Philippe Kiwiz knows the Swiss event scene like no other. As the creative mind behind NEUERDINGS, he has been ensuring that events are not only organized but also staged for decades. His work goes far beyond decoration - it's about atmosphere, emotions and bringing spaces to life.
In this interview, Philippe reveals what inspires him, why chaos is sometimes his best friend and what event organizers should avoid at all costs if they want to get creative themselves. He provides humorous and honest insights into his collaboration with JED Events, talks about unforgettable projects such as the pop-up restaurant "Only Temporary" and explains why sustainability is no longer negotiable in event design.
Philippe, let's get straight to the most important question: Do you actually have everything perfectly decorated at home too, or is it creative chaos at the Kiwiz'?
Yes, everything is lovingly decorated at our house, but not by me, but by my wife Claudia.
NEUERDINGS has been a household name in the event industry for decades. What does your family think you do all day? And how do you explain your work to your grandmother?
I decorated my grandmother's birthday 10 years ago and let her ride an elephant as the Queen of Africa. So she knows exactly what I do. And if someone in the family has a crisis of the senses, they are always in very good hands with me - we always have work to do.
We know you as a real creative mind. But let's be honest: is there a decoration concept that you just can't see anymore because it's requested too often?
I'm always happy when the Christmas season is over and the Christmas trees end up with the elephants at the zoo.
You have already equipped countless events with NEUERDINGS. Is there a moment when everything really went wrong - and how did you save the day?
Yes, we've had that too: the ordered goods didn't arrive at the event on time and you have to convince the customer that the alternative is just as brilliant.
We set up the pop-up restaurant 'Only Temporary' together during the interim use of the JED. When you think about this project, what was the craziest request you ever had to make for a decoration?
The stage had to be rollable and 4 meters high at the same time. That was a challenge that didn't quite work out in the end because it was too heavy.
Do you have an insider tip for event organizers who think: 'Decoration? Oh, we'll do that ourselves somehow! What should they definitely not do?"
Calculating too few hours for implementation - this is always underestimated.
We've been working together for so long that it's almost like a marriage. What is your favorite moment when you work at an event at JED? And is there anything you particularly appreciate - or secretly curse - about us?
I love that we always get to have lunch at Eve's Kitchen during set-up, because it's just super tasty. And I enjoy saying hello to everyone and having a chat. What I sometimes get annoyed about are the last-minute phone calls when something is still needed 5 hours before the event.
As they say, the best relationships sometimes have friction. If you had to give us honest feedback: Is there anything we could do better to make your job at our events even easier?
The briefings: if you already have a direction from the client to present it pictorially. That would certainly be helpful.
Philippe, you are the king of event decoration. What is the ultimate decoration faux pas that you never want to see at an event?
Now you're exaggerating! There's nothing I haven't seen yet and I hope to see many more funny things to talk about in the scene.
What do you think: are the trends of today - such as sustainability or minimalist concepts - really sustainable, or will we see pompous productions like in the 90s again in ten years' time?
Yes, I think it will all repeat itself. It's like fashion - the 90s are also in again.
Technology is becoming increasingly important, even in decoration. Do you think we will soon see digital installations rather than real flowers and fabrics? And what would be the absolute nightmare for you: an event without physical decoration?
No, that already exists, but we will always do decorations with fabrics, as it simply looks more valuable than just digital.
You have certainly experienced countless highlights in your career. But is there a moment that you are particularly proud of because you thought: "Yes, that's exactly why I do this job."
The best moments are when guests enter the room with shining eyes. Today, a guest said to me without knowing who I was: "Wow, do you see how beautifully this is decorated? I still thought at home that I was overdressed for this occasion, but it all fits." She laughed and ran off.
If you had the opportunity to decorate an event without any budget limits or restrictions - no matter where or how - what would you do?
I would love to build a huge stage like the one at Tomorrowland - with all the trimmings.
Neuerdings is known for its huge collection of decorations. Is there a favorite piece that has a special history - or maybe something you secretly want to keep for yourself?
My favorite piece is our Oldsmobile NY Police Car.
Finally, a slightly different question: what decorating fail from your career still makes you laugh today - and what have you learned from it?
When you're in the thick of it, they're really bad - with icy entrances and cars getting stuck in Paul Accola's uncle's garden. Years later, however, these are the best stories that can fill an entire evening.
