Collectible Design: High Added Value

Rare – often unique or produced in extremely limited series – innovative – exploring high-tech materials and groundbreaking processes – and precious – challenging craftsmanship and raw materials. Galleries exhibit these works, represent designers, and collaborate with creative studios. Whether it’s Galerie Kréo or Carpenters Workshop Gallery in Paris, now also in London and New York, Lokal Gallery in Helsinki, Southern Guild in Cape Town, Colony in Manhattan, or Fumi in Mayfair… each explores a precise creative territory. Collectible design has carved out a place in design fairs, inspired dedicated events like Collectible in Brussels and, since September, in New York, and flirts with major contemporary art fairs. It hints at the evolution of this still-young collectible design market, with one-of-a-kind pieces establishing value at auction houses.

Uniqueness and Emotion

In January, Elizabeth Leriche took over the What’s New in Decor? space with a dramatic interpretation of the Terra Cosmos theme. Among the brilliantly curated pieces, Draga & Aurel's work stood out. Alongside collaborations with brands like Gallotti&Radice and Poltrona Frau, this Como-based duo has since 2019 been producing a more personal, unique, and artistic collection. The Transparency Matters collection is handcrafted in the studios of Draga Obradovic and Aurel K. Basedow, where they explore new materials, combine unique elements, and juxtapose minimalist iron, bronze, or concrete structures with vibrant resins. “The appeal of these pieces lies in a quest for meaning; they are objects that contrast with mass production, embodying exceptional craftsmanship. It’s the artisan’s hand dedicated to a contemporary design meant to endure. Today, we are seeking the icons of tomorrow—the emblematic pieces that will both define their time and whose aura will extend well beyond,” comments Elizabeth Leriche. She is also excited about the approach of newcomers like the publisher Théorème and the recent work of Normal Studio showcased by Galerie Jousse in Paris. “My discerning eye is always on the lookout, eager for surprising objects and inspiring encounters with designers,” she adds. A passion shared by interior designers and decorators alike.

Noteworthy Signatures

After an initial career change, Fabien Colomines transitioned from consultancy to woodworking and now takes his first steps into the world of collectible design. Gradually familiarizing himself with its challenges and players, he debuted at the Paris Design Factory in September 2023, a springboard for emerging designers, and will be featured at Maison&Objet in January 2024. “I stuck close to the stand for a week!” he laughs. “I needed direct feedback from customers, to gauge reactions and identify who was drawn to my work.” His stools and coffee tables, either unique pieces or limited to eight units, have since joined the collections at the Centre Pompidou Boutique and Le Bon Marché, attracting interest from galleries and institutions alike. He’s learned that these unique designs may eventually gain value beyond his considerable time spent on conception and crafting. Much like art, collectible design offers investment potential. But for now, Maison&Objet gave him the chance to connect with over 200 architects and decorators enchanted by his meticulous, handcrafted creations made from reclaimed materials, with refined lacquered finishes offering a blend of striking yet timeless design.

Curatio at Maison&Objet

Designers and decorators are drawn to these unique, original pieces because of their narrative and emotional power. They tell stories, evoke sensations, and spark reactions. In hospitality or retail, they answer a major need for differentiation. “Collectible design embodies the artistic dimension of decor, where design and aesthetics merge to create a singular and unforgettable sensory experience,” says Nathalie Moreno, who, alongside the Maison&Objet team, will bring Curatio to life in January. This capsule, conceived as a unique experience and curated by designer and interior architect Thomas Haarman, will be located in Hall 7 at the heart of the Signature sector. His selection will include pieces by around twenty creators, each one “a limited series produced in Europe, artistically distinguished and showcasing exceptional craftsmanship” – a memorable encounter in the making.