05 January 2005 The start of the year is the busy season in the modern carpet market, punctuated by four major international fairs: Heimtex in Frankfurt (12 – 15 January), Domotex in Hanover (15 – 18 January), Atlanta Area Rug Market (20 – 23 January) and Surfaces in Las Vegas (26 – 28 January). These large and busy fairs feed the European and American retail markets for the year ahead.
These are the most important opportunity for the modern carpet producers to present their new lines to potential buyers. In our review of the fairs last year, some clear leaders in terms of technical and design innovation emerged within the contemporary and traditional carpet fields: Zoë Luyendijik's highly original 'artistic' designs shown by Jan Kath and Akhavan-Farshtchi/Looms of Persia's take on the classic Serafian design spring to mind.
What to expect this year? Many companies have a 'cloak and dagger' approach to their new lines, shielding them from potential imitators until the opening of the fairs. But to give you a taster, here are a few examples of what will be introduced onto the market by the some of the market leaders in 2005.
From Odegard, New York (exhibiting at Domotex and Atlanta), look out for their new take on a classic Odegard design from the Miami collection. They have introduced new colourways including Nima Dusk III with its warming hues of reds and oranges, inspired by Florida's tropical landscape. It will be available in both standard and custom-made sizes, and is made from 100% Himalayan wool.
Zollanvari is best known for their Persian gabbehs made in a range of weave qualities. For 2005, they will presenting a new line of Kashkuli carpets at Heimtex and Domotex. Creating dramatic displays is a great strength of Zollanvari's (see HALI 133 pp.141-145) and no doubt there will find a fresh way to wow potential buyers in 2005.
Relative newcomers to Domotex are the Dutch company I.C.E. They import carpets from Iran, Afghanistan, India and Morocco but also have their own workshops in Nepal and in northwest Afghanistan. The fruits of their production will be showcased this year, including a new range of kilims and Nepalese carpets.
Renaissance Carpets from New York have cornered the market for Aubusson and Savonnerie inspired carpets and tapestries based on original cartoons. Their perfectionism and high standards of production make their position at the top well deserved – their range has been broadened further for Domotex/Atlanta 2005 and will include this Louis XIV epoch Savonnerie design. | 
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