Design Trends from Across the Pond

I just returned from a trip across the pond where I attended the Interiors UK show in Birmingham. The largest furniture show in the United Kingdom, this show offers a unique opportunity for retailers, interior designers, architects and contractors to experience an array of inspiring interiors products from more than 600 exhibitors, including new options for furniture, lighting, flooring, soft furnishings and accessories.

One of the design trends I was most excited to see at the show was crushed velvets on upholstery pieces.  The colors used were very tonal in nature and they added lots of layers of the same color on a piece of upholstery. Designers also incorporated shine into fabrics to add sparkle to a sofa, chair or accent pieces. Another way designers are adding some whimsy to living spaces is by using fur (real and faux), particularly on accent pillows.  

If you are looking to add the latest design trends to your home here in the states, CORT will be introducing the Kennedy sofa  in a wonderful deep blue velvet  ̶  soft and lush to the touch.  Our designers have coordinated it with the same tone in a leather accent chair, rug and artwork.  Additionally, a striped chair allows for some punch and the unexpected color of avocado green.  The new gold-bushed finish on the cocktail table in this new collection adds the shine and sparkle like a piece of jewelry.

Ann Sennewald

VP, Merchandising