Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Design Trend Forecast 2008-2009

By Patty Bouley, President Bouley Design Inc.
11/18/2008

Patty Bouley

At 1.3 million square feet of exhibition space, there is no way to cover every inch of Maison et Objet, greater Paris’ bi-annual home furnishings trade show. The illusive search for French style starts at any one of the seven exhibition halls but sifting through the trends while dodging 66,000 visitors and 3,000 exhibitors is enough to drive any show participant to the espresso bar—but not style scout and professional design consultant, Patty Bouley. With much discipline and expertise, Bouley has returned with the trend forecast for 2009.

For fall 2008 there was a profusion of posh one-of-a-kind finds, but as Bouley reports, if there were to be one overall theme that surfaced this autumn it would be “simple.” This back-to-basics style or “slo tec” is all abou less speed for better living with a focus on eco consciousness, quality craftsmanship and agrarian living. The highlights of Maison et Objet were the many shades of gorgeous purple, brilliant golds, and luscious reds. Handmade objects by artisans stood out as did sleek outdoor furniture and lighting.

The newest designs in European Home Furnishings are constantly evolving as new ideas rise from international designers with an uncanny ability to challenge tradition. Trend spotter and style maven Patty Bouley shares the trends at a glance.

TOMORROW'S TRENDS
  • Caravan
    The bold patterns of the former Soviet Union and rural Russia were embroidered across all genres of decor. Suzani patterns and Uzbek folk art inspire striking patterns in circular motifs with bold colorations. Themes of Russian nesting dolls resurface in more modern ways.
  • Glacier
    The complex dimensions of snowflakes and crystal quality of ice is one of the freshest themes in home design. Frosty finishes, metallic accents, and cube shapes redefine the fine line between hot and cool.
  • Mustard and Plum Palette
    Last seasons’ two most prominent colors pair up as this year’s dominant palette. Plum and gold tones stand out while deep purple, rosy lavenders, and bold yellows with a hint of green gain momentum
  • Modern Patchwork
    These quilted accessories are far from country kitsch. A modern mix of pieced fabric, and color-blocked graphics, this age-old craft has made its grand entrance into the 21st century.
  • Outdoor Chic
    No longer relegated to teak and wicker, outdoor furniture design is pushing traditional boundaries of style and technical innovation. This genre of decor took more risks than any other this season.
  • Red and Orange Palette
    Passionate, warm, and inviting—the red and orange family has a strong presence this fall. Crimson and citrus combinations appear in table linens and lamps. Clear reds make a splash in ethnic textiles, sculpted candles and silk flowers.

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