Interview with Stefan Zwicky, the man behind the scenes

What highlights can visitors expect at neue räume 15?

Firstly, “neue räume” will be featuring the latest designs by leading furniture manufacturers from around Europe. The product spectrum ranges from lamps and kitchens to textiles and flooring. As is the case with all other trade fairs, these presentations will be complemented by many new special shows and projects. This year, the focus is on residential architecture: under the title of “meuble – immeuble” several presentations will address the topic, which is certain to stimulate discussion. One of my personal highlights, by the way, is the unique ambience of the old ABB Hall in Zurich-Oerlikon.

What’s the relationship between residential architecture and real estate?

That’s quite obvious: they are mutually dependent. Without ‘immeuble’, there is no ‘meuble’. When investing in a property or building, the materials used to create rooms and spaces, the ambience and the ability to furnish the space are important decision-making factors. The relationship between space and furnishing is the focus of the four special shows, which are united under the title of meuble-immeuble.

What makes “neue räume” unique?

Compared to other trade fairs, “neue räume” is relatively small, yet exclusive. And this is exactly the quality that makes neue räume so special for both exhibitors and visitors. Manufacturers can meet, and directly talk to, architects, planners, interior designers and consumers, without the intermediary filter of retailers, and consumers can see products they would never find in the shops.

And what makes Zurich the perfect place for a trade fair like neue räume?

There is no other country where you would find such a large number of people – people who value design and have a profound interest in residential culture and interior design – in such a comparably small space. The reason for this is that, with no history of imperialism, the Swiss increasingly turned towards modern interiors during the second half of the 20th century. And this extraordinary interest in design has prevailed to the present day, with young Swiss design being very popular again today. Over the last few years, the Swiss design schools have turned out many young and talented designers, who are keen to show what they are capable of. Additionally, many designers are attracted by Zurich’s international flair and high standard of living. Almost a twelfth of the local workforce works in the creative and cultural industries. That’s why Zurich is ideal for a trade fair like neue räume.

What’s the story behind you initially establishing neue räume?

The idea was hatched by an informal group of producers, importers and agents (PIA) who were convinced that joining forces would provide an opportunity to create a prominent public platform for the topic of residential culture and interior design. We developed a concept and called it ‘neue räume’. And a very successful idea it has been: this year, for the eighth time, we will reach a large audience of people who love good design.