Page 178 - AmericasMart: Market Magazine July 2017

Janet Wansor, vice president of Sales and Marketing for
Jensen Leisure Furniture says she’s noticed a heightened interest in mixed media, such as wood combined with wicker,
or wood and stainless, as well as accent seating around fire pits, such as Adirondack chairs or deep-seat lounges.
While each project is unique, Howze says he’s noticed some over-arching trends, including the use of fresh greens, reds and authentic earth tones; the combination of cultural patterns and textures; and artisan and one-of-a-kind looks. He also sees an increase in the use of foliage and elements of nature, including botanicals, succulents, air plants and green walls.
BUYING IS DELIBERATE
Gold Leaf Design Group has catered to both wholesale and hospitality markets for more than 23 years, so its staff has a unique understanding of each customer’s needs. “The hospitality industry is traditionally not as ‘quick’ as a retail merchant would be,” says Howze, pointing out that there are many different people involved in signing off on each step.
Because their work is project-driven, Young says that in many cases, the designers sometimes shop between Markets when they’re working on specific projects, although they usually check out what’s new during the shows.
Matari agrees. “They are generally not going to buy at a show, they’ll look for possible specifications for current or upcoming projects,” she says.
And Young says she definitely sees an increase of hospitality buyers and designers in The Gardens® at AmericasMart. Wansor says that this is a growing customer base for her showroom as well and her staff must be prepared to work with them in a different way than traditional buyers.
“Product knowledge information is key, as we find that designers ask very specific questions regarding product and fabrics,”
she says. “Their creative perspective makes it fun, as they are more open to trying different combinations of seating with tables and accent pieces.”
For more information:
Currey and Company, curreycodealers.com, 877.768.6428;
Gold Leaf Design Group, goldleafdesigngroup.com, 877.738.1790; The Howard Elliott Collection, howardelliott.com, 877.327.1122; Jensen Leisure Furniture, jensenleisurefurniture.com, 800.403.0403; and Windham Enterprises, windhamcastings.com, 404.220.2050.
Images courtesy of: Currey And Co., Gold Leaf Design Group,
Howard Elliott Collection, Jensen Leisure furniture, Windham Enterprises
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