Photography by: Vladimir Vallejos
Formex January 2026 marked a strong and confident start to the year for the Nordic interior design and lifestyle industry. Held in Stockholm at Stockholmsmässan from January 20 to 22, the fair once again positioned itself as a key meeting point for professionals working within interiors, design, décor, and retail.
The January edition welcomed thousands of visitors and a broad range of exhibitors, reflecting renewed optimism across the sector. Buyers, designers, stylists, producers, and retailers gathered to discover new collections, place orders, and reconnect face to face after a period marked by cautious market conditions. The overall mood was forward-looking, with a clear sense that the industry is moving ahead with confidence and creativity.
One of the most talked-about elements of Formex January 2026 was the entrance installation, which set a playful and celebratory tone from the very first step inside the fair. Bold colors, sculptural forms, and imaginative storytelling created an inviting atmosphere and highlighted Formex’s role as not only a trade platform, but also a source of inspiration.
Beyond the exhibition stands, Formex delivered a rich program of talks, trend presentations, and curated experiences. Visitors gained insights into upcoming spring and summer trends, with a strong focus on color, tactility, and emotional design. Sustainability remained a central theme throughout the fair, addressed both in exhibitions and guided walks that explored how responsible choices can be translated into real products, materials, and business models.
Emerging designers were given a prominent platform through the Design Talents area, where new voices and experimental ideas met established industry players. This space continues to be an important bridge between creativity and commerce, allowing young designers to gain visibility, contacts, and opportunities within the Nordic and international market.
Formex January 2026 once again proved its relevance as a professional marketplace and creative hub. By combining business opportunities with inspiration, trend intelligence, and meaningful conversations around sustainability, the fair reaffirmed its role as a cornerstone event for the interior and lifestyle industry in Scandinavia and beyond.
