This year’s edition of the International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF), held at the Javits Center in Manhattan from May 17-19, was guided by the theme Common Ground: A Global Dialogue on Design and Shared Vision. For the 400-plus exhibitors, this meant a return to craft, a celebration of all things artisanal and made by hand. Bespoke objects were much closer to art than utilitarian basics. Carved wood, patinated metals, smoked finishes, and slubbed yarns referenced cherished items passed from one generation to the next.
Of course, most of the buzz was about the news that after 37 years in its May spot on the calendar, the show will now take place in November 2027, and run concurrently with Boutique Design New York (BDNY). Organizers plan to keep both as distinct trade fairs, yet some guests were concerned their attention would be divided between the two. They also commented that ICFF felt smaller this year, and worried that the focus on student projects and independent studios might not be as strong. It is too early to make any predictions, but anything from the weather or events already scheduled will certainly factor in. Claire Pijoulat, ICFF brand director, said most feedback so far has been positive, and that the switch “will create an interesting overlap of audience and allow more attendees to see more exhibitors.”
While we eagerly await what 2027 will bring, let’s take a look at some of the key products and companies we spotted at the recent fair.
The Multitaskers
Furniture and accessories are truly multifunctional, and can fit in a variety of settings, from home to office. From full-size chairs to small objects that fit on shelves, pieces are easy to move from room to room. Deap Design’s circular chair has wide arms that double as side tables. It features bio-degradable wool padding instead of petroleum-based polyurethane foam. With a recyclable steel frame and recycled cotton blend fabric, it is an eco-friendly option too.
The Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output (MiMo) collection by Noteworthy Studio translates the structural logic of ports and highways into a chair and tables with integrated power for more flexible, untethered use. The collection incorporates sustainable materials, including a translucent Polygood tabletop made from recycled CD cases. These furnishings offer new ways to recharge devices within shared spaces.
Acoustic Solutions With Style
Acoustic panels are essential in high-traffic open spaces, but they all too often don’t blend with the existing décor. Loom Song was a highlight at the show, and is anything but basic. This new collection from Leon Speakers and Maison Tóukkani turns art for walls into noise reducers with style. Hand-knotted Moroccan wool rugs include Ultratouch Denim insulation for reinforced sound absorption. A custom frame completes the look, and each piece is one-of-a-kind because of differences in color and yarn texture.
LiteMirror introduced a line of panels that boast acoustic performance properties. These pieces look like mirrors made of glass, but they are actually film-based reflective panels that are lightweight and shatter-proof. With a NRC rating of 0.15, these high-shine items are designed to be placed in fitness centers, corridors, and hospitality environments where discreet but functional objects are needed.
Into the Woods
Wood was everywhere on the show floor, in a variety of styles, from rustic and sleek to combinations that blend a little of both. Handcrafted tables and chairs are heirloom-quality objects, with prominent grains and a range of textures. Oregon based-Fernweh Woodworking showed the new Oxbend Windsor Bench (plus matching stool) in a crisp white hue. Spliced steam-bent pieces of wood, hand-shaped curves, and wedged-tenon leg joinery form this entryway bench that can be used as a settee, with an optional leather seat pad for added comfort.
Canadian studio Le Tenon & La Mortaise had their signature Douglas fir products on display. Tables, screens, and stools with marked grain are classic and durable furnishings that elevate the everyday. Surfaces are covered in clear oil or matte stains, in tones like lilac, green, and yellow to provide pops of fresh color without obscuring the character of the wood.
Sculptural Light Fixtures
Sconces are meant to be grouped together on walls in unique configurations, while stacked table lamps resemble art work. Materials run the gamut from metals to soft fabrics. Base and shades have irregular shapes, with striations that are proud marks of the maker. Based in New York City, Numia Design produces lamps and home accessories from bio-plastic PLA (from corn and sugarcane). These lights are printed in small batches, then tested and hand-finished. Small and large versions are available in fun colors like coral, sea green, and yellow.
Designer Rodrigo Vairinhos was on hand to introduce Le Roi Soleil, which he said is not just a fixture but a presence. A wall and ceiling lamp that features aluminum, stoneware, and mineral concrete, this new luminaire has industrial appeal.
