Smart home technology: Trends to watch from CES 2025

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 was packed with exciting innovations in smart home technology, from aesthetic upgrades to cleaning robots. Whether it’s tech that blends seamlessly into home decor to robot butlers, this year’s show had plenty to offer. But not every gadget hit the mark—some raised concerns about privacy and sustainability.

Gift For Life partners with market organizers to support So Cal wildfire relief efforts

This January, the gift and home industry is rallying together to support those impacted by the devastating wildfires in Southern California. Through a series of fundraising events at major winter markets—Dallas, Atlanta, Las Vegas, and New York City—Gift for Life is partnering with World Central Kitchen to provide immediate relief to families and first responders. Your donations will help deliver fresh meals, water, and much-needed support in this time of crisis.

Support the cause today by donating at www.giftforlife.org/donate. Every contribution makes a difference!

Caleb Anderson assumes full leadership over Drake/Anderson

Renowned interior design firm Drake/Anderson proudly announces the successful completion of its esteemed succession plan, initiated nearly a decade ago, as Caleb Anderson assumes the role of sole principal. Co-founded in 2015 by Jamie Drake and Caleb Anderson, this significant transition marks an exciting new chapter for the distinguished firm as it enters its tenth year.

WAC Lighting sponsors the WAC Lighting Invitational Science Fair

The 2024 WAC Lighting Invitational Science Fair, held at Syosset High School, featured nearly 500 Long Island high school students presenting their research in fields ranging from biochemistry to environmental science. Now in its 14th year, the event offers students a platform to engage with esteemed scientists and compete for awards in nine categories, with scholarships and recognition for top projects. The fair underscores the importance of scientific inquiry and mentorship in shaping the future of young researchers.

Interior fashion with Allison Handler

Get an exclusive look into Allison’s journey from the fashion industry to luxury interiors and learn how she navigates complex design projects with a perfect balance of creativity and business savvy. She shares her favorite suppliers, pricing strategies, and top tips for building client trust.

Designer’s guide to Mexico City

Mexico City is a vibrant hub of culture and creativity and has long been a favorite destination for designers and artists alike. This guide features insights from a range of industry experts, including architect Ike, design publicist and long-time CDMX resident Abby Ellis, interior designer Kerry Vasquez, hospitality firms Woogmaster Studio and Bells & Whistles, and myself, DNN Editor-in-Chief, Courtney Porter. Together, we’ve curated a selection of galleries, shops, stays, sights, and bites to help you navigate this dynamic city. As Design News Now focuses on interiors, we’ll start with a spotlight on the city’s top furniture and collectibles galleries.

Focus on what’s working

At the time of new year goal setting, author and podcaster Kendra Adachi suggests focusing on things that are already going well.

Winter 2025 market product previews

As we poured over the submissions for this season’s Las Vegas and Atlanta markets, a couple of contrasting themes emerged: soft, lived-in pieces designed with wellness in mind, and oversized designs featuring crisp lines with an ultra-modern edge.

Gift for Life Launches “Party with a Purpose” in Atlanta 

Gift for Life’s Home vs Hunger team introduces fundraising for World Central Kitchen (WCK) during Atlanta Market with the debut of its “Party with a Purpose” on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at AmericasMart Atlanta.  Tickets for the fundraising event, which runs 6-8 PM in the Currey & Company showroom (Building 1, Floor 1, Suite L3), are available for at www.giftforlife.org/donate.

Champions of Design Entrepreneurship: Kathleen Jennison

Discover the inspiring journey of interior designer Kathleen Jennison, who overcame a traumatic brain injury to build two thriving businesses. Learn how perseverance, resilience, and a purposeful approach to design shaped her success.