Getting Smaller
Condos and smaller spaces will get a lot of attention next year. It’s a trend covering every room of the home and every style of furniture. The emphasis is on space saving features as suppliers are building flexibility into their designs while taking a new look at dimensions, proportions and volumes. This philosophy is reflected in minimalist designs, linear volumes, streamlined profiles and gently rounded shapes and the interplay of lines with slender silhouettes and tapered bases in wood furniture.
Saving Space
Multi purpose isn’t ew but in 2009 it is everywhere as mobile storage continues to evolve. Chairs and sofa will turn into something else and move from room to room as small tables sprout handy extensions and sofas and beds reveal hidden storage. Ottomans and accent tables conceal a spare bed while a shelf turns into a table. All sorts of pieces are doing double duty and have been re-invented in multiple ways. We’re mobile and so are our homes, changing our moods and needs.
Contemporary Leads the Pack
Modern and Contemporary styles are front and centre. Both blend beautifully with the multipurpose trend that is transforming our spaces and the way we live. Light, and simple shapes and graphic lines are everywhere. We are choosing furniture that makes the most of our spaces and lifestyles- relaxed and enjoyable.
Wood: dark or natural; rough or silky smooth
Wood is taking off in all directions. Smooth, silky finishes on North Americans most popular material are still in vogue, as are high-gloss finishes. The use of reclaimed or recycled wood is spreading. Wood with a rough hewn texture, aged to imitate the patina that comes with time, is right in step with the rising consumer tide. Stains are still on the dark side (think chocolate, cappuccino and so on), but the return of clear, natural finishes is also being seen.
Fabrics & Leathers: closer to nature
Supple leathers are in favour and microsuede is evolving-now it looks for all the world like leather. Reconstituted or bonded leather is scoring points for not only looking but feeling like the real thing. When it comes to fabrics, textured materials such as cotton and linens are the rage.
Black and White: hotter than ever
Black and white is absolutely everywhere- in leather and fabric upholstery, in the bedroom, living room and dining, in lamps and accessories. These classic colours go with everything and set the seal on room décor. Earth tones remain in the running. Grey is trendy while vivid shots of colour like yellow, green and pink are coming back. Colourful modern flowers and black and white graphics will be a big hit.
The Last Word
The most significant industry trend is meeting consumers needs by helping them customize the furniture they buy. Customization is more than an approach; it’s a new way of buying furniture. A consumer who’s considering a collection has a variety of shapes, dimensions, configurations, colours, finishes and fabrics to chose from. Vendors are creating flexible product-product that reflects individual needs and preferences. That’s the way it works today!
Think Green
Evergreens and leaves tend to last the longest, so if you're looking for an arrangement to get you through the holiday season, go for something with cypress, branches, woody pears and poinsettias. I used to be against the holiday poinsettia, but done en masse in a row, they can look great.
Pick a scheme
You don't have to colour co-ordinate your arrangements to your home, but look around and see what colour you think would look best. Red and green are the perennial favourites, but this year, try something new: stick to a neutral floral palette, say whites, but shake it up with colourful containers that add to your overall holiday decor.
Size does matter
Figure out an appropriate size in relation to your tables and rooms. Multiple arrangements can look fabulous, but if they're too big, they can overpower a space. One suggestion is to have a single large arrangement that can be placed in an entranceway and three smaller arrangements that can be lined up in a row on a table.
Decoration
Keep in mind that your table decor doesn't have to be completely floral. One arrangement set between two vases full of Christmas balls makes a beautiful holiday statement. Also, festive fruit displayed in bowls is a great way to add fresh decor without the expense of freshly cut flowers.
Wood and Veneer
• Wood and veneer are affected by light. For the first 6-8 weeks, when the item is first absorbing the surrounding light, keep the surfaces clear of any objects or decorations. It is possible that uneven light absorption could result in permanent marks and circles. At first, new furniture will also need time to absorb light before it will match the tone of your existing furniture
• Water is only to be used in small quantities and only in the form of a damp cloth. After wiping, always wipe dry with a dry cloth
• No polish or oil treatment of any form should be used
• Wood and veneer are very sensitive to liquids. Therefore, wipe up all spilled liquids immediately
• Always try to remove stains with the mildest cleaning materials
Furniture Textiles
• Protect fabric from direct sunlight to prevent color fading
• Regular cleaning: Vacuum frequently and use Textile Cleaner for general cleaning
• stain-cleaning materials should only be used after they have been tested on a small, less noticeable area to check the effect on the material
Leather
• Protect leather from direct sunlight and sources of heat to prevent color fading
• For general cleaning only use a dry soft clot, if necessary, wipe or lightly rub the whole surface with a clean, soft cloth wrung in soapy water
• If vacuum cleaning, use a soft brush nozzle to avoid scratching the surface
• We recommend using Leather Cleaner for cleaning the sofa/chair 2-3 times a year
• We also recommend using Leather Protection before you start using your new piece of furniture and also after use of Leather Cleaner
Upholstery In General
• If possible, switch the seat and back cushions on a regular basis to extend the life of your cushions and to ensure even wear over the years
• Cushions with a filling of foam/fiber should be shaken regularly to ensure form stability
• Expect a 'breaking in' period for your new sofa. The cushion fillings need time and use to stabilize so your cushions will feel smooth and comfortable
• All leathers and fabrics will stretch during use. To achieve best comfort, covers cannot fit too tightly. Therefore, some creasing may occur, but it adds character to the sofa or chair
• Start out by picking the theme of your table décor - this will be an extension of the theme you have already selected for your home décor christmas decorations.
TIP ...
Don’t worry if your tableware doesn’t all match. Mixing and matching are hot trends right now. Use the pieces that work the best, and then add accents within your chosen theme and colour scheme.
• Plan to have a signature drink and make it an extension of your themed entertaining décor…..super festive!
• Add themed extras such as thank yous, place card holders and party favours to your holiday event.
A FEW EXTRA TIPS ...
• Add Soft ambient light (whether it be candles, dimmed lights, or even holiday mini-lights) are a quick way to add atmosphere to your table.
• Don’t forget the music. The music you play will definitely set the tone for the evening. Do you want your event to be fun-filled and casual, or refined and elegant? Choose your music accordingly.
AND MOST IMPORTANTLY ...
• Enjoy yourself — don’t plan so much that you can’t enjoy the evening yourself. Prepare as much as possible ahead of time.
Getting Smaller
