With its new central theme, Germany’s largest Interior Business Event is positioning itself as a vital link between the key participants in the interior design industry

Communal concepts are becoming increasingly popular. More and more people are willing to share both spaces and physical objects, not only for practical and financial reasons, but also because of their need to feel connected and be part of society. Schemes like co-working, co-living, community gardening and car-sharing are attracting growing support because of the many advantages they have to offer. As well as developing community spirit, activities like these increase flexibility drive progress towards greater sustainability and expand networking opportunities, in turn leading to efficiency gains and cost savings.

This shift towards a more community-minded approach is also gaining relevance in the world of interior design. Rather than simply responding to the growing demand for innovative ideas and products that meet the needs of an interconnected and community-oriented society, industry professionals are also showing themselves to be open to communal concepts. To explore this topical development, imm cologne has chosen Connecting Communities as its new central theme.

“As a key meeting hub for the industry, we aim to actively promote dialogue and networking within the world of interior design. By offering an innovative trade fair concept and a wide range of event formats and networking opportunities, we specifically want to promote cooperation between interior design professionals and empower them to collaborate more closely,” explains Dick Spierenburg, Director of imm cologne.

For example, exhibitors can team up to design and build stands together and share stand catering. That way, they benefit not only from effective and cost-efficient presentation options, but also from the resulting creative synergies. All without changing the individual characteristics and special features of any of the brands involved.

Innovative trade fair experience brings people together

However, imm cologne’s approach to building communities and connecting industry participants isn’t limited to establishing shared exhibition spaces. Exhibitors and visitors also have the opportunity to network beyond the trade fair stands. The “Circles” concept made its debut at the imm Spring Edition, offering various types of content and event platforms. In some of these Circles, or round exhibition spaces, guests from the worlds of media and education join top-class exhibitors, start-ups and representatives from other sectors in presenting their visions for design and interiors in compact installations.

As a new feature at imm cologne 2024, and as one of the various Circle types, hospitality zones will play a more prominent role. Where good food and drink are on the menu, networking, chance encounters and fun times naturally follow. A relaxed atmosphere stimulates face-to-face conversations and strengthens community spirit. This holistic approach creates a feeling of connection that goes beyond the conventional trade fair experience.

Further information can be found here, here or here