Vendors bring product to market and retailers sell it to the masses, but the process really starts with the ideas product designers bring to the table. We've selected designers from various aspects of the industry to periodically share their insight during the year. Our mix includes Doug Wilson, Jonathan Adler, Nina Campbell, Paul Thompson, Liora Manne, Mark Abrams, David Landis, Carla Zajac and James Slaven, Dorian Webb and Rick Janosek.
This month's question for the crew was to outline the trends and/or colors they see emerging in 2006 and where those trends are coming from.
Dorian Webb
I think black and inventive color combinations that push the envelope are going to be two of the largest trends for 2006. Black was on all the runways for Fall 2005, and was the winter story that just wouldn't quit. Somehow, layers and layers of black seemed fresh and pulled together. Our chandeliers are known for their use of color, but we're finding that more and more customers are making special requests for all black pieces. It's obviously quite forward now, but I do see it as a growing trend that will also incorporate accent pieces and furniture. The other trend I see becoming stronger than ever is the interpretive use of color. Now more than ever, people are exposed to the cultures and tastes of other countries and are more open to incorporating these elements into their lifestyle. The layering of colors in Indian and African cultures has begun to find an audience with the American consumer. Brown, mixed with a pale pastel, and accented with a strong color such as red, cyan or lime green is the manifestation of this appreciation. The ubiquitous beaded clothing that swept the country last year was also reflective of that trend. Here again, people first become accustomed to seeing an element they like in one instance, and then feel comfortable in adapting those elements into other areas of their life.
Liora Manné
I think design is getting more personal — handmade, hand-touched, individualized and artistic. People like modern but warm colors, round shapes, comfortable to be with, dramatic and not overly serious. In many color pallets, whether it's bright and happy or soft and Zen-like, there is harmony, a blending and shading of colors. Lots of textured yarns, dyeing techniques, metallic fibers.
Nina Campbell
For me the big trend of 2006 is colors getting brighter and more jewel-like. I think it is a long running backlash against minimalism that has encouraged this. My decorating this year will be full of gentle jewel tones and rich textures — I think a new Rococo is being born! Following on from my very successful flocked silked taffeta, I am bringing out a new flocked wallpaper, which I think is becoming very fashionable again. I am designing it in new and exciting colors such as aquamarine, topaz, pink, sapphire and a red reminiscent of Chinese red lacquer. For me it is all about glamour in 2006!
Mark Abrams
Shapes and colors will evolve into more classic updates in modern and warmer color tones in traditional. Whereas, upholstery and wood furniture have trended toward movement of shape, the additions of details with tufting, nailhead, and leg finishes on upholstery all take into account where modern is growing. I believe modern will become cleaner with classic silhouettes. Art Deco, classic Asian updated in materials and mix of forms, and colored glass will continue to grow. A combination of white metals and dark wood looks with additions of color in trim or accents. Colors will become less intense and softer in palette — softer reds to pinks, and less acid greens. Tans and taupes will continue to be a basic with a splash of color. Whereas orange is important on the high end, it will translate down to the mass as accents. Traditional will take on warmer tones with a bronze, antiqued brass in hardware. European themes of Italian and French country looks will continue and address the country themes that Americans love — Tuscan golds, olive green and accents of red/pinks.
Doug Wilson
Black and white is a color trend I see continuing into 2006 and beyond. Though this trend is not new, the combination is prevailing, as it is basic. Black and white is still a hot color combination in interior design and design philosophy. Decorating with these colors produces a sleek and sophisticated environment with a hint of drama. The dramatic effect of black and white adds depth and character to anything from the black and white photography on your wall, to the striped rug underfoot. Gone is the notion that a black-and-white decorating scheme is boring and sterile. White has an ethereal, elegant feel, while black adds a boldness that anchors, outlines and provides a focal point. This color scheme can be incorporated into any design style; from contemporary furniture pieces in leather and chrome to Country French toile fabrics and wallpaper.
Jonathan Adler
My color views are, for better or worse, idiosyncratic and not always on trend. Having said that, I'm currently obsessed with yellow and white, inspired by Mia Farrow's apartment in Rosemary's Baby. For general trends I think ornamentation and eclecticism will continue to rage forward. In fashion right now, anything goes. There are no dominant trends or colors or looks, no perfect skirt length or heel style. Everything is equally valid and the more messed-up and off an outfit is, the more fashionable it looks. In fashion, looking very pulled together and neat looks terribly unfashionable — messy, slutty, inappropriate looks rule the streets. I think the same general idea applies to home design. Like your outfit, your home should look like you're not trying too hard. Choreographed disarray, a mix of high and low, and an electric mix of styles strike just the right note.
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