For the past four years DENFAIR has let the design and architecture community congregate under one roof to share their inspiration and intel. Always on the front foot, the exceptionally curated event has announced an exciting new direction for 2019 that includes a focus on ‘LIFE WORK’: the contemporary workplace.

From June 20-22 in Melbourne DENFAIR 2019 will be dishing up a feast of local and global design and generating thought-provoking conversation through their installations and speaker series. For a preview of what’s to come (and what you should definitely earmark), we’re sharing our notes on what you must-see, must-do and must-know for DENFAIR 2019.

Must-see

Since its inception DENFAIR has been devoted to design that centres on the way we live. But this year DENFAIR has gone beyond, by exploring how our personal and work lives are now often intertwined.

DENFAIR Co-founder Claudio Oyarce said this was a natural progression, as many of the exhibitors “are specified in both residential and commercial environments”. LIFE WORK will also be exploring “the crossover between work and life, and how our environments have been changing to reflect this.” In this new sector, you’ll find first-time exhibitors and smart solutions developed for the increasingly mobile workforce, looking into the future of how we work and how our workplaces reflect the comforts of home. It will also cater to those working at home by exploring how you can create spaces best suited towards productivity.

After launching a prototype at last year’s event, the ETO Desk – a collaboration between King Living and Sydney-based designer Tom Fereday – couldn’t be more relevant in 2019. It’s the perfect example of how design can push the boundaries of how we work.

Here you will find Angela Ferguson and Gavin Harris’ immersive Futurespace installation that aims to express the complex nature of the workplace through three segments. Each segment will communicate a distinct purpose ‘to focus, socialise and collaborate’. You should also look out for Cult Design’s NAU range in the workspace sector, and other brands including Melbourne-based VUUE.

Must-do

It goes without saying, the Speaker Series should be on your to-do list at DENFAIR 2019. This year brings together an esteemed panel of speakers to discuss workspace, sustainability and the constantly evolving culture of design. Speakers include director of local design firm GOLDEN Alicia McKimm, director of IF Architecture Iva Foschia and founding director of DesignOffice Mark Simpson. If you’re looking to support emerging Australian designers, check out the ‘Front | Centre 2019’ – an exhibition that aims to present and reward new product craftsmanship and talent in design.

We also recommend exploring what’s new for brands such as DOMO Furniture, who will be revealing their Wittmann range, featuring Maison & Objet designer of the year Sebastian Herkner’s collection. Cosh Living will be sharing a taste of Italy with Potocco, that produces both indoor and outdoor furniture. They will also be housing DEDON at their stand, who has collaborated with the likes of GamFratesi, Phillippe Stark, Edward Berber & Jay Osgerby and Sebastian Herkner.

If it’s a cocktail you’re after, this year’s bar caters particularly well to the green thumb. The Living Bar is a collaboration between Melbourne designer Adam Cornish and green wall specialists Junglefy, made from thousands of live plants and including edible seasonal varieties. You’ll also be sipping in style using Adam Cornish’s new seating and table collection. For a winter warmer, Wallpaper* will be serving up a timber chalet-inspired experience at their restaurant.

Must-know

As we said last year, DENFAIR 2019 is a 16 and over event that kicks off as an exhibit for professionals and their clients. Saturday is open to the public to share in the fun, but no sales will be taking place so remember to take a list of what captures your attention. Visit DENFAIR 2019 to purchase your ticket.