No architecture, no interiors: time and time again, it is outstanding architectural works that have a decisive influence on innovative interior concepts. For as preferences with regard to contemporary buildings change, our interior design tastes naturally change as well. A look at building styles in the private sector shows that changes in certain conditions can result in entire room concepts changing.
Whereas there used to be a very clear separation between the living room, dining room and kitchen, for instance, the desire for spacious, loft-like layouts has led to the current “live-in kitchen” megatrend. As a global trend barometer for modern living, the imm cologne 2012 will therefore be offering visitors various “Architektouren” in and around Cologne in addition to the wide range of products on show in the halls of the exhibition centre.
Koelnmesse’s idea of organising excursions to the architectural masterpieces of various epochs all the way to the modern era got off to a very successful start at the imm cologne 2011. In fact, the concept was so successful that the tour programme for 2012 is even more extensive. For when it comes to internationally renowned architecture, Cologne certainly has plenty to offer.
“Cologne isn’t just famous for its carnival and cheerful characters; it’s also a metropolis that produces a wealth of sensational buildings,” says Frank Haubold, Vice President Trade Fair Management. “Just think of the ‘Köln Triangle’ high-rise near Deutz bridgehead and the discussion it sparked about this city’s high-rise silhouette. And then of course there’s Cologne Cathedral, an imposing example of gothic architecture since time immemorial. Or the ambitious Dock One project in Mülheim. During the course of the year, we’ve been investigating new routes for the Architektouren and would like to invite anyone with an interest in architecture to become better acquainted with Cologne and its architectural highlights.”
Koelnmesse has selected a total of eight for different days of the fair: “4×4 – 4 Neighbourhoods – 4 Architectural Highlights”, “Diversity and Integration – the Central Mosque”, “Minimalism in Architecture”, “Kolumba”, “Cultural Quarter at Neumarkt”, “Modern Church Architecture”, “Rheinau Harbour” and “Peter Zumthor’s Brother Klaus Chapel”. The roughly two-hour excursions start on the first day of the fair, i.e. on Monday, 16th January. As a rule, there will be two excursions a day, with some destinations being offered several times up until 21st January 2012, others only once. Early, definite bookings are therefore advisable and can be made via Kultur Event Büro in Frechen, Tel. +49 (0) 2234 43000937, avh@kultureventbuero.de. The meeting point for all the Architektouren is the Info Counter at the south entrance of the exhibition centre. During the trade fair, spur-of-the-moment bookings can be made at Kultur Event Büro’s stand in Hall 3.2 (Booth No. A 031).
