A Glimpse at 2024's Most Influential Design Stories

Reflect on a year of trailblazing design with a look back at the top ten design stories of 2024 – as chosen by you, the readers. Wallpaper* magazine's most-read design stories of the year highlight exciting firsts and collaborative triumphs.

Patricia Urquiola and Kvadrat's Sustainable Upholstery

Named Best Recycled Material at the Wallpaper* Design Awards 2024, Patricia Urquiola’s Sport textile for Kvadrat is the world's first upholstery textile made from 100% ocean-bound plastic. This innovative fabric is created from post-consumer plastic collected within 10km of the coastline of Thailand, featuring a vibrant color palette and tactile patterns.

Design Dynasties: The Powerhouse Families of Italian Furnishing

Wallpaper* met with eight Italian families who have set global standards in furniture design. They shared personal stories and experiences behind their enduring success, along with glimpses of their cherished designs through the lens of photographer Bea De Giacomo.

A New Era for Iittala

Under the direction of new creative leader Janni Vepsäläinen, Iittala embraces imperfection and unpredictability, unveiling collections that honor the legacy of Aino and Alvar Aalto. Her debut collection at the Stockholm Furniture Fair 2024 featured a unique performance using hand-blown glass instruments.

Ikea and Raw Color's Vibrant Crafts

The Tesammans collection, a collaboration between Ikea and Eindhoven-based Raw Color, showcases playful designs, vibrant textures, and an empowering color spectrum aimed at inspiring creativity in living spaces.

David Lynch Presents 'A Thinking Room' at Salone del Mobile

At the Salone del Mobile 2024, David Lynch introduced 'Interiors by David Lynch. A Thinking Room', marking a cinematic experience that blends his directorial vision with design.

Rimowa and La Marzocco’s Compact Espresso Machine

Rimowa collaborated with La Marzocco to create the Linea Mini espresso machine, combining German and Italian design principles in a compact, stylish format.

Ido Yoshimoto's Sculptural Pieces

Sculptor Ido Yoshimoto discussed his journey from arborist to artist in his California studio, focusing on creating sculptures and furniture from reclaimed materials.

50 Years of the Rubik's Cube

Hungarian inventor Ernő Rubik reflects on the legacy of the Rubik's Cube, a design classic that has captivated minds since its inception 50 years ago.

Air Play Moon Safari

The Air Play Moon Safari tour featured a unique stage design, presenting a retro-futuristic aesthetic that challenges conventional performance spaces.

Designing the Olympics

As the 2024 Paris Olympics approaches, we delve into the design process behind this monumental event, exploring innovative mascots and sustainable medal designs.

Each of these stories reflects a unique aspect of the evolving landscape of design in 2024, showcasing creativity, sustainability, and cultural significance.