Phase 1 of the 57th China International Furniture Fair (CIFF) in Guangzhou concluded on March 21 at the Canton Fair Complex in Pazhou. The scale of the fair was immediately striking. Over 850,000 square meters across 90 halls and more than 5,100 brands made it clear that this was an experience on a different level compared to European fairs. The exhibition felt busy and energetic while remaining surprisingly well-organised.
Walking through the halls, it was clear how much attention went into the layouts. Contemporary designs, upholstered furniture, dining and living collections, home décor, textiles, and outdoor pieces were presented across carefully planned thematic zones. Many booths went beyond simple displays by using creative lighting, material combinations, and spatial arrangements to make the furniture feel part of a complete lifestyle. Line-ups of visitors at specific brands to see the latest designs. The mix of international brands and emerging Chinese designers added variety and kept the experience dynamic throughout.
© Dwight Klecha | InteriorDaily.com
Check out our photo report here.
Highlights and standout experiences
Certain zones immediately caught the eye. The Healthy & Silver Life Living area showcased senior-friendly furniture, assistive devices, and integrated smart care technologies, presenting a thoughtful vision of how design can support an active, independent lifestyle. The Pet Home & Supplies section offered creative solutions for pets, from cleverly designed furniture to smart devices, blending functionality with playful design. Relaxation zones drew attention with massage chairs and functional sofas that combined advanced comfort features with sleek, modern aesthetics. Outdoor furniture areas displayed innovative ways to merge style and practicality for open-air living, from modular seating arrangements to eye-catching material combinations.
Many booths stood out for their inventive approaches. Modular designs allowed furniture to adapt to different spaces, while unusual material pairings, such as oak with marble or fabric with steel, created visual interest. Collaborations with design studios introduced experimental concepts and fresh perspectives, bringing together creativity from multiple disciplines. Lighting was used not only to highlight products but also to define spaces and guide visitors through the exhibition.
© Dwight Klecha | InteriorDaily.com
Check out our photo report here.
Navigating the vast fair required some planning, but escalators, underground corridors, and buggy services made it surprisingly smooth. Even with the sheer size and constant flow of visitors, the exhibition maintained a sense of order and curation. Each hall offered something new to discover, whether it was a cleverly designed sofa, a functional storage solution, or a standout decorative piece. The experience was immersive and engaging, allowing visitors to explore a wide range of products while still feeling connected to the overall flow of the fair.
Looking ahead to phase 2
With Phase 1 finished, attention now turns to Phase 2, starting on March 28. This stage will focus on office, commercial, and hotel furniture, as well as furniture machinery and raw materials. Based on Phase 1, Phase 2 is expected to maintain the same energy, scale, and careful curation that makes CIFF Guangzhou a unique platform for design, innovation, and international collaboration.
CIFF Guangzhou continues to impress not just with its size but with the diversity of design, the creativity on display, and the opportunity to experience forward-looking trends. Phase 1 is complete, and anticipation for what comes next is already high.
© Dwight Klecha | InteriorDaily.com
Photoreport
A photoreport by the InteriorDaily team captures the general first impressions and overall experience of CIFF 2026, highlighting the scale, creativity, and diversity of Phase 1.
Phase 2 of CIFF, focusing on office furniture, commercial furniture, hotel furniture, and machinery & raw materials, will take place from March 28 to 31, 2026.
More information:
CIFF – China International Furniture Fair
China Foreign Trade Centre
No. 380, Yuejiang Zhong Road
Haizhu District, Guangzhou
[email protected]
www.cifffurniturefair.com
+86 20 8912 8026
China
