The “Open House” exhibit premiering at the summer 2012 New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®) will showcase five home design trends, ranging from nostalgic American motifs to modern print statements. These themes will also be explored in a related seminar, presented by Sandow Media, Pantone, and One Kings Lane, during the NYIGF.
“Open House is a collaboration of cross-industry trend-watchers to identify and showcase current – and coming – home trends,” says Christian Falkenberg, NYIGF Director and GLM Vice President. “Both the display and the seminar will offer NYIGF participants an invaluable preview of leading home products themes.”
The trends discovered are:
American Vintage
Heavy on nostalgia, this look merges classic American motifs like denim, patchwork, numbers, and flags, as well as distressed finishes, salvaged materials, and a hint of schoolroom style. Recycled materials are often used. This look is a continuation from the current industrial vintage trend, but with a fun, colorful approach.
The French Moderne Way
This look brings elegant French design to life. Minimalist and streamlined, it blends materials like shagreen and ebony with Egyptian and Asian elements. The emergence of Baroque themes – especially human imagery found in tapestries and paintings of the era – are a companion look.
The Marrakesh Express
Ethnic looks from the North African region are merging and making an appearance. The result is flat weaves and aged color stories set against distressed finishes and richly-aged patina metal surfaces.
Linen Revival
Linen and linen-like fabrications are putting an emphasis on a “dry” hand. These include rough linens that look hand-loomed, two-color tweeds, and animal patterns such as zebra and alligator wovens. Skins remain a design perennial, but this look introduces a seasonal twist.
Graphic Modern
This look is grounded by strong print statements rendered in just one or two colors. Designs have “pop,” expressed through polka dots, “softened” geometrics which polish down hard edges, and florals on a grand scale.
All NYIGF exhibitors are invited to submit products for display in these categories. One Kings Lane’s merchandising team will review submissions, make selections, and design and merchandise the display at NYIGF. The exhibit will be open during all NYIGF show hours, August 18-22, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Center.
In connection with the display, a seminar titled “Open House – What’s Hot in Home Design?” will explore trends influencing home products – from materials and color, to commerce and branding. Warren Shoulberg of Sandow Media will moderate the panel discussion, including Susan Feldman, co-founder of One Kings Lane, and Laurie Pressman, Pantone VP/Fashion, Home + Interiors. The session is scheduled for Sunday, August 19, from 8:30am – 9:30am at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. Tickets cost $20 advance/$25 onsite, and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com/programs.
As an extension of these onsite activities, select products from the “Open House” display will be sold in a One Kings Lane online flash sale during NYIGF, with proceeds benefitting Gift For Life, the home, gift, and stationery industries’ sole charity partner. The 72-hour sale will begin on Sunday, August 19, on www.onekingslane.com.
