Maison + Objet + Obsessions (September 2011)

Images + Text: Anne Ditmeyer, Prêt à Voyager

Each year at Maison + Objet, the premiere design trade show in France, there are rooms devoted to tendences, or trends, that work to showcase various designers in different ways. This year the one that struck me most was called Obsessions Privées, or Private Obsessions, curated by Elizabeth Leriche and focusing on collections we all keep in some way, shape or form. The facade of the mini "exhibit" was covered in silhouetted figures holding their own obsessions – with a sense of humor – ranging from toilet paper to a Princess Diane plate or even a noose. Inside the rooms actual collections ranged from vases to teapots, shoes, toasters, an 11 year old's jean collection, and a collection of plastic bags and cleaning brushes. It was a good reminder that we all have our own obsessions and things that make us tick. Even if you're not a designer yourself, I think it's interesting to think about the way your own obsessions could become the next big thing – it's all how you look at it (and display it).

Enter.

Butterflies series by Joseph Warren.

Klaas Kuiken bottle collection.

Nathalie Lete's doll collection in front of her work it inspires.

Lea Ricorday's collection of "U-shaped" plastic bags.

Toaster collection by Jens Veerbeck.


The youngest contributor at age 11, Jules Naudan's jean collection.

Variations on a theme.

Daniel Rozensztroch's colorful cleaning collection.

As one walks through the seemingly endless rows of the 8 halls of Maison Objet you find yourself amongst the inspirational, the good, the not so good, and the sometimes ugly – yet our inner obsessions start to emerge as new work grabs us according to our own tastes, desire, and pleasure.

Despite being a trade only event, there are still ways to experience M+O vicariously.  One of the best ways to plan your next trip to M+O – or to visit vicariously – is to download their iPhone application which makes it easy to search by exhibitor (it also includes information about Paris Design Week). While seeing the work in person is always a joy, sometimes going home and looking deeper into their work on the designer's website can be just as enjoyable as time tends to be limited and there is so much to see. Furthermore, the app is a fantastic resource and easier to navigate than the official website, and a great tool for discovering "new" designers.

Tips for planning your visit to M+O:

• Maison Objet happens every September and January and you must prove you are a trade professional to purchase entry.
• Each year the event takes place at Parc des Expositions, Villepoint. The easiest way to get to M+O is on the RER B towards Charles de Gaulle Airport. Note that it's not unlikely for this line to have issues, delays, or in the case of some years, strikes – be patient.
• Wear comfortable shoes. Walking the halls of the trade show is almost like walking a marathon.
• Food on site tends to be more expensive than in Paris, so it's not a bad idea to pack your own lunch, or at least a snack. The good news is that over the years they've added more options – it just depends if you have the energy to seek out the perfect spot.
• On the final day of the show, some, not all vendors may sell items off their stand for below retail prices.
• There is no free wifi in the building, and even French phones on the 3G network don't seem to connect very well. It's not a bad idea to bring a phone charger if you expect you will be online a lot.
• Download the app to get a sense of who is there to plan your next visit.