Daytime, outside image of Interior 08, Kortrijk Belgium, green grass, large brown sculpture in forefront, white marque tent, white flag poles with flying flags, visitors, blue cloudy sky
(Image credit: TBC)

Every two years the small city of Kortrijk in Belgium is briefly put on the world map when an international crowd descends on the town for Interieur, the international design fair.

A semi-circular wall of stools balanced on top of one another

(Image credit: TBC)

Given most of the bigger brands have already launched their new products in Milan, it’s a moment for the smaller companies to shine, and they all try to outdo each other in building the most outrageous installations.

But the real charm of Interieur lies in its small-town approach: for 10 days the entire city revolves around the biennale, with events taking place anywhere and everywhere, inside and outside of the main exhibition hall. The whole city gets involved and everyone is very proud of what it achieves. Jaime Hayon, this year’s guest of honour, was paraded around the halls accompanied by the mayor and a marching band on the opening day like a prize pony.

Rosa Bertoli was born in Udine, Italy, and now lives in London. Since 2014, she has been the Design Editor of Wallpaper*, where she oversees design content for the print and online editions, as well as special editorial projects. Through her role at Wallpaper*, she has written extensively about all areas of design. Rosa has been speaker and moderator for various design talks and conferences including London Craft Week, Maison & Objet, The Italian Cultural Institute (London), Clippings, Zaha Hadid Design, Kartell and Frieze Art Fair. Rosa has been on judging panels for the Chart Architecture Award, the Dutch Design Awards and the DesignGuild Marks. She has written for numerous English and Italian language publications, and worked as a content and communication consultant for fashion and design brands.