Maison&Objet 2026: The Defining Moments

With the stands dismantled and the city returning to its rhythm,  we’ve been reflecting on our time on the ground at Maison&Objet January 2026 and seeing it for what it was: an edition defined by clarity rather than excess, and by moments that revealed a broader shift within design.

Stepping into Maison&Objet this January was like entering a world where emotion fuels meaning, and meaning fuels business opportunities. Bringing together 2,294 brands from 148 countries, including 543 new exhibitors, the fair unfolded as a 360° panorama of creativity that honoured both past traditions and future possibilities. With nearly 67,286 visitors, the event once again confirmed the remarkable global appeal and quality of its international audience. Notably, markets such as Italy, Belgium and Spain showed continued growth.

At the heart of Maison&Objet’s DNA lies a commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and contemporary design, a story woven alongside its long-standing shareholder, Ateliers d’Art de France. This edition marked a deliberate return to these fundamentals, with Fine Craft – métiers d’art – taking centre stage. The theme Past Reveals Future echoed throughout, inspired exhibitors and visitors alike to reflect on the dialogue between heritage and innovation.

Philippe Delhomme, Chairman of the Executive Board of SAFI, the fair’s organiser, summed it up perfectly: “What struck me most during this January session was the resurgence of a powerful sense of emotion from the moment you entered the fair, driven by ambitious and unapologetic scenography, faithful to Maison&Objet’s DNA. This energy is owed as much to the commitment of our teams as to that of the exhibitors, who chose to fully invest in their stands to create genuine experiences. Many visitors spoke to me about this rediscovered ‘wow’ effect, which encourages visitors to slow down, observe, and let themselves be surprised. This January 2026 edition confirms that Maison&Objet remains a place where emotion gives meaning, and where meaning fuels business opportunities.”

A Journey Through Craft and Innovation

Maison&Objet was carefully organised into six sectors, from Signature & Projects to Fine Craft, Fragrance & Wellness, Gift & Play, Decor & Design, and Fashion & Accessories. Spanning seven halls, the fair offered a rich mosaic of ideas, all framed by the theme Past Reveals Future – a timeless concept at the crossroads of trends and imagination.

Visitors were invited on a sensory journey with installations by emerging and established talents. Interior architect Rudy Guénaire curated What’s New? In Hospitality, Elizabeth Leriche guided visitors through What’s New? In Decor, while François Delclaux unveiled insights in What’s New? In Retail.

Spotlight on Designer of the Year: Harry Nuriev

One of the highlights was the installation by 2026 Designer of the Year, Harry Nuriev. His space embodied the spirit of Transformism, the manifesto that guides his work. With a futuristic silver patina, the design was both bold and reflective.

Spaces That Inspire Reflection

The Curatio Village returned for a second edition, curated by Thomas Haarmann, presenting 60 pieces of sensitive design in harmonious dialogue. Atelier highlights such as In Materia by Elizabeth Leriche reimagined the relationship with objects through touch and materiality, while master coppersmith Elie Hirsch showcased his craftsmanship at the entrance to Hall 5A.

Maison&Objet also debuted the Manufactures d’Excellence village, spotlighting 20 exceptional French heritage companies. In the Gift & Play sector, Pet Square made its entrance, while outdoor living was elevated through a curated selection of 50 international brands.

More Than a Fair: A Global Creative Ecosystem

Maison&Objet extends well beyond the exhibition halls. Maison&Objet In The City featured nearly 150 curated Parisian venues, while The Talks programme brought together leading figures including Cédric Klapisch, Yves Béhar, Maxime d’Angeac and Luca Pronzato across 27 expert-led sessions. Women&Design by Maison&Objet gathered the creative community for an exclusive dinner at Hôtel de Crillon, celebrating bold female visions in design alongside supportive male allies.

The Business of Meaningful Design

This edition of Maison&Objet was not only a creative showcase but also a vital business platform. Vincent Lhoste, CEO of SAFI, highlighted the event’s impact: “This edition of Maison&Objet confirms more than ever its status as a leading international business platform… Maison&Objet is a fair where meetings turn into opportunities and orders: this is where business gets done.”

The Next Chapter

Maison&Objet is preparing for its next chapter. The September 2026 edition will take place from 10-14 September, with key announcements set to be unveiled at a press conference in Paris this month. With Vincent Lhoste as CEO of SAFI, the fair stands poised to evolve while remaining anchored in the values that have defined it for over three decades.

As the design world looks ahead, Maison&Objet remains a place where past and future converge, where emotion and business align, and where creativity continues to inspire and transform.

Photography: Anne Emmanuelle Thion