Product Trend: Home Décor Taking Cues from the Past
by Christina Lee on February 10th, 2009
In 2009, past eras serve as common inspiration for both the home décor and furniture industries. Such themes call for many details, as the minimalistic nature of recent years continues to fade. So for this reason, consultants and experts have sought out easy ways for customers to recreate this look, calling attention either investment pieces turned modern or accessories with the most impact:
Daydreams of Old Glamour
The writers at Apartment Therapy found a major source of inspiration in AMC’s “Mad Men,” which takes place on New York’s Madison Avenue during the 1960s. For customers who want to recreate such a look, turn them to seating with sleek silhouettes – no skirts allowed. And for an era-appropriate glow throughout the home, sell up side table and accent lamps, as well as task lighting and wall sconces, with simple white lampshades and stands of clear crystal or dark brass.
On the other hand, color authority Pantone refers to an earlier era of old glamour in its trend report – that of the 1930s movie stars. Fabrics and upholstery should come in the traditional shades of dusted rose and taupe. The modern punch can be delivered through crystal accents. While they were clear back in the day, now they come in shades of purple, such as flowering lilac, fragrant lavender, and blue iris.
Patchworks of Modern and Classic
In some cases – like the quilt Kenzo showcased for Yves Delorme at Maison et Object – the trend’s name can be taken literally, as it is sewn with blocks two-toned prints, tiny flowers, and bold hues made popular over the past couple of years.
But in others, designers have otherwise juxtaposed classic and modern elements together, especially on chairs. Leathers can now be seen braided or weaved, then paired with aluminum touches, as Red Dot Design of Germany and Dr. Peter Zec, its leader and the Anna Wintour of the industrial design world, pointed out. As Apartment Therapy also reports, designers have also taken the Eames chair in a classic wood exterior and upholstered it with funky and quirky prints: plaid, paisley, and yes, patchwork.
Studying Abroad
While exotic touches always sell, this year’s inspiration roots from the Aegean Sea, Machu Picchu, and Nepal, according to Pantone. Both mineral and Mediterranean blues can be paired with rose and Dijon yellow, and embellished with gold and scarlet red.
Point customers toward vases, textiles, and anything else inspired by artifacts. Bold Suzani patterns should still have a strong presence in fall décor, as home design consultant Patty Bouley reported from Paris at Maison et Object. The easiest way to indulge is with embroidered or printed pillows, in colors either accenting or complementing what customers already use.
What other home décor trends have you noticed? Which ones would you buy into, and why?