Talking Points
Talking Points
Connection. It’s what we’re all after, and now the interior design world is here to lend a helping hand. The epoch of sitting down and having a conversation has dawned, of looking into our friends and family’s eyes – not on a screen – and really hearing them.
The time of the TV as the entertainment centre du jour is over – so why should all of our furniture angle towards it? Let’s shake off that convention and make rooms more about people again, about talking and contemplating. About hosting and games and drinks and snacks and generally connecting. Try to put that phone down for a moment. Sounds good doesn’t it?
Connection, It’s what we’re all after, and now the interior design world is here to lend a helping hand. The epoch of sitting down and having a conversation has dawned, of looking into our friends and family’s eyes – not on a screen – and really hearing them.
The time of the TV as the entertainment centre du jour is over – so why should all of our furniture angle towards it? Let’s shake off that convention and make rooms more about people again, about talking and contemplating. About hosting and games and drinks and snacks and generally connecting. Try to put that phone down for a moment. Sounds good doesn’t it?
Avio Sofa by Knoll
Prado Sofa by Ligne Roset
Pacha Outdoor by Gubi
DS-707 Sofa by DeSede
"The most important thing in the room: other people"
Miller House (1952) Courtesy of Vitra
Saarinen Lounge Table by Knoll
Decorating-wise, it’s really quite simple. Some kind of vague circle formation is key - do bear in mind the other beautiful things to enjoy: window views or artworks or fireplaces, but seating should be primarily focused on the most important thing in the room: other people.
IIf you want to go hard, get involved with the growing movement for 1970s-esque conversation pits and get your architecture involved by sinking an acoustic-enhancing speaking space into the floor of your living room and lining it with cushions. If you want to make things a little easier for yourself, create intimate enclosures with freestanding sofas, benches, chairs or poufs to foster a sense of closeness where guests or family members can relax and open up.
Stay Sofa by Gubi
Sideways Sofa by Carl Hansen
Ember Firepit by Cane-Line
Social Seating
At the heart of this is face-to-face interaction, so it should feel intimate, calm and comfortable. Make sure that seating is an easy-to-hear distance apart, that support pieces such as side tables are plentiful and that lighting is pleasantly layered and lowered. Make the wifi connection patchy if you have to. And get ready to engage in some real quality time.
Social Seating
At the heart of this is face-to-face interaction, so it should feel intimate, calm and comfortable. Make sure that seating is an easy-to-hear distance apart, that support pieces such as side tables are plentiful and that lighting is pleasantly layered and lowered. Make the wifi connection patchy if you have to. And get ready to engage in some real quality time.
Life outdoors doesn't need much to feel spectacular. But if it’s an ethereal Eden you’re after, then a little lighting can go a long way. From portable solar lanterns through to thoughtfully-placed wall lights, our selection of outdoor lighting solutions will help extend your soirées into the small hours. Delve into our favourites, here…
Free System by Acerbis
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