The largest furniture trade show in the country is currently underway, showcasing furniture and trends that you’ll see at retail in about six months. High Point Market is also where a lot of trends are set for the coming year (or more). And there are 6 very distinct trends emerging already, particularly in seating. Let’s take a look!

1. The New Romantics

Curves? Check. Delicate pinks? Check. Refined luxury? Check and check. Put them all together and you have a new romanticism in furniture design. And midcentury detailing is hotter than ever before - you’ll see touches of it in every trend I mention here. But in the new collection from Barbara Barry, Baker Furniture offers a lovely look that is feminine and tailored, and refined rather than “sweet.”

2. Asian Elegance

There is a strong Asian influence, but it’s more zen and tranquil. In the Thomas Pheasant collection, the Nami Lounge Chair takes its name from the Japanese word for “wave.” Its shaping is inspired by the subtle movement of water as it gently rises and falls.

3. The Jeanneret Effect

Everyone seems to be in love with Pierre Jeanneret's mid-century modern 1950s Chandigarh chair. The iconic v-shaped frame inspired a LOT of new looks at the market, including the chair above from France and Son. This has already been a super-hot look at the luxe upper-end of the furniture world - I talked about that last November in a blog post (click here).

4. Modern Primitives

This raw-but-refined look emerged as a major trend this week, with definite influences from French mid-century modern design. The combination of raw materials like wood and steel with soft boucles and deep seating give it a new twist for today’s lifestyles.

5. The Magic of Motion

Motion furniture used to mean bulky and overstuffed looks. But today’s designs are sleeker and more modern, again with a lot of curved shapes. Swivel chairs are still hot hot hot. But recliners with a refined and contemporary look are also being shown in many showrooms.

6. Dream Weavers

Woven materials have been growing in popularity, and at this market they may have reached their peak. Rattan, wicker, bamboo, and other grasses are formed into incredible furniture designs that are at home in any design style.

What do you think of these trends? Which one are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments section below!

Warmly,

Beth