This summer I have been writing my trends report on meetings and events for the time to come. All about new and exciting things and a change of an era, but also about a mix of generations and the keeping of good and valuable things. Because it is surprising how old favorites shine in a new light when put in a different context. A spoken word, a touch, a room. New connections.
This weekend I have been helping my parents clear part of the interior of a holiday house they have used for 40 years. They are in a fortunate position; the buyer of the house is happy to use most things in it, and all they have to do is select the items they want to keep and take them home. The things that are staying will see a new use, new eyes, new ideas, and will be joined by other stuff.
See where I am going with this? Indeed, a small step from interior decoration to meeting design J .
I like that idea, the combination of old and new things that make up a household. Or a conference. Or a tradeshow. A mix that shows a personal signature, ultimately unique. Never brand new all at once and never static, always with the main objective of its users in mind.
Adding furniture, changing color, re-using rooms. And occasionally a new roof or a new owner. Stuff that one generation throws out, is the cherished antique of another. The mix of it all makes it interesting! Plus a fresh pair of eyes.
So are there any things from that old house coming home with me? Sure. Meet my new pepper and salt buddies: from kitchen cupboard to conversation piece….I bet THEY would work wonders during a conference networking break !
