At a time when contemporary furniture, edgy LED fixtures and minimalistic, modern style has permeated mainstream home decor, there is a still a yearning for traditional design. In fact, all signs point to an even greater demand this year, which is why we’re covering traditional products in our Idea Boards this month.
Modern was it these last handful of years — with the dawn of LED lighting and its capabilities, the influence of Millennials, and the growing popularity of minimalism, pared down but thoughtful interiors made sense, especially as a solution to the economy leaving a lot to be desired post-2009.
What’s causing the swing back to traditional? I see a few drivers.
The first is technology and the way it has permeated our everyday. For instance, formal dining rooms seemed to be a thing of the past, but will they make a comeback? With purposeful “smartphone-free” hours and the renewed importance of quality time with work, school and activities ruling most days, sitting down for a meal with your family in a defined space — while uninterrupted — is now what many Americans crave.
The second is the “green” movement. Sustainability is slowly becoming a high-ranking issue for consumers everywhere, so the idea of hanging onto those oriental rugs from grandma or going thrifting for an antique dresser to spruce up is more appealing. And even though they love them some Mid-Century Modern, for Millennials, there’s a story behind old pieces that they pine for, and it creates the character they want to form their homes around.
And lastly, it’s simply what’s old is new again. Trends have cycles, and traditional is fresh — plus soon to be “in” — once more. It will be reinterpreted in updated ways in products introduced this year, but it will retain the characteristics that define it — rich color, classic patterns (like chinoiserie), stately structure, beautiful embellishment and an overall formal air. Flip to page 18 to get a glimpse of 2018’s traditional.
And, before I go, I must mention: It’s February, which means we have an important deadline coming up.
For eight years now, we’ve been honoring top independent lighting showrooms with our Showroom of the Year Awards, presented in conjunction with Dallas Market Center. We’ll be hosting the ninth ceremony during the summer edition of Lightovation, where one Showroom of the Year will be named in each of three dollar-volume categories (annual revenue under $2 million, revenue under $5 million, and $5 million and over) from a field of five finalists in that category. All finalists are also eligible for three specialty awards: Outstanding Merchandising Display, Exceptional Community Involvement and Social Media Star.
The deadline for nominations and entries is February 28. Finalists will be announced and profiled in our May issue, and winners will be named during a reception on June 20 on the 4th floor of the Dallas Trade Mart. More information will be available in the coming months, but take the first step by nominating or entering today.
