M.E. asks designer Richard Lampert about their presence at the upcoming Salone del Mobile. Find them at the Fair in Hall 12, Stand E 07.

What have you been working on recently? Would you be able to give us any sneak previews of new projects you might be showing at Milan this year?

We will show a new chair (above) and some of our other products in "new dresses".

What does exhibiting at the Salone del Mobile mean for you? How would you describe the positives (and maybe negatives?) of the experience?

The Milan Fair gives us the chance to meet clients on a broader base, internationally.

We're sorry, it has to be asked - How do you think the current economic situation will affect the climate in the design world, and particularly this year's Milan Salone? Do you foresee any positive or negative knock on effects or adaptations that might happen as a result?

The current climate effects everybody. The question is what you do about it and which markets you are working in. Our small company with niche products has had a 2 digit growth every year. The first quarter of this year, our growth has gone down to a bit less than 10%.

Do you have any predictions for trends in design this year?

Design Trends? Every good company has its own characteristics. Stay with what you know you are good at. And try do do real good products; the classics of tomorrow. A big challenge.

Is there anything you're especially looking forward to at this year's Salone? Can you let us in on the stands you'll be checking out for yourself/selves or new names to watch?

As usual, I will check every aisle to get inspired and see what my collegues are doing.

And of course, its not all work! Where do you think this year's best Salone party will be? we are manufacturers and exhibit in hall 12, stand E 07

Unpredictable. I' ll tell you afterwards...