loose ends has always focused on a casual, laid-back lifestyle, and we think this approach to home decorating is only going to get stronger. Comfort, both physical and psychological, are primary considerations for most of us now. The terms “cocooning” and “nesting” are indicative of what we are looking for when we bring “stuff” into our home. We want things that make US feel good, not just make an impression on the neighbors. At the same time, we want things that DO say something about us, who we are (or like to think we are), what our interests are, our hobbies, etc. We want our homes to be personal, not just “correct”. That being said, what are some of the directions we see home décor going this next year?

As we said, casual will be the top consideration, but that can mean many things to many people. For some it will be soft, overstuffed, country decorating, for others it might be the “shabby chic” of real or reproduction “antiques”, and for still others it may be living your vacