When designing small-scale
interiors there is no room for compromise. In order to maximize the potential
of available square footage, configurability in furniture selection is the key
to achieving the functionality and comfort we associate with larger spaces.
For years, condo dwellers
in Toronto have been stuck choosing pieces that are less than a perfect fit. Now, casalife is solving this problem with innovative
and ultimately flexible designs. New products on the market are
multi-functional and adaptable for unique and individual spaces, allowing the
consumer to customize, not compromise. To demonstrate this concept, casalife has incorporated a wide variety of products in the Liberty Village showroom that flaunt the latest trends in configurability, a term that is becoming the ‘new black’ in small space design. casalife’s goal is to educate visitors, and showcase that key pieces can allow small spaces to live up to their full potential.
Key ‘configurable’ pieces that can been seen at this years show include: Savvy, Semblance, Iso, and Fusion. Each piece has a different function that will educate visitors on how to shop smart for furniture that makes the most of every inch.
Savvy, a stunning white
lacquer dresser with a built in desk, is designed so it can easily be extended
from 49 inches to 76 inches. The design is an example of ‘instant
configurability’. It can be used as a dresser, desk or both, and allows the
user to double up on space. Savvy can be made bigger or smaller depending on
daily needs or the physical restrictions of your space.
Semblance, a modular system
that quadruples as an office, storage solution, dining table and media unit, is
perfect example of ‘endless configurability’. It will fit in a room of any size
by selecting the components that best fit the space. Drawers, desktop surfaces
and shelving are just some of the pieces that can be re-organized and
configured as necessary. Semblance’s vertical storage saves valuable floor
space.
Iso, a swivel chair, has been
artfully designed so that it can be folded out into a lounger or fully extended
into a single bed.
Fusion, a fresh take on a
traditional dining table, easily transforms into a billiards table, essentially
allowing two rooms to exist in one space. Fusion’s ingenious design is sleek
and sophisticated, perfect for condo dwellers that love to entertain but may be
short on space.
Configurability does not need
to be complicated. The goal is smarter design and even smarter spending. The
research behind product development is the key factor in what makes the
configurability trend different. casalife’s Robert Whitfield says, “Quite
often, the dialogue that starts with visitors at the show results in products
that end up on our showroom floor. We start to see trends in what the public is
looking for. When we get enough requests, we take the steps to find or build
the product in order to respond to that demand.”Configurable furniture does more than just save space, it adds value, and that is smart design. By selecting pieces with multiple functions that maximize space, the urban dweller can achieve everything they want in minimal square feet, and that is design without compromise.
In addition to offering lessons on maximizing space and making smart design choices, the interior design team at casalife showcase current industry trends. For example, ‘Organic Neutrals’ explores integrating organic elements and textures with crisp whites and neutrals to bring warmth into the space, while, ‘Boutique Chic’, is a trend that features tailored details, tufting, mirrored accents and contrasting colours to give the home interior a look that was inspired from a chic boutique hotel.
