First-rate supporting program makes DOMOTEX the No. 1 event for the floor coverings industry

The show's array of top-notch exhibits, special displays, lectures and specialist events generated lots of buzz, providing visitors with an exciting mix of information and inspiration

Visitors were full of praise for the Carpet Design Awards for innovative design, creativity and quality in the handmade carpet segment. The exhibition of the 30 short-listed pieces was a big crowd magnet, and the awards ceremony in Hall 15 on Sunday, 14 January, was well-attended by international trade visitors. All in all, the CDA drew 140 entries in ten categories, more than twice the number received at the event's premiere in 2005. There was an extra category, a special "Visitors' Prize", where the visiting public was able to pick its own favorite rug from among the finalists. The award this time went to the Greek carpet firm Pantelis Pashalidis for its "Checkers" rug.

There was likewise no shortage of excitement at the European Team Floorlaying Competition. The contest of skill and workmanship was won by the Italian team, whose consummate skill and speed put it ahead of its competitors from the Austria, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

The other special events included the DOMOTEX Workshop, with its enriching live demonstrations, and the many informative lectures and talks at the Skilled Trades Forum, which was extremely well-received by trade visitors.
The comprehensive supporting program also included the exhibitor initiatives Loom Lounge and floorforum, the latter featuring a modern ensemble of carpets and textile floor coverings by renowned designer Ulf Moritz. The trend-setting Moritz creations on show were: "poetic TRADITION", "natural ROMANTIC", "chic FRIVOLITY" and "cosmic LOUNGING".