TMD 402H - Globalization in the Textile and Apparel Complex

Europe as a Design Source

Meredith Russo

Summary by Emily Tobin

Europe has long been a source of design inspiration for interiors. Meredith focused on three areas of Europe design: Italian, French, and English.

Italian design focuses on individualism, imagination and creativity. Milan was and still is the center for design and production. The modern movement brought the bean bag chair that is so popular in the United States today. Other products from the modern movement were the inflatable armchair and the use of bright colors and patterns. This movement was so wonderful for consumers because functional and comfortable furniture could be found at a low price.

French Art Deco design includes stepped forms, rounded corners, triple striped decorative elements along with black and chrome trim. The colors common to Art Deco are pastels and whites found in buildings such as the Rockefeller Center and Radio City Music Hall, and historical districts like the Miami's South Beach.

English design focuses on cabinetry and joinery. The "Hi-Tech" movement affected English design by introducing steel scaffolding, office furniture and factory flooring into homes. This new trend was a marketing phenomenon in England.

To conclude, Meredith spoke about different furniture shows. She made predictions for upcoming European influences including bright colors (red, sage) and fabrics (printed velvets and crocodile prints).

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