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!

Festive Florals

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.

Care For Your Furniture

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

Holiday Table Setting Ideas

• 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.

October 2008

With fall's warm breezes and clear blue skies, entertaining takes on a whole new look ...

A.

A twig table runner is a casual but interesting alternative to placemats. For an instant place setting, attach a card to a mini pumpkin with rugged twine.

B.

Roll up flatware in seasonal colored napkins tied with twine.

C.

It's easy to maintain a tidy table top by displaying seasonal goodies in hurricanes. Choose combinations of mini pumpkins, pomegranates and nuts, varying the vessel sizes for a dynamic grouping.

D.

Create a warm atmosphere with a grouping of these seasonal candle holders. Fill hollowed out mini pumpkins with floral foam, arranged berries and greenery around the outside, then insert tapers directly into the centre.

E.

When guests arrive, they will love the floral arrangement at your front entrance, either inside or out! Pumpkins make wonderful vessels for fall arrangements. Line a hollowed out pumpkin with a plastic bag before inserting floral foam so that the arrangement lasts longer.

2009 Colour Trends

2009 Hot Colour Trends for Fabrics and Interiors

The Land of Green
Green green green ... whether taking the colour literally or for the “eco-consciousness” that it represents these days, nothing is more powerful that the word “green”. Green creates a feeling of freshness, clarity and aliveness, but when combined with any of the popular clear blues that are prevalent, a feeling of serene peace and the open air is created giving a connection to the outdoors

Where to use it:
Greens are a great choice for kitchens (giving a cooling effect on the hottest room of the house), bathrooms (representing freshness), laundry rooms (adding to clean), and family rooms (offering a feeling of sanctuary).

The new neutrals
The “neutrals” are morphing into a new direction…chalky whites, misty grays, and blue toned muted slates are showing up with combinations of different textures, creating a new sense of lightness and depth. This sophisticated palette conjures up feelings of hope and possibility, with an almost ethereal quality. These shades layered together with a mix of eclectic furnishings, including some modern touches, give an effect of irresistible enlightenment.

Where to use it:
These calming and interesting shades are wonderful for bedrooms (creating a dream like effect), bathrooms (representing hygienic simplicity), kitchens (combining with great stainless appliances gives a crisp worldly look), and living rooms (giving a sense of luminosity and elegance).

Black and white
The still popular combination creates a sense of drama and sophistication in many interiors. The dichotomy of the pureness of white and the formality of black creates a strong energy. The striking look often is accompanied by a jolt of strong colour. The look is often used in modern and or minimalist interiors and is seen with opulent mirrors and accessories.

Where to use it:
This theatrical combination is ideal in kitchens (clearly classic), bathrooms (keeping it pure and simple, and living rooms (encouraging a lively backdrop for conversation and activity).

Rich Brights
Rich reds, lively oranges , bright greens, warm browns and golden yellows are showing up in droves. The infatuation with the warmth and richness of well-rounded colours is in response to the overwhelming existence of technology in our everyday lives….

Where to use it:
These lively shades are perfect for kitchens and dining rooms (stimulating the appetite), as well as living rooms (providing and embracing feeling).

Sitting Pretty

A parking spot for watching TV or a perch for sipping cocktails? A well designed sofa works with your life and sets the tone for the room.

The sofa is usually the dominant piece of furniture in your living room. It's probably the largest piece and will be the focal point for seating. Selecting the right sofa is crucial to a comfortable, stylish room that people will enjoy gathering in. It can be confusing, however, because there are so many styles, textures and sizes available. To make it easier, break down the selection criteria into individual components so that you won't leave anything to chance.

Size
Yes, size matters. It's essential to find a sofa that fits comfortably into the room without overpowering it, yet isn't so small that it feels lost, hanging in the space. Be sure to measure the various locations you're considering - our eye often fools us into thinking our room is larger than it is, and sofas will appear smaller than they really are in the cavernous dimensions of a furniture showroom. Measure! Also think about what you want - an oversized sofa that will envelope you and two or three others, or a compact, cozy loveseat for snuggling?
Also consider the size of the sofa itself – are you looking for a traditional three-person seating arrangement or do you want a sectional? Sectionals offer you versatility - many have a chaise end for lounging and you can rearrange the pieces to fit quickly change the look of the room. A loveseat is ideal for tight spaces, although it will generally hold only two people comfortably.

