Today, the Jardin des Tuileries in Paris has become home to a new event on the design calendar. Named Matter and Shape, the salon is intended as a platform that represents the ever-blending worlds of fashion and design and brings together a mix of international gallerists and independent designers who have each been selected by curator Dan Thawley.

Given that countless design fairs take place across the world annually, it’s a confident move for Matter and Shape to declare itself as being “the first of its kind”. But you could argue that the proof of this is in its exhibitor list which, for an inaugural edition, is seriously impressive.

The space itself has been envisioned by Willo Perron, who set out to create a bright backdrop that incorporates a cafe, design bookstore and boutique, and a pop-up restaurant from WE ARE ONA. Dotted around the tent, which is emblazoned with the show’s logo on its entrance, are the works of some of today’s most exciting designers – from Sabine Marcelis to NM3.

Matter and Shape embraces the ongoing changes in design and fashion

Many brands have gotten involved too – which is an interesting move, considering Milan Design Week is just around the corner, and the likes of Alessi, Bocci and Flos are typically very involved in the Italian fair. Spanish brand BD Barcelona is even using the platform to launch its first ever project with Ronan Bouroullec. According to the show’s director Matthieu Pinet though, it is a sign of the times – and a reflection on the fact that design is wisening up to the influence of fashion, and vice versa.

With that in mind, it makes sense that the fair is being held during Paris Fashion Week, rather than the landmark design festival Maison&Object, which takes place in the city twice a year, in January and September. And while it’s certain to have ruffled some feathers, for the organisers – they are simply responding to shifts in the industry. Those presenting will benefit from the footfall for neighbouring accessories show Premier Classe, taking place across the same four-day period. “Matter and Shape unites these two creative spheres in a way that has never been done before,” Pinet tells Hypebeast ahead of the opening. “It embraces the ongoing changes in design and fashion, being open to new expressions of these fields in any way possible.”

Ahead of the fair’s opening today, we caught up with Mathieu Pinet, who has worked alongside Thawley and international salon experts WSN to bring it to life. Read on for the full interview.

What prompted you to establish Matter and Shape?

The worlds of fashion and design are increasingly merging blurring the boundaries between these two. This movement, along with recent collaborations between leading fashion houses and top design firms prompted us to create this unique physical event. Matter and Shape unites these creative spheres in a way that has never been done before, aiming to establish a benchmark in the union between these industries in Paris, the heart of creativity.

What sets it apart from other collectible design shows?

Matter and Shape embraces the ongoing changes in design and fashion, being open to new expressions of these fields in any way possible. We aim to reflect a unique offer within the world of home décor and do not limit ourselves to the traditional routes, instead, we are taking advantage of digital platforms to allow the salon to exist all year round. This approach, along with our openness to working with brands that represent our values regardless of their positioning, breaking down existing barriers and welcoming a diverse audience sets us apart.

Why Paris?

Paris, being the capital of creativity, is at the forefront of the fusion between fashion and interiors. It’s here that trends are born, and fashion houses have acted upon this, making it the ideal location for Matter and Shape. Situating the event in the heart of Paris, close to the venues of the largest fashion shows, symbolizes our ambition to be at the centre of creativity.

Why, in your opinion, are these types of shows still important?

These types of shows are important because they reflect and embody the new expressions in the world of design and décor nowadays and also create a space for the community to come together and feel the progression of these industries and wear its being directed.

Finally, if money was no object, what pieces would you be taking home?

The monetary cost doesn’t reflect the quality of an object, and that’s something that we are pushing through MATTER and SHAPE, as we welcome creative designers who offer unique and top-quality design and décor, no matter their status. Getting back to the question… It’s not an easy choice, but if I had to say one product to take home, it would be Spira lamp from Umberto Bellardi Ricci.

Matter and Shape runs from March 1 to 4 at the Jardin des Tuileries in Paris.