More than 75,000 people converged at the High Point Furniture Market over the last several days to flaunt their furniture, parade new designs and survey the landscape for the hottest new design trends to hit the market.  It was a whirlwind of activity for the five days as buyers and exhibitors traipsed through 180 buildings with tens of thousands of products to see and show.

 We were thrilled to see that so many people were hyped about performance fabric.  Because more and more performance fabrics are being introduced to the market, a critical part of our mission is to educate buyers and end-user customers alike about the differences in performance fabrics.  For example, it is important for our team to show how the LiveSmart protection is truly a part of the fabric itself with our fibers encapsulated in the protective technology.   Since our technology is specifically engineered for each of our fabrics to achieve optimum performance, there is not any fabric like them on the market!  Additionally, buyers need to beware of fabric testing.  We encourage buyers to look into how rigorous product testing standards are for every fabric manufacturer.

Speaking of fabric, we’re seeing a lot more risk-taking when it comes to modern fabric choices.  While this is evident in the higher-end furniture, we’re certain that it will begin to trickle into a broader range of furniture in the coming seasons.

Colors

Gone are the days when all sofas were beige. 
This market had a variety of rich teals, shades of green, deep purples, corals, smoked salmon and blues in indigo and crisp heron versions.  The higher end of the market was definitely taking more risks with sofas and chairs in these vivid colors but there was more color overall in every showroom, including the mid- and lower-ends of the market offerings.

Patterns

In years’ past, geometric patterns were relegated to pillows and throws.  Today’s market included interesting pin stripes, smaller geometrics and organic shapes…on sofas.   Once again, the higher end seemed to lead the way in pattern introduction.  Some patterns even included a bit of bold whimsy with llamas, succulents, polka dots and dogs!  Accent patterns included window pane plaids, decorative stripes with interesting yarns, flour sack stripes and rug stripes. 

Texture

While touch is one of the four main senses, texture has been largely missing from modern design until recent years.  This trend is continuing with a bent toward handmade rugs, textured stripes and an eclectic mix of touchable pillow patterns. 

The furniture market in High Point is always a terrific time to review the trends of the industry…this year was no different.  And while we’re still in the grips of the adrenalin rush, we’ll review our current fabrics and ensure that we’re remaining on target with the trends of the industry.  It’s good to stay spotless, especially when your performance fabric is on point with today’s fashionable buyers and consumers!