Quiet Luxury at idd cologne

Behind the buzzword lies an attitude that furniture lovers will easily recognise: investing in a well-made favourite piece is worth it—especially when it’s something we live with and enjoy every day. In this sense, Quiet Luxury also offers a sustainable alternative to fast furniture, whose quickly produced designs tend to wear out just as fast.

Feeling inspired? You can experience this elegant new trend in person at idd cologne, taking place for the first time as an urban-only format from 26–29 October in the heart of Cologne.

In this article, we take a closer look at the key factors that define the phenomenon of Quiet Luxury.

Perhaps the most important factor in Quiet Luxury is high-quality craftsmanship. It ensures not only longevity but, indirectly, sustainability as well. As the saying goes: “Buy well, buy once.”
For those who still value individuality, custom-made furniture offers the perfect solution. One example is the furniture manufacturer Kettnaker, which has been crafting modular furniture in Dürmentingen, in the Swabian region of Germany, for over 150 years.

What the tailored trench coat or classic leather loafers are to fashion, the design classic is to the world of interiors. There’s a reason why we still admire the Bauhaus pieces or the furniture by Charlotte Perriand and Le Corbusier today: even a century on, they continue to embody a sense of modern timelessness.

This also applies to designs whose industrial-modernist heritage isn’t immediately visible. In 2024, for instance, the iconic Café Chair No. 214 by Thonet received the German Federal Ecodesign Award in the category “Timeless Design.” A true classic, it marks the beginning of modern furniture design and continues to inspire curved silhouettes to this day. Even now, it looks perfectly at home around a kitchen or dining table – a smart investment for design lovers who value durability and enduring style.

Just like in fashion, natural materials age best in interiors. You can see this in wooden tables and chairs or sofas upholstered in wool or leather, which develop a rich patina over years of use.

If you don’t want to wait for the patina to form naturally, vintage furniture is another option. For example, two years ago the manufacturer COR launched the CORever program, taking back worn pieces and lovingly restoring them. The refurbished furniture is now available through select retailers, giving classic designs a new lease on life.

Alongside high-quality craftsmanship and durable materials, colour is another key factor in Quiet Luxury. Soothing neutrals—like grey, white, beige, brown, and other understated tones—take centre stage. The idea is simple: these shades last longer than bold, trendy colours, so they don’t need to be swapped out every season.

If you still want to incorporate your favourite hues, a statement piece such as a rug can easily add a pop of colour and become an eye-catching focal point in your interior.

What really matters in Quiet Luxury is longevity, the way materials age, and high-quality craftsmanship. If you’re unsure about an investment, ask yourself: “Will I be able to pass this piece on one day?” If the answer is yes, you’re on the right track!

Feeling inspired to fill your home with timeless classics? Manufacturers like Bielefelder Werkstätten, COR, Kettnaker, and Thonet will be showcased live at idd cologne in Cologne from 26–29 October 2025.