25.01.2012 Paperworld Trends 2012/13: the new season begins with ‘Bright’, ‘Dark’ and ‘Soft’

Designers bora.herke.palmisano use future-oriented ideas to create three trend worlds

Colour is the buzzword for the 2012/13 season. Rich, bright shades set fresh accents and designers draw on all colours of the rainbow. A new sense of optimism is the trigger for this colourful trend, which symbolises boldness and a positive attitude. Trends provide a mirror image of society. They generate new impulses and give inspiration to both retailers and customers.

Designers bora.herke.palmisano have analysed the latest tendencies in the fields of fashion, design and architecture and, on this basis, created the Paperworld Trends for 2012/13. “The trends reflect the needs and inclinations that drive us at given times, and call for new solutions and approaches to design”, says Claudia Herke of bora.herke.palmisano discussing the genesis of the three Paperworld Trends. ‘Bright’, ‘Dark’ and ‘Soft’ are the names given to the three trend worlds that are set to dominate the coming season.

‘Bright’ – focusing on colour
‘Bright’ stands for an optimistic and self-confident attitude to life. The trend is extremely modern – bright and expressive colours are com­bined with a minimalist design language to create a dramatic look. Monochrome and velvety matt surfaces mean that fresh shades, such as mandarin and wasabi green, are shown to their best advantage. The reduced design recedes behind the colours and draws attention to the rich, brilliant tones. However, practical product benefits are also important. Thus, office articles and furniture finished in intense colours are distinguished by their modern commercial character and their well thought-out functionality. High-grade plastics, Plexiglas and rubber characterise high-end design for everyday life. Additionally, natural materials, such as leather and textiles give the style an exclusive touch. Fascinating colour gradients catch the eye and supplement distinct patterns, such as stripes, halftone dots or graphic and emphatic designs.

‘Dark’ – used-look meets recycling
‘Dark’ stands for a relaxed and cool attitude to life. Young and rebellious, this trend is opposed to classic role allocations. There are no superfluous elements in the rough and informal ‘casual’ look. The focus is on durability and functionality. Thus, wear and used looks are deliberately employed and combined with well-groomed and high-quality aspects. Expression is also given to ecological expecta­tions via recycled materials. The series of dark colours, from granite grey and marine blue to khaki, represent the easy-going side of this avant-garde style. The overall appearance is dominated by a deep night black, which is used with either a matt or lustrous finish and con­trasted with rusty red accents. The materials, including canvas, smooth leather and suede, have a modern, contemporary and casual impact. The surfaces have structures, reliefs and textures. Patterns, such as typographies, graphs and typefaces with gradients, stamping techniques and linear doodles, are reminiscent of technical drawings and creative processes.

‘Soft’ – gentle simplicity creates tranquillity
‘Soft’ stands for a simple, aesthetic and sensuous attitude to life. Purity and tranquillity are the dominant features of this quiet and reduced style, the emphasis of which is on fine materials and feel-good surfaces. The demand for clarity and concentration is reflected by the timeless design. Special significance is attached to intelligent products that are long-lived, functional and simple. Lightness and purity are reflected by chalky, soft and cloudy nuances, as well as creamy shades dominated by light blue, peach, light grey and brilliant white – plus acid pink as the counterpoint. Familiar materials are given new functions and placed in new contexts. Meticulously crafted wood, matt or velvety surfaces and gossamer paper is combined with glass, vellum or handmade paper. Reliefs, em­bossing, origami techniques and torn edges give the lightweight materials depth and volume. Patterns, such as fine lines and hatching, blurred and fuzzy motifs, take second place to the overall shape.

Daily during Paperworld – The World of Office and Stationery –
(28 to 31 January 2012), the designers from bora.herke.palmisano will give guided tours of the Trend Show in Hall 6.1, Stand C90, at 10.30 and 15.00 hrs and, in a subsequent lecture, explain the effect and implementation of the trend themes. The Trend Brochure with the most important colours, materials and patterns will also be available free of charge at the Trend Show information stand.