Chicago, 10 June 2013Arper opens a new showroom during the Neocon Fair, which will take place at the Merchandise Building in Chicago from 10 to 12 June 2013.The Chicago showroom opening fits into the company’s global expansion plan that was launched with the opening of showrooms in Milan, Cologne, Stockholm, New York and London, and highlights the company’s strategic approach to the North American market. The goal is affirming Arper’s position in central markets such as the United States and Canada, and, more generally, the Americas, which since 2008 has already benefited from the presence of a subsidiary, Arper USA Inc.The location chosen for the new Chicago showroom is the historic Merchandise Mart, one of world’s largest commercial buildings with an over 372,000 m2 surface. Since 1930 it has been hosting shops, showrooms and permanent and temporary architecture and Interior Design exhibition areas. The Merchandise Mart also hosts Neocon, the most important international event in America in the context of corporate contract, attracting architects, dealers, designers and press from around the world.In fact, during the fair, which takes place from 10 to 12 June, Arper will open the doors of the new exhibition facility, which will house, in about 150 m2, the 2013 product innovations as well as the major collections in the catalogue. The Arper’s exhibition space (no. 339) is hosted on the 3rd floor, one of the most coveted and prestigious floors of the structure.The architectural project of the showroom was developed by the architect Solveig Fernlund, while the layout of the showroom was realized by Studio Lievore Altherr Molina.About the poject, Solveig Fernlund said: I wanted the showroom to feel like a gallery, with the chairs being displayed like sculptures on slightly raised platforms. They are grouped in a diagonal pattern following the shape of the showroom wall at the end of the space. The square platforms form a faceted silver surface reflecting the outline of each chair. I love working with people and companies involved with art and design and the dialogue that is integral to these projects. Arper is an inspiring company with a good eye for clean strong design and I enjoyed the collaboration very much. I think the Arper showroom is very close to my working philosophy and what I try to achieve ”.Arper will also take part in the “Best of Neocon” prize, where it competes with Juno in the “seating category: stacking” and with Aava and Saya, in the “seating category: guest”.The Arper stand is futhermore also competing for the “Booth Design Competition” prize, organized by IIDA/Contract Magazine.Arper ChicagoThe Merchandise Mart222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, Suite 470
Chicago, IL 60654Space #339, Third FloorChicagoMonday – Wednsday9.00–17.00infousa@arper.com