Top Trends for 2009

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!