As 2024 winds to a close, we are reflecting on an inspiring year in furniture and interior design, with a landscape shaped by a thoughtful balance of grounded nature and bold innovation.
Decor + Design & The Australian International Furniture Fair (AIFF) took place in Melbourne in July 2024; a notable highlight on the Australian design calendar, with 200+ exhibitors championing craftsmanship, and beautiful design. We can’t wait for the next edition from 16 – 18 July 2025 at Melbourne Exhibition Centre.
From earthy finishes to sculptural silhouettes and outstanding designers, we’ve rounded up our Top 5 in furniture for 2024.
#1 Sculptural Simplicity: GlobeWest
Designed for designers, GlobeWest is an Australian owned and run company with offices and showrooms based in multiple cities across Australia. They create beautiful designs that transform the everyday, forming connection, comfort and joy in Australian homes and businesses.
GlobeWest’s aesthetic (pictured in top image and below) has a sculptural simplicity that blends form and function with curvaceous lines and plush upholstery, perfectly embodying the trend of sculptural, artful furniture that transforms everyday spaces.
#2 Statement Craft in Lighting: Koskela’s Yuta Badayala Pendants
Koskela is a leader in sustainable furniture design and Australian manufacturing. Their collaborations with indigenous craftspeople bring the beauty of ancient practices to modern interiors.
This hand woven pendant light is part of a collection of Yuta Badayala lights developed by Koskela in collaboration with the Yolngu weavers from Elcho Island Arts.
The collaboration, a first of its kind, uses traditional weaving techniques used in Arnhem Land to create a truly beautiful and contemporary design product. As each individual artist has complete freedom to interpret the form, each light is a one off and therefore entirely unique.
#3 Bold Silhouettes: Greg Natale
Greg Natale hardly needs an introduction – the Australian interior designer has been going from strength to strength for over two decades. His name has become synonymous with flawlessly glamorous interiors, both in Australia and around the world. In the words of Jonathan Adler: “Greg Natale’s rooms are designed with such sureness that they look as if they were always meant to be!” In 2024 his aesthetic has evolved from the maximalism he is renowned for to a structural elegance and more pared-back aesthetic.
One of the hero speakers at the 2024 International Seminar Series at Decor + Design, Greg showed the next generation of Australian interior designers how to create bold silhouettes and timeless elegance, such as that on display in his recent project ‘Bellevue Hill House‘ (right).
#4 Understated Sustainable Luxury: E9 Design’s Hugo Modular Sofa
Sydney brand E9 Design have quickly established a reputation for designing furniture that goes the distance. They take an innovative approach by sourcing durable, sustainable materials, taking an innovative approach to manufacturing and supporting end-of-life recycling. In fact, 97% of all the materials they use is recyclable.
The Rolly sofa provides the ultimate in casual lounging whilst also making a striking design statement.
Its innovative movable back rest ‘roll’ means you can reconfigure your seating instantly. Create a cozy love seat, back to back seating or simply change your orientation. The beautiful sweeping curves on both sides make Rolly a great fit for open plan areas.
#5 Australian Artisans
Australian artisans came to the fore in 2024, with consumers keen to slow down and embrace the beauty of authentic craft and handmade objects. The Makers Movement at the 2024 Green Design Show at Decor + Design & AIFF showcased local artisans who are a key part of the circular economy, including Master Upholster John Halpin (right). John’s craft restores designer pieces to their original glory, keeping them in circulation for years to come.
From bold silhouettes to tactile materials and artisan-made pieces, 2024 was a year where design connected us to nature, heritage, and innovation. Exhibitors like GlobeWest, E9 Design and Koskela led the way, showcasing sculptural simplicity, thoughtful craftsmanship and sustainable practices. They remind us of the power of design to inspire, ground, and elevate our everyday lives.
As you start dreaming up your masterplan for 2025, be sure to mark your diaries for the 21st edition of Decor + Design & The Australian International Furniture Fair (AIFF), Australia’s premier interior design trade event, 16 – 18 July at Melbourne Exhibition Centre. Register now to be added to the visitor list and also receive updates on key exhibitors and features at the event.