
HEIMTEXTIL 2020
Happy New Year! I hope 2020 is off to a good start. Mine definitely is. In a couple of days I will be heading to Frankfurt, Germany to attend the 50th anniversary of Heimtextil, the world’s largest textile trade show geared specifically for interior design. It is a gathering place for retailers, wholesalers, designers, architects, furniture and bedding store buyers. Here they preview the newest textile introductions and see (and experience) the textile trends for 2020/21. Many of you may recall that I attended last year. It was a valuable experience, and I had so much to report in my Heimtextil 2019 Trend Report. I plan to do the same this year.

In addition to Trend Space, there are several other areas that I will focus on at Heimtextil 2020. Sustainability continues to build steam, in part because of their recent collaboration to globally further the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. This year there are more sustainable products than ever with over 250 companies presenting sustainably produced textiles. The Green Directory provides an exhibitor index focusing on sustainability. Green Tours and the Green Village will also provide answers an solutions to those seeking information on green issues. Heimtextil’s newly developed Material Manifesto has committed to approach the conception of Trend Space by practicing sustainability. By using local resources, environmentally friendly material alternatives, rented and loaned materials, manage waster responsibly, and design for recyclability Heimtextil is also doing their part in avoiding excess waste.

Having the previous year under my belt, it will be interesting to see how the textile trends have evolved since last year. One thing that I have noticed from the trend preview is that color is still present, but it appears that the saturation has been dialed down a notch. This year’s encompassing theme is #WHERE I BELONG which addresses the multifaceted characteristics of the five Heimtextil 2020-21 trends that have been identified by stiljinstituut amsterdam. Stiljinstituut Amsterdam is a Netherlands based trend agency responsible for the content and implementation of this year’s Trend Space, the highlight of Heimtextil.
Trend Space – #WHEREIBELONG
This year’s overarching theme shows that one size does not fit all. We are mulit-faceted individuals but have been given permission to identify with more than one group. Diversity in personality and appearance is to be embraced and celebrated, much like today’s society.

This year’s 5 trends that encompass #WHERE I BELONG:
- MAXIMUM GLAM – turns the glamorous life tech-savvy
- PURE SPIRITUAL – finds balance in nature and mysticism
- ACTIVE URBAN – values utilitarian, adaptable solutions
- HERITAGE LUX – celebrates rich, historical legacies
- MULTI-LOCAL – embraces global, cultural influences
MAXIMUM GLAM

Individuals crave intense experiences – Instagrammable moments to self-express. These moments create a need for a new virtual reality where multi-sensory experiences occur on-screen and are inspired by real-life tactility.
PURE SPIRITUAL

Life in today’s political climate and global uncertainty is leading to increased anxiety. To counterbalance this fast-paced, hectic, and changing world, individuals are turning to nature and ancient spiritual practices.
ACTIVE URBAN

Active Urban is geared towards younger, design-driven consumers living an active, city lifestyle. Simplicity, affordability, and flexibility with a priority on function and aesthetics is key.
HERITAGE LUX

Society is realizing the need to embrace and celebrate global heritage. What is gone cannot be replaced but can be reimagined in an inspiring way. The renewed feel for the ancient coincides an increasing desire for the magical.
MULTI-LOCAL

Global design is no longer led by the West. Instead, there are strong design influences coming from Asia, the Middle East, and African countries. In these countries, cultural heritage is revered and layered with global influences.
Heimtextil 2020 – Follow Along!
Heimtextil takes place January 7-10, 2020 at Messe Frankfurt and the trade fair will be buzzing with a lot of events, including a fête to celebrate Heimtextil’s 50th Anniversary. Many I know have expressed an interest to attend Heimtextil. You might not be attending this year but perhaps you might next year? In the meantime, you can follow along while I provide live coverage on my social media channels:
Other journalists will also be attending and will be using the hashtags: #Heimtextil #Heimtextil20 #MesseFrankfurt #WHEREIBELONG There is nothing like attending Heimtextil in the flesh, but following tgese hashtags is the next best thing. You won’t be disappointed by the inspiration, creativity, and the head start of what to expect in interior textile trends. Next stop, Frankfurt!
I love all the trends, the concept of telling your own story, the love of color and that global style and sustainable design is on the rise!