The replica furniture debate shows no signs of slowing down, encouraging those of us who sit on the fence (myself included), to think a little more about which camp they sit it. Are we adamantly against the idea of replicas or are we completely OK with this seemingly increasing design trend?
I’m still undecided. Even after writing about this topic on the blog before.
A new war on replica furniture by four iconic local brands might help us all make up our minds.
Arthur G, Euroluce, Workshopped and Luxmy Furniture have all joined forces, taking a stance against replicas through a thought-provoking art installation. It was conceptualised and designed by Design by Toko as part of Sydney InDesign 2015. An undeniable local attraction in Sydney’s Surry Hills, it’s certainly got people talking.
Under the banner ‘Authentic’, the installation aims to make the public more aware of the onslaught of designer copies, particularly those duplicated from leading design houses, whose pieces are mass produced in countries like China before being sold in local replica stores.
“It takes thousands of dollars and a huge amount of creativity and hard work to produce original design,” says Priyanka Rao of Luxmy Design. “It is heartbreaking to see works from our collection and fellow local businesses ruthlessly ripped off with no respect for the designer or manufacturer involved in bringing that product to life”.
John Aiello from Eurolace says that the debate is about more than just the inferior quality of replicas, but also about loss of jobs, damage of designer credibility and and undermining of the market for the maker.
“If this plagiarism continues to grow, [we] may eventually see some of these authentic brands pull out of Australia,” he said.
The Hill Street precinct will be open to the public as part of Sydney InDesign from Thursday 13 to Sunday 23 August 2015. For further information on Sydney InDesign visit sydneyindesign.com.au
>>> Where do you sit on the replica furniture debate – and has this article changed your mind? Drop a comment below and let’s talk it out.
I purchased Replica Philippe Stark stools and don’t regret it. I do my best to purchase original where I can but I simply don’t have the finances and it is hard to justify some of the price tags. The stools I bought were still expensive as it was! I think if a company is not branding them replica or recognising they are using someone elses design then that stinks but this same argument can be taken to fashion as well.
You’re right Chon; I think transparency is key here. That’s when I start getting mad; when consumers don’t realise they’re buying replica because it’s being withheld from them.
There is so much talent in design, especially in Australia home furnishings. I don’t have the finances to buy many original pieces at the moment, I work two jobs and study and can only afford a few really nice things a year. I’ve not yet purchased any replica pieces, but I may if I found/saw something I quite liked and wouldn’t be able to buy otherwise. In fact, I would be more inclined to purchase a home design copy than a fashion clothing copy. Isn’t that odd?
I hear ya Tenille. I too am on a budget and always have been. I think there is room for everyone to play here. People who appreciate the originals can buy them and love them, and those who can’t can get a cheaper alternative. If it doesn’t last as long, I’m fine with that; I understand that a replica might be slightly inferior.