During Casual Market Atlanta, I got the chance to talk about one of my favorite topics — design trends — during a seminar and tour presented in partnership with the International Casual Furnishings Association and Andmore.
We had a great discussion followed by a tour through the temporary booths on the seventh floor of AmericasMart to see some of those trends in the wild. On that tour and as I walked the showrooms myself during market, I noticed not only evidence of the trends I outlined, but other emerging shifts, as well.
Prior to our tour, I explained to the seminar attendees why design trends matter in the first place. For many, they can seem abstract and superfluous, but these trends in color, material and other aspects of design can give us greater insight into a number of important factors. They reflect larger macro influences such as global unrest and economic disruption. They help us see shifts in consumer priorities, and they also offer those same consumers inspiration and guidance on making purchases for their homes.
Trends are more than just flowery declarations of the “color of the year” or which wood finish is hot — they’re reflections of our past and present that give us insight into the future.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at the trends I shared in my seminar, as well as others I noticed while visiting Casual Market showrooms.
Nostalgia
In a time of chaos and unrest in the world, we tend to cling to happy memories of the past for comfort and grounding. This trend encompasses the return to vintage vibes with silhouettes, colors, patterns and materials that hearken to the past and give us a sense of joy. In outdoor, this trend comes alive in vintage-style umbrellas complete with fringe or tassels, mod geometric patterns, midcentury silhouettes and reissues of iconic designs, and a palette of warm neutrals and muted colors.
Updated Coastal
With the United Nations declaring this the Decade of the Ocean and greater awareness of oceanic conservation growing, the influence of the sea has been strongly felt throughout the home. Going beyond the beachy kitsch of yore, this trend elevates coastal with sophisticated patterns with nods to a nostalgic Mediterranean vibe, watery abstracts, and materials and finishes influenced by sand, seaweed, driftwood and other natural aspects of the seashore.
Handmade/Artisan
This trend speaks to the desire for authenticity and craftsmanship in an age marked by disturbing AI fakes and mass-produced “landfill core.” Consumers want furnishings and accessories with a story that conveys the people, places and history behind a piece. Think details such as hand-weaving, hand-hammered metals, embroidered fabrics, etc. This trend also speaks to a desire for pieces that last — quality furnishings and accessories that combine durability with a timeless design that allows them to endure in a home for years to come.
Chic Comfort
Similar to the trend toward nostalgia, consumers are increasingly concerned with making their homes a sanctuary where they can shut out the world and feel completely at ease. To that end, consumers want to feel cozy and comfortable outdoors, but they want that comfort to look good, too — think of it as a more elevated take on hygge. This trend includes everything from plush, oversized seating, daybeds designed for luxurious lounging, and woven seating with built-in cushions that provide comfort and style.
Thoughtful Tech
We live in a digital age of smart phones, smart cars and smart homes. But consumers don’t want tech for tech’s sake — they want thoughtful integrations that enhance their experience outdoors, incorporating sensorial enhancements such as heating, music and light. These extras don’t detract or distract — they make an outdoor space more comfortable and functional.
Want more consumer trends? Check out Consumer Insights Now’s newest report on Generation Z shoppers, sponsored by Bread Financial. The data outlines Gen Z shopping needs and plans, what motivates them as shoppers and how they shop for furniture.
