*This article was written during the COVID-19 pandemic. Some references may be made.

Hello again from the Bennett’s Showroom!

I have been busy bringing the new items out that the Bennett’s Buyers have chosen for us. Buyers have a tricky job. They have to keep almost ahead of what is popular, so that by the time the furniture is manufactured and shipped to our store, we are showing the most up-to-date looks.

Of course we can’t show everything, and that is where customization is key. Often we will display a rather basic, neutral sofa and chair set, that you can choose to customize your own way. Some of the customization options offered include: arm shape, leg finish, seat depth, upholstery or leather, and number of seats. You can really make some pieces your very own.

So how do the Buyers know what is in style? We research. We attend seminars and markets to see what is available. Our furniture buyers are on top of the numbers of what is popular and what is of good value.

One resource is the High Point Furniture Market. Unfortunately it was cancelled this spring due to COVID-19, but they still had many of the design features available online, including what is trending!

I would like to run down the main points of what is trending in summer/fall 2020. If it is trending now, it will be mainstream in the near future. With this guide and help from our Decorator Consultants, you can jump ahead of the line and start outfitting your home with the hottest looks.

With our recent shelter in place order, we had a huge nesting trend. A LOT of people used their time away from work to engage in home improvement projects. Sustainability and social responsibility are gaining importance as we all came to terms with what was going on in the world, and as we look forward. We really want our home to be a quiet respite amidst the chaos of the world outside.

Home Sanctuary

With a focus on wellness we have a trend of quiet rooms. A space to relax, unplug and recharge. Cozy nooks to read a book. Soft surfaces to nap. Little luxuries to indulge in being still.

Natural Materials

A return to natural textiles and textures. Woven elements and natural-looking textures imprinted on metals, acrylics and plastics. Sustainable woods and fabrics are featured.

Bright Colours

Just like we saw after WWII, with the modern trends of the 50’s and 60’s, we are seeing bright cheerful colours again. As a whole we want our homes to make us happy, and colour can certainly do this. Bright colours are everywhere from art to cabinets. Blues are huge, as are pinks. We are seeing a BIG revival of the rich jewel tones. Neutrals are more on the warm side now. Beiges with brass and bronze touches replace cold greys and stainless steel.

The New Modern

Our new “modern” look is an updated minimalism. It’s more playful and livable, and not so stark. We see clean lines and rounded corners, especially in sofas and chairs. We are also noticing a real organic nod to the furniture and accessories, not only with sustainable materials, but also with shapes that are seen in nature being reflected. The new modern look is reminiscent of vintage postmodern furniture, but with updated performance fabrics. The colours are less focused on minimalistic neutrals, and we are instead seeing juicy pops of saturated colour and some bold monochromatic statements. Accent pieces look like works of art on their own.

We are also seeing Scandinavian-inspired sustainability both in the construction of the furniture AND the clean lines. Instant classics!

Home Hub

As we are increasingly working and doing school from home, multi-functional furniture is in the spotlight. Desks, shelves, bookcases, consoles and cabinets are all coming together to keep our families productive and organized.

Global Accents

Both furniture and accessories are seeing Moroccan influences as we crave to bring a touch of the world’s culture into our homes. Spanish and French touches are also gaining popularity. From ceramic tiles to textiles, we can add a hint of foreign flavor to our surroundings.