At this Spring’s High Point Market, the halls were busy, the energy was palpable and new product introductions were met with enthusiasm as the home furnishings market scene rebounds after a year of Zoom and virtual introductions. It was nice to be back and see faces, new products and trends.
While supply chain is still presenting challenges, exhibitors we spoke with expect that to right itself in the second half of this year, so as new products emerge, delivery timelines are expected to start normalizing.
COVID has increased demand for home furnishings in general as consumers were hunkered down in their homes and in need of updates. This newfound appreciation of the homefront looks likely to continue and that seemed to drive evolving trends focused on natural materials, warmer colors and textures that embodied comfort.
Of course, home furnishings trends are as wide-ranging as there are consumers with different tastes. These, however, are a few we spotted again and again.
Chipped from the Rock
From alabaster shades on light fixtures to agate, crystal and stone elements, rocky appeal has been finding its way into home decor for some time now. This natural trend seemed even more pervasive last week as that lean toward outdoor elements in home decor continues to grow.
All the Feels
Comfort is key in the age of COVID. That was noticeable across showrooms at High Point Market. In upholstery, we saw lots of nubby materials, such as boucles, that spoke to that Hygge vibe of cozy and warmth. Texture also added interest in case goods where texture rather than color told the story. Painted texture was seen throughout market as well, on casegoods and accessories we saw painted seagrass and linens gracing credenzas, nightstands and more.
Nature’s Bounty
Rattans, weaves, bamboo, seagrass and more continue to grace furniture — indoors and out — bringing nature to the forefront in furniture, lighting and accessories. Once again, as we stayed close to home, influences from nature in home design have been top of mind for consumers and designers. Green has seen a resurgence as well, with yellower tones lifted from nature, such as grass and foliage. From introductions we’ve seen in High Point, this isn’t shifting anytime soon.
Spicy Tones
From a color perspective, it’s likely gray isn’t going away. However, it did have some competition at market, with warmer tones, browns, and spicier colors popping up more and more. We noticed a range of colors from soft neutral beiges to caramels and medium-tone browns to spicier rusts, oranges and deep reds. According to several sources at High Point Market, we should be keeping an eye on reds, as shades of that color are primed for a comeback too.
A Nod to Denim
Blue never goes out of style. Ever. It’s a classic and, as such, is a color that speaks to so many in so many ways. We will always find blues in all areas of the home. And while blue will always be part of the home’s color spectrum, the palette does vary from time to time. At this month’s High Point Market, we noticed a trend toward indigo blues, a medium hue that depicts comfort, blue jeans and warmth. Other blues were in abundance as well, but indigo was a standout.
Perch
As upholstery goes, comfort is job number one. In sofas and chairs, we see all types of styles that span the spectrum from traditional to modern to casual design. Channeled, tufted, tight backs and pillowed backs, you can find all of these styles walking from showroom to showroom. One trend we saw in upholstery this market were wide track arms. These 11-inch wide flat sofa and chair arms were perfect as additional seating, for laying down a cell phone or even a coaster with a drink. While a room needs the space to incorporate an additional two feet of sofa or chair, the casual versatility of the style seems to have appealed to manufacturers and we’re guessing eventually consumers.
