At last week’s Atlanta Market, market-goers expressed a newfound optimism and a stronger appreciation for artisans and animals. Here are five key takeaways:
Optimism abounds
Showrooms in Atlanta were bustling with activity and exhibitors said buyers were there to place orders. The mood seemed very positive and hopeful. “I think we are on the rebound and 2024 will be a good year,” said Michelle Labovitz, director of public relations at Mud Pie. Other vendors agreed that they were optimistic because of healthy inventory levels and shipping issues that have somewhat normalized. “During the height of the pandemic we were slammed and couldn’t keep up with the number of orders,” said Jamie Young, president of Jamie Young Company. “But now we’ve returned to a good steady level of business.”
Contrast is important
Many companies introduced new collections that featured statement items with a stronger level of contrast at this market, such as a chair with a light fabric and dark metal legs, decorative accents made with contrasting colors including white marble with a bright gold base, and pillows with highly contrasting colors such as dark blue and white. “We are seeing more contrast in both furniture and accents,” said Kenzie Reddick, vice president of marketing, interior design and brand development at Hooker Furnishings. “As consumers get bolder with their use of color, higher contrast is a part of that.”
Animals are everywhere
It was hard to find a showroom without animals in Atlanta. From dog paperweights to origami birds, animals were everywhere. Mud Pie offered a new collection of tableware that featured chickens, cows, pigs and sheep, Napa Home & Garden got into the action with some wooden sheep and decorative metal dachshunds, and Accent Décor included a sculpture of a water buffalo with a bird on its back and its new Allegory ceramic sculpture collection which includes a horse, a bird and a cave, each made with a brown clay base and a contrasting white glaze.
Artisan appreciation
Home accent companies of all kinds are touting their strong relationships with artisans around the globe. Northern Lights candles sources all of its taper candles from factories in Germany that have been perfecting the art of taper making for centuries, Jamie Young Company works with artisans from more than 14 different countries and ensures that they are all fairly compensated for their work, and the same is true for Global Views which has introduced new hand-crafted accents from artisans in Italy, Poland, Portugal and Mexico.
It’s Marble-ous
From figurines to table and lamp bases, market attendees witnessed the popularity of white marble in many showrooms in Atlanta. Exhibitors say that natural stone, such as marble, is a great way to add a look of luxury to any setting due to its versatility and durability. From marble and wood accent tables at Global Views, to items such as white marble boxes, trays and serving boards from Napa Home & Garden, and a marble brie-warming set at Mud Pie, designers say that the number of options for incorporating this timeless stone are limitless.
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