When consumers are getting less for their money, give them more

With prices rising the past couple of years across virtually every category of goods and services, consumers are tired of paying more and more for the same thing — or, in the case of shrinkflation, paying the same amount for less product.

That makes receiving a small, unexpected gift from a company especially delightful right now.

High Point earns autism destination certification

High Point has been designated as the first Certified Autism Destination (CAD) on the East Coast. This distinction is awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) and recognizes the city’s commitment to making its attractions, hotels, restaurants, and public spaces accessible and welcoming to autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals and their families.

Heritage collection by Draga & Aurel

Draga & Aurel rethink and reinvent the furniture, giving them a new contemporary flair. Combining their skills and past experience in fashion, textiles, art and design, they apply the best and most appropriate creative craftsmanship techniques – such as screen printing, resin covering and brass casting – to bring a second life to the object while preserving its heritage.

Following is a selection of the latest creations, some of which were exclusively unveiled during Milan Design Week at the Rossana Orlandi Gallery in Milan.

Christie’s announces Spring design auction

The French Art Deco chapter features a superb carpet by Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, and great designs by Jean Dunand, Armand Albert Rateau and Claudius Linossier. Contemporary Design is represented through works by Judy McKie, Philippe Anthonioz, Ingrid Donat, Wendell Castle and Ron Arad.

Annie Selke & Frances Valentine join forces to create an exuberant bedding collection

Annie Selke, Founder and Chief Vision Officer of The Annie Selke Companies, and Elyce Arons, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of renowned fashion brand Frances Valentine, are excited to announce the Frances Valentine Collection for Annie Selke.

US vs. EU furniture markets: Who is influencing whom?

In Europe, there is a greater prevalence of smaller, independent furniture stores and boutiques, and Europeans are more inclined to prioritize local businesses over big box stores. In the United States, larger chain stores, department stores, and online retailers dominate the market, offering a wide range of furniture options at various price points.

Elevated outdoor furniture trends make casual the growth category to watch

Outdoor furniture is taking cues from modern interiors and hospitality design. Outdoor spaces are reveling in vibrant colors, and metallic accents. They’re being elevated by pieces that reflect the Scandinavian ethos of simplicity and tranquility and the romantic allure of modern Italian craftsmanship. In collaboration with Casual News Now Editor in Chief, Alex Milstein, we explore the trends elevating outdoor design. 

Crypton’s era of design leadership: an interview with Crypton’s VP of Design, Grainne Coogan

One of the unusual perspectives a textile design executive has at market is seeing how other showrooms use their product. It is unlike rugs or accessories, frequently found accenting other showrooms – those are products that are often smaller and can be easily moved around, but an upholstered sectional: that’s the hero of the room scene and it’s here to stay. One observation Coogan had from this past market was that showrooms tended to play it safe – she would love to see bolder choices being made, and, of course, just on more giant sectionals in general.

A Trip to Polywood…

Polywood’s sustainability initiatives should inspire us all. By prioritizing responsible manufacturing, embracing recycled materials, incorporating renewable energy sources, and actively contributing to environmental causes, they have become an industry leader in sustainable practices.

Designing special rooms for special people

The CEO, principal and creative director of Savvy Interiors in San Diego, hadn’t worked on a space that met guidelines emanating from the Americans with Disabilities Act. So, she did what she always does when faced with a new challenge: She read everything she could, reached out to medical experts, consulted with design colleagues who’d worked on such spaces and, of course, talked to the teen and his parents about his unique situation.