What’s Trending in Home Furnishings?

Even though the pandemic created a schedule change for the High Point Spring 2021 Spring Furnishings Market from its typical April to June, manufacturers still had plenty of new and fresh products to showcase to attendees. Yes, the supply chain and shipping interruptions are still affecting the production for certain furniture categories and vendors, but overall the “catch-up” to pre-pandemic delivery norms is showing some gradual signs of recovery.

As with any of the previous years’ markets, certain style trends appear, usually resulting from current cultural, social, or economic events of the world. Of course, we know the major influencer of recent has been the focus on the home as a safe place to live, and now work due to the year of COVID. Many of the themes and products featured below from the 2021 Spring Market draw testament to the latest evolvement of consumers’ behaviors impacted by last year’s changed environments.

NATURAL DESIRES:

A need to be closer to the nurturing effects of nature and a throwback from the ’70s, globally-inspired textures of rattan, cane, jute, and rope, and woven grasses took the stage in various categories across the board from furniture to lighting to wallcoverings.

(Photos from top left to bottom right: Long Key Bed by Universal Furniture, Jazzy Jute Wallcovering by Phillip Jeffries, Wickham Pendant by Cyan Design, Tara Occasional Chair by Dovetail Furniture & Designs, and Brady Side Table by Beyond Borders Imports. Top post photo is the Karina Collection from Insideout Performance Fabrics.)

Another nod to nature showed up in a soothing color palette that takes its cues from Mother Earth.

Soft watercolor blues, emerald greens, and neutrals that emanate the seas, foliage, sands, rocks, and precious stones found around us; again used in textural contrasts to add visual excitement and appeal.

(Photos from top left to bottom right: Bunched Cocktail Table by Chelsea House, Bumpy Collection Vase by EurDecor, Boen Bar Cart by Chelsea House, Adrian Table Lamp by Flow Decor, and Arte Collection Rug by Surya)

COMFORT CRAZE:

Many upholstery manufacturers dialed in on the customer demand for comfortable, multi-component seating and put the infamous sectional sofa back in the spotlight. They were fabricated with deep cushions, in soft, natural textiles such as washed linens, cotton, and denim looks, as well as luxurious boucles, velvets, and chenilles.

444 Sectional by Burton James

Other seating silhouettes conveyed the pleasing contour of the curve with sculptured frames and arms, again in cozy, neutral fabrics that soothe both eye and body. Accessorizing pillows, rugs, and ottomans also carry this theme of relaxing textures and shapes.

ARTISTIC APPEAL:

When it came to case goods, the market did not disappoint. Again, texture was the key trend here but showcased in new ways of utilizing material combinations and dimensions to create unique artisanal pieces.

Mixtures of metals with stone, glass, and wood using fretwork or scrollwork patterns to create visual interest. Lighter wood tones with graphic carved and painted surfaces produced a hand-crafted vibe to more utilitarian-type furnishings.

(Photos from top left to bottom right: Infinite Spiral Cabinet by John-Richard, Mesa End Table by Sarreid, and Citra Console Table by Indo Puri)

Mixed materials and contrast finishes and textures were also used in various light fixture types, creating focal points of beauty for any room. Antique brass finishes are now in matte, cooler tones with black accents. Etched graphics on smooth ceramics enhance a table lamp’s visual attraction. A new interest in cluster lights has produced pendants in an artisanal fashion with sculptured glass segments that reflect the functional light source.

(Photos from top left to bottom right: Artemis Pendant by Cyan Design, Zelda Table Lamp by Currey & Co, and Elevate Pendant by Beacon Lighting)

These and other trends such as burled woods, leathers with metals, asymmetry in shapes, and large-scale artwork were evident at this spring’s market. The new furnishing introductions that can provide the consumer with the opportunity to create personal, unique, and comfortable spaces will most likely be in high demand, as well as those items that provide multi-functionality. Interest in making our homes the heartbeat of our lives will keep these style trends focused on supporting our journey to get there!