Maison&Objet Paris is set to captivate the global design community from January 15 to 19, 2026, presenting its profound theme, 'Past Reveals Future'. This iteration promises an immersive journey through seven distinct halls and six sectors, where cutting-edge innovation seamlessly intertwines with timeless tradition. A central highlight is the significantly expanded CURATIO installation, meticulously curated by the distinguished German designer and interior architect, Thomas Haarmann. Building on its successful 2025 debut with 18 participants, this collectible design showcase has evolved into a vibrant 'village' featuring 60 international creators. Haarmann emphasizes that this second edition delves deeper into the art of re-positioning, amplifying the tranquil and contemplative atmosphere while broadening the overall experience.
The event reaffirms Paris's status as the epicenter of design, serving as a dynamic nexus where exquisite craftsmanship meets contemporary aesthetics. Maison&Objet, with its rich history spanning over three decades, continuously fosters an environment where the exchange of knowledge and skills ignites fresh creative endeavors. This philosophy is perfectly embodied by Harry Nuriev, the Designer of the Year and founder of Crosby Studio, whose 'Transformism' manifesto aligns with the core theme by advocating for the revitalization of existing objects. Alongside curated displays by Elizabeth Leriche, François Delclaux, and Rudy Guénaire, Nuriev's immersive scenography provides a compelling backdrop for the CURATIO village, a dedicated space for exploring the profound concept of rarity in design. Here, Haarmann articulates that rarity transcends mere status, emerging as an intrinsic ethos where objects engage in a harmonious dialogue, enriching each other's narratives through shared aesthetics and subtle contrasts.
The Evolving Landscape of Collectible Design at CURATIO
The CURATIO installation at Maison&Objet 2026 is meticulously structured to offer a dual sensory experience, combining a vibrant village of interconnected spaces with a serene, minimalist exhibition gallery. This thoughtful layout, according to curator Thomas Haarmann, is fundamental to encouraging profound engagement with the showcased works. The gallery space, in particular, is designed to provide unparalleled clarity and quietude, acting as a pristine canvas where each piece can articulate its own story, free from external distractions. Visitors are invited to engage in a slow, deliberate observation, allowing them to fully appreciate the intricate details of material and craftsmanship. Here, design transcends mere visual perception; it becomes a deeply felt and internalized experience, fostering a genuine connection between the viewer and the art. This deliberate approach aims to highlight the intrinsic value and thoughtful creation behind each exhibit.
By prioritizing harmony over competition, the CURATIO environment masterfully redefines rarity, presenting it not as an exclusive spectacle but as an inherent ethos woven into the fabric of creation. The 2026 exhibition proudly features an array of distinguished signatures, including the robust solid oak furniture crafted by Van Rossum, the innovative functional art pieces from Zieta, and the ethereal, suspended universes envisioned by Verter Turroni. Haarmann encapsulates the essence of this curated space, asserting that within this collective framework, visitors can truly grasp rarity as the culmination of meticulous intention, unwavering integrity, and profound devotion. It speaks to the quiet, yet powerful, influence of design when it is fully realized, offering a rich tapestry of creativity where every object contributes to a larger, harmonious narrative.
Embracing 'Past Reveals Future' through Curatorial Vision
Maison&Objet's overarching theme for 2026, 'Past Reveals Future,' serves as a guiding principle for the entire event, particularly evident in the curated experiences and installations. This theme underscores the profound belief that understanding and honoring historical design principles, techniques, and aesthetic philosophies are crucial for shaping innovative and forward-thinking creations. It encourages a reflective approach to design, where the legacy of craftsmanship and the evolution of materials provide a rich foundation for contemporary expression. The event's various sectors and showcases are designed to illustrate this dynamic interplay, demonstrating how designers draw inspiration from the past to envision and construct the future, ensuring that progress is always rooted in a deep appreciation for heritage.
The integration of the 'Past Reveals Future' theme is vividly brought to life through the contributions of Designer of the Year Harry Nuriev and the expanded CURATIO installation. Nuriev's 'Transformism' manifesto exemplifies this ethos by advocating for the reinvention and renewed purpose of existing objects, thereby bridging past forms with future functions. Simultaneously, the CURATIO village, under Thomas Haarmann's discerning eye, creates a space where diverse collectible designs from around the world converge. This curated collection showcases how artists and craftsmen reinterpret traditional methods and materials to produce contemporary works, revealing the timelessness of quality and thoughtful creation. These elements collectively transform Maison&Objet into a powerful platform that not only celebrates innovative design but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the enduring dialogue between heritage and modernity, making it a compelling exploration of design's continuous evolution.