Home Furnishing Trends in America Challenged

However, as is the case in all phases of the American economy, the home furnishings industry faces challenges from increasing competition from globalization. As more furniture is imported, it becomes more difficult for American companies to compete as consumer prices continue to decline. That may prove advantageous to consumers, but it will cause an increasing number of problems for U.S. furniture companies.

There are several ways American furniture companies are fighting back against their foreign competition, especially when it comes to innovation and increased efficiency. After centuries of experience with American consumers, U.S. furniture suppliers have a firm grasp on what their clients need and want when it comes to furnishing their homes.

One of the most significant trends in recent years has been the migration of suburban homeowners back to urban areas. Since they've often done quite well when they sold their suburban homes, these buyers can afford to upgrade both their living spaces and the furnishing they fill them with.

With that trend also comes a rethinking of interior spaces such as the kitchen. Homeowners want appliances and furniture that allows them to create an integrated feel throughout their homes. For example, kitchens have become much more than just places to cook meals. They're now gathering places, as well, and innovative furniture allows homeowners to combine function with style and utility.

Things may be slowing down for the housing market, but the past few years have been excellent for companies dedicated to helping homeowners fill those houses with furniture and appliances that can fit any type of taste, lifestyle, and budget.

Copyright © 2006 Jeanette J. Fisher

Interior Design Ideas for Home Decorating

sweet Home decorating, more popular than ever, partially spurred on by HGTV and other decorating channels, inspires home makers to learn about interior design. Some of these shows like Trading Spaces leave one wondering if the changes make sense for the home occupants. Other shows show elaborate, expensive design details that either confuse the home decorator or scare them off with costs.

When it comes to decorating your home, forget about the colorful, over-the-top rooms you see on interior design TV shows. Instead, concentrate on designing all of the rooms in your home as backdrops for the people who will be living in those spaces.

Simple interior design psychology rules for designing dynamic spaces:

1. Beauty of Sparsity

Don't be afraid to leave some empty spaces in your rooms. Empty space allows for breathing room and lets the most important items in the room shine -- the people who live there!

2. Patterns for People

Avoid large patterns in your fabrics and wallpapers. As a general rule, use no designs larger than your palm, because they will interfere with the appearance of people in the room. Using smaller patterns on walls and furniture will mean that friends and family won't have to compete with bold patterns for attention.

3. Flattering Colors

Use paint colors that complement people's skin and eye colors. For light skin colors, use yellows, pinks, and beiges. For darker complexions, yellows, olives, and tans can make people look great.

4. Pamper Yourself and Guests with Textures

Use textures that stimulate the sense of touch. Look for textures that feel nice to caress, such as velvet, chenille, or satin. Exquisite textures create a feeling of being pampered.

5. Comfort First

Always choose comfort over pretense. Just because a sofa looks great doesn't mean the seating provides deep comfort. When you visit a showroom, remember that in order to truly test a piece of furniture, you need to sit on it for awhile, until you feel totally rested. Only then will can you get a realistic feel for its support and comfort level.

6. Decorate Your Home for Emotional Support

Your home is meant to be a place for people, and if you always keep yourself, your family, and your guests in mind, you'll be well on your way to designing spaces that will be more comfortable and emotionally appealing than the staged rooms you see on home decorating TV shows.

Copyright © 2006 Jeanette J. Fisher