Style
Classic, contemporary, post-modern and Victorian, the possibilities are endless. Consider the statement you want to make with the sofa. Should it be a relatively neutral backdrop for favorite accent pieces in the room or do you want the sofa itself to make a bold statement? There are dozens of styles to choose from. Generally, the firmer the seat and back, the more formal or modern it will look. Country style and casual sofas will have a more over-stuffed, soft appearance.
Modern sofas run the gamut and often have unexpected elements to give them unique personality and flair. Clean lines and less clutter are common features. You'll also find many modern sofas that are versatile - unusual shapes, spare lines and arms that are metal or no arms at all.
Generally, traditional and Victorian sofas will have a tight, upholstered back (no separate back cushions) and very firm seats. The Victorian or romantic pieces are also often tufted for added interest.
Transitional and casual sofas combine comfort with beauty. You'll find that many of these have either loose backs with separate, unattached back pillows that are shaped to fit, or attached backs with the pillows attached to the upholstered back permanently. You'll also find many that feature a scatter back, where there are more back cushions than seat cushions, usually smaller square ones.

Function
Don't forget about function in the pursuit of the perfect style. Keep in mind what you're going to be using the sofa for - will it be in a formal living room where most people will be sitting attentively, or will there be people lounging on it while watching television? If you'll be doing a lot of reading in it, for instance, you'll want to make sure it has comfortable arms. Do you want something you can take the occasional nap on? Take the time to sit and test the sofas you're considering before you buy.

Construction
This is the most important part of the sofa, yet most people don't take the time to really check out the construction. The frame is key to the comfort, stability and longevity of a good sofa. It might be made of solid wood, engineered wood or steel and the type of construction determines the price range of the sofa. When purchasing a sofa, you should always buy the best possible frame construction that you can afford.
The best frames are of kiln-dried hardwoods to give proper support and prevent warping or cracking. Oak, maple and poplar are excellent choices; try to avoid pines and soft woods. The framing pieces should be at least one inch thick and screwed together, not nailed. You can also find very good frames made from engineered or composite woods, but be careful to ask about their manufacturing process. While very strong and durable, some composite woods are treated with toxic sealants to prevent potential water damage. Avoid particle board frames - they aren't strong and tend to warp.
Steel frames are becoming increasingly popular because they are lightweight and, in some modern styles, can actually be incorporated into the visual appeal of the furniture. These are extremely durable and are often used for sofas with moving parts such as sofas with built-in recliner sections and sofa beds.
There are various spring, webbing and support systems available on the market. They each come with their own pros and cons. It's important to ask questions and be informed on what you're bringing into your space.

Composition
The composition of the sofa refers to the stuffing of the upholstery and cushions. All fillings have their good and bad points, it's largely a matter of personal preference.
High density foam is the firmest choice and will hold up well to wear and tear. It is usually a solid piece and is sometimes wrapped in a polyester foam material to soften edges.
Foam fill is loose foam and will provide a softer seat with "sink in" comfort. Look for fill that is tightly packed.
Down is the most luxurious and costly composition material and is high-maintenance. You'll have to fluff the cushions every day to prevent packing of the down.
A composition blend of down and loose foam is a good balance and will lessen the need for fluffing.

Material, Color and Pattern
The first thing most people will notice is the material and pattern (if any) on your new sofa, and you'll be living with it every day for the next several years. Choose wisely. You may love that deep, vibrant eggplant in the store, but will you get tired of seeing it every day in your living room?
The options are endless - chenille, leather, vinyl, microfiber, velvet and cotton are just a few. Narrow down your choices by considering who, how and when you'll be using the sofa.
For durability and ease of cleaning, consider leather, microfibers and vinyl - particularly if you have children or pets. Leather is a wonderful material for its breathability, supple feel and the many rich colors it now comes in; however, it does come with a price. Microfibers are soft and supple and extremely stain resistant. Vinyl cleans up easily, but it can be sticky on hot days because it doesn't breath.
If you prefer natural fibers, cotton canvas and cotton velvets are a good choice; however, velvet will show wear faster in areas where people sit a lot because the nap will wear off. The cotton canvas will hold up to years of wear. Chenille is another great option – it's durable, comfortable and wears like iron.
The color of your sofa will ground your room. You can either contrast with your walls (for impact) or choose a shade of the same color (for a restful, monochromatic feel). Either will work, but do be aware that the color you choose will, apart from the walls and floor, be the largest block of unrelieved color in the room – you'd better love it.
Make sure that the pattern you choose isn't too distracting or overpowering. While a bold pattern might be great if your room has a few other solid pieces, it may be overwhelming with an oriental rug, patterned drapes and a striped chair. An excellent compromise is a rich tone-on-tone material which will give you depth and interest without being too busy.