contours." This approach is evident in the works of designers like Objects of Common Interest, who experiment with materials such as metal and glass to create pieces that are both futuristic and rooted in earthly reality.
The materials featured in “Terra Cosmos” are not merely decorative; they are transformative, designed to evoke a sense of wonder and to connect us with the broader universe. From iridescent surfaces that mimic the play of light on distant planets to transparent materials that seem to dissolve into the air, the designs on display challenge our perceptions of space and materiality.
Immersive and Multisensory Experiences
“Terra Cosmos” is not confined to the visual realm; it extends into the sensory and experiential domains, particularly in the hospitality and food service industries. Here, the theme takes on a life of its own, offering consumers immersive experiences that transcend the ordinary.One notable example is the work of Danish chef Rasmus Munk, who describes himself as an "alchemist." Munk's Copenhagen restaurant offers a holistic menu that takes guests on a journey from the depths of the ocean to the brilliance of the northern lights, all within an immersive setting that blends the cosmic with the terrestrial. "In this approach, it is no longer enough to simply mobilize the senses; they must be amplified and confounded through both technology and whimsical storytelling," Munk explains, highlighting the transformative potential of “Terra Cosmos” in the culinary world.
Similarly, the El Cosmico hotel in Texas offers an otherworldly escape where guests can reconnect with their senses and observe the celestial vault. This luxury campsite, soon to be equipped with 3D-printed dwellings, embodies the “Terra Cosmos” theme by providing a space that blurs the boundaries between the earthly and the cosmic.
Cosmic Retail Spaces
The retail industry is also embracing the “Terra Cosmos” theme, with spaces that blend futuristic design with digital, connected shopping experiences. Acne Studios and Moncler in Tokyo offer prime examples of how avant-garde aesthetics can create a new form of consumerism, where the physical and virtual worlds intersect. Ouakrat notes, "Avant-garde aesthetics are paving the way for a new form of consumerism," underscoring the influence of “Terra Cosmos” on contemporary retail design. These spaces, inspired by architectural and virtual creations such as those by artist Hugo Fournier, are not just places to shop; they are immersive environments that evoke the boundless possibilities of the cosmos.
The influence of “Terra Cosmos” extends beyond individual stores, impacting the broader retail landscape. As consumers increasingly seek out experiences that are both immersive and meaningful, the integration of cosmic themes into retail design represents a shift towards a more holistic and interconnected approach to consumerism.
Maison&Objet: A Practical and Forward-Thinking Approach
While “Terra Cosmos” is steeped in futuristic fantasy, it is also firmly grounded in practical applications. Maison&Objet's Managing Director, Mélanie Leroy, emphasizes that the theme will be materialized in three key aspects of the exhibition: product curation, events, and the visitor route. "Beyond its forward-looking vision, the Terra Cosmos theme will also be embodied at the show. Visitors will be able to find it materialized in three practical aspects: product curation, events, and the visitor route, which will be guided by the Terra Cosmos symbol," Leroy explains. This approach ensures that the theme is not only visually stunning but also accessible and relevant to industry professionals and consumers alike.
The exhibition will feature curated displays that showcase products aligned with the “Terra Cosmos” theme, offering visitors a tangible connection to the cosmic concepts explored in the show. These displays, designed by curators such as François Delclaux and Elizabeth Leriche, will provide insight into how the theme can be translated into everyday objects and spaces. In addition to the curated displays, Maison&Objet will host a series of events, masterclasses, and roundtable discussions that delve deeper into the “Terra Cosmos” theme. These sessions will provide industry professionals with practical insights and inspiration, helping them to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by this new design paradigm.
Space Age Reimagined
“Terra Cosmos” also pays homage to the Space Age movement of the 1960s, a time when space exploration captured the world's imagination and influenced everything from fashion to architecture. The exhibition revives this spirit of innovation and exploration, but with a contemporary twist. "The Space Age is above all a philosophy, a quest for innovation and a fantasized future," says Alexis Martial and Adrien Caillaudaud, founders of Amca Oval. Their work, inspired by the Space Age, blends retro-futuristic design with modern technology and environmental considerations. This approach exemplifies the "Terra Cosmos" theme's ability to bridge the past and future, creating a design language that is both nostalgic and forward-looking.
New Frontiers in Innovation
The “Terra Cosmos” theme is not just about aesthetics; it also represents a new frontier in innovation. For brands like Lexon, this means venturing beyond traditional boundaries to explore new areas such as sustainability, well-being, and diversity. "For a brand such as Lexon, new frontiers venture far beyond the bounds of technology. They include aspects such as sustainability, well-being, and diversity, where opportunities for innovation are numerous and crucial to meeting the challenges of today's world," explains Frédéric Boutin, Product Director at Lexon. This holistic approach to innovation reflects the broader goals of “Terra Cosmos”, which seeks to create designs that are not only visually striking but also socially and environmentally responsible.
A New Era of Cosmic Design
As Maison&Objet prepares to open its doors to the public, the “Terra Cosmos” theme promises to be a highlight of the exhibition, offering a fresh and inspiring take on the intersection of the cosmic and the terrestrial. By blending futuristic fantasy with earthly reality, "Terra Cosmos" challenges us to rethink our relationship with the universe and the role of design in shaping our future.
From innovative materials and immersive experiences to cosmic retail spaces and a reimagined Space Age, “Terra Cosmos” offers a vision of the future that is both grounded in reality and limitless in its potential. As we look to the stars and beyond, “Terra Cosmos”invites us to explore new possibilities for creativity, innovation, and the re-enchantment of everyday life.
The next edition of Maison&Objet takes place September 5-9, 2024 at the Paris Nord Villepinte Exhibition Centre, Paris Nord, Villepinte, France.
