Two Industry-Leading Organizations Unite to Strengthen Advocacy, Elevate Programming, and Empower the Future of the Design and Furnishings Industries
NEW YORK, December 2025 — The Leaders of Design, the global community known for cultivating connection, thought leadership, and industry impact, is pleased to announce a strategic acquisition of the Decorative Furnishings Association (DFA). January 1, 2026, this evolution brings together nearly a century of DFA legacy with Leaders of Design’s dynamic platform, ushering in a revitalized, future‑focused era for the design industry.
Under this new structure, Leaders of Design will guide the DFA’s mission, amplify its reach, and introduce an expanded range of programs designed to support its member showrooms, manufacturers, artisans, and design professionals nationwide. The initiative includes reinvigorated community engagement, enhanced advocacy, elevated educational experiences, and data‑driven insights, while preserving the DFA’s historical identity and purpose.
“The Decorative Furnishings Association has long been a pillar of our industry. We are honored to help shepherd its evolution and expand its impact at a moment when community, advocacy, and collaboration matter more than ever,” said Leaders of Design Co-Founder, Keith Granet.
For almost 100 years, the DFA has championed the role of showrooms and trade vendors. Today’s rapidly shifting landscape, technology, buying habits, economic pressures, and new modes of collaboration have created an urgent need for modernized advocacy and renewed community connection. Leaders of Design stewardship will help energize the organization’s programming and amplify its voice across the industry.
“Our board is excited for this next chapter for the DFA and continuing the legacy of an organization that has been such a pillar of our industry since 1934. We know this partnership and merger will expand the DFA’s reach and continue to strengthen the organization as a whole as our industry continues to navigate constant shifts in everything from AI integrations to tariffs. The LDC will continue the DFA’s mission to provide resources and support to showrooms, design centers, manufacturers and sales representatives – alongside programming to continue uniting and strengthening our industry as a whole.” – Meredith Xavier, DFA President and Board Member
To support this expanded vision, the DFA will introduce a refreshed membership model and has appointed Rachel York, as the DFA’s new Executive Director who will oversee the organization’s next chapter.
I am honored to join the Decorative Furnishings Association (DFA) as Executive Director. Guided by a deep passion for community, craftsmanship, and design, I look forward to celebrating and stewarding the DFA’s remarkable legacy. In partnership with the leadership and support of the Leaders of Design, we will re-energize our mission and reimagine a strong, dynamic bridge to the future. – Rachel York, Executive Director of the Decorative Furnishing Association
About Leaders of Design
The Leaders of Design was created to elevate and enhance the value of design. We achieve our mission by nurturing a robust membership of design leaders with frequent education programs and networking opportunities, and one annual international conference. Our community includes leaders from architecture, interior design, and landscape design firms, as well as leaders of relevant product, service, and media companies.
All our members illustrate high talent and strong character, and are admitted after a comprehensive application review, including references by current members. Members are based in over 40 cities across the globe. Our members are design entrepreneurs who thrive on new experiences to stimulate innovation in their practices and companies.
This special community is fueled by monthly get-togethers, quarterly business workshops, one annual conference and an on-line presence. Each and every detail of our organization and its events is carefully considered, in response to members’ needs. Our Co-founder Keith Granet along with Marc Szafran and Dana Colla personally arrange and host all of our activities. In sum, the Leaders of Design Council facilitates business education, personal inspiration and professional connections for its membership, all year long.
About the Decorative Furnishings Association
The Decorative Furnishings Association (DFA) is the oldest trade organization in the luxury design industry. Founded in 1934 to bring leading design and décor stakeholders together, the DFA has always been committed to fostering meaning conversations and enacting changes designed to strengthen the industry as a whole. Now more than ever, DFA is committed to the health, growth, and future vitality of the interior design industry. We believe in supporting the trade by bringing together industry partners to:
- Provide access to some of the top leaders and futurists in the industry, through monthly discussions and in-person events
- Share best practices, industry insights and new resources through educational and inspirational presentations from leading experts in home design and beyond.
- Inform trade members about the ever-evolving business environment created by technology, advancements in sustainability, and how consumer and economic trends have an overall impact on the industry
- Educate consumers about the benefits of working with a design professional, and how to access their services to enhance one’s lifestyle.
- Empower the next generation of design professionals and educate them on the best ways to work with the trade
