High Point Market: Trends to Follow
May 14, 2024
High Point Design Market
Jenny and Ashley just returned from the High Point Design Market in North Carolina and wow what a whirlwind trip. For several days they went nonstop to bring back all of the latest and greatest ideas and trends for not only our clients, but the entire design team at Karr Bick. In an effort to keep it simple and to the point, we are highlighting five focused areas that were repeated in just about every design house that they visited. Let’s dig in.
TREND 1: COLOR, COLOR, COLOR
Well, if you’ve followed our pages for a while, you know that we LOVE color. The bolder the better in our opinion. And that was the same at market. Almost every showroom that was visited was filled with color. Hot pink, bright orange, every shade of blue, and green, it was everywhere. Wallpaper filled with color, colorful fabric on living room couches and chairs, lampshades, dining chairs, rugs, you name it.
Bold colors inject life and personality into any space, creating a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere. We know that sometimes bold color can evoke a bit of fear, but we want to assure you when it’s done right, you won’t be sorry. Color brings a sense of happiness to every room it lands in.
When you embrace color fearlessly, you learn to understand its power to evoke emotions and uplift spirits, all the design experts agree. When used thoughtfully and skillfully, colors can transform a room, making it a joyous and inviting place to be. Let’s get our color on!
Trend 2: Horse Bit Details
Another design feature that really stood out at market this year, and luckily, we have loved this trend for years, was horse bit design.
“Horse bit” refers to a piece of hardware used in equestrian gear, typically in the design of bridles and related equipment. In the realm of design, the term might be used to describe elements or motifs inspired by equestrian themes.
In interior design, equestrian-inspired elements have been popular for quite some time, often associated with a traditional or classic aesthetic. This might include the use of materials like leather, brass, or wood reminiscent of saddle tack, as well as decorative accents such as horse bit-shaped hardware or themes featuring horses or riding gear.
These elements can add a sense of sophistication, elegance, and even a hint of nostalgia to a space. They can be incorporated in various ways, from subtle touches like drawer pulls or trim details to more prominent features like furniture pieces or wall art.
While trends in design are always evolving, equestrian-inspired concepts have endured over the years, often reinterpreted in contemporary or eclectic styles to suit current tastes. So, while not necessarily a new trend, the equestrian influence continues to be a timeless and versatile theme in interior design. We love adding this beautiful detail to enhance any space. It is certainly a trend to get behind.
Trend 3: All the Scallops
The next trend to get behind is scalloped edges and details. Give us all the scallops please!!
Scalloped edges and details in design have been used in various design styles, from traditional to contemporary, and can be found in architecture, furniture, textiles, and other decorative arts.
Scalloped edges add a soft and whimsical touch to any design, creating visual interest and a sense of movement. They can be incorporated in numerous ways, such as:
Furniture: Chairs, headboards, and tables with scalloped edges bring a charming and feminine vibe to a room.
Textiles: Scalloped details can be found on curtains, bedding, and upholstery, and window treatments adding a delicate and romantic flair.
Wall treatments: Scalloped edges can be used in molding, wallpaper patterns, or tile designs to create depth and texture on walls.
Accessories: From mirrors and picture frames to lampshades and rugs, scalloped edges can be used on various decorative items, enhancing their visual appeal.
Scalloped edges have a timeless quality that can complement a wide range of design styles, from vintage-inspired to modern. They bring a sense of elegance and playfulness to any interior or exterior space, making them a versatile and enduring design choice. We love the delicate line of a scalloped detail and know you will too. Again, give us all the scallops.
Trend 4: Wicker
My oh my, do we love wicker and it was EVERYWHERE.
Wicker has a long history in design and can be used in a variety of ways to add warmth, texture, and a touch of rustic charm to interiors and exteriors alike. Here are some common applications of wicker that we saw at market, and that we love to use in design:
Furniture: Wicker furniture is perhaps the most common and recognizable use of the material, and we saw it in countless showrooms. Chairs, sofas, tables, and even bed frames made from wicker can lend a relaxed, casual feel to a space, perfect for sunrooms, porches, or coastal-inspired interiors. We also incorporate wicker into transitional and modern design as well.
Lighting: One of our favorite uses for wicker is in lighting. Wicker lampshades or pendant lights allows light to filter through gently, casting interesting patterns and adding a cozy ambiance to any room. The texture of wicker also adds a special touch that other materials can’t replicate.
Storage: Baskets and bins made from wicker are not only practical for organizing items but also add a decorative touch to shelves, closets, and entryways. They come in various shapes, sizes, and designs, making them versatile storage solutions. Nothing is better than practical, yet pretty, storage.
Accessories: We also love to incorporate wicker into smaller decor items such as mirrors, trays, planters, and wall art, adding texture and visual interest to any room. There choices are endless, and we love them all.
Outdoor Decor: We can’t talk about wicker without talking about its use outside. Wicker is highly durable and weather-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor furniture such as patio sets, lounge chairs, and dining tables. It can withstand exposure to sunlight, rain, and humidity while still retaining its charm. It ages gracefully and even when it finally begins to wear, its charm never fades.
Overall, wicker is prized for its versatility, durability, and timeless appeal. Whether used in traditional, contemporary, or eclectic design schemes, it adds a sense of warmth and character to any space. So, if you see a wicker piece you love, scoop it up, you will be glad you did.
Trend 5: Fabric Lampshades
Fabric lampshades are a popular choice in our interior designs for several reasons. They offer versatility, as they come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures to complement any decor style. Here are some of the reasons that we are mad about fabric lampshades:
Design Flexibility: Fabric lampshades can be customized to suit specific design preferences. Whether you prefer a solid color, a bold pattern, or a subtle texture, there are endless options to choose from to match your design style.
Texture and Depth: Fabric lampshades add visual interest and depth to a room, especially when paired with complementary fabrics such as curtains or upholstery. They can introduce texture through materials like linen, silk, or even more unconventional options like burlap or velvet.
Decorative Accents: Fabric lampshades serve as decorative accents that can enhance the overall aesthetic of a space. They can introduce a pop of color, introduce a focal point, or tie together different elements in the room.
Diffused Light: Depending on the opacity of the fabric, lampshades can control the amount of light emitted, creating different moods and atmospheres. Sheer fabrics allow more light to pass through, while thicker fabrics provide a more subdued lighting effect. This is great for any room and enhances the overall vibe of the space.
Versatility: Fabric lampshades come in various shapes and sizes, from classic drum shades to tapered, empire, or bell-shaped designs. This versatility allows you to choose a lampshade that complements the proportions of your lamp base and fits the scale of your space.
When selecting fabric lampshades for your design, consider factors such as the size of the lamp base, the desired lighting effect, and how the lampshade will coordinate with other elements in the room. With the right choice, fabric lampshades can thoroughly elevate the overall look and feel of your space, adding warmth, style, and personality.
We hope that you liked seeing the latest trends from High Point. Custom pieces and unique looks can really make a space come alive. Whether it’s incorporating the latest design elements or putting a personal twist on a classic style, we are here to help you create something truly special. Come see us to get started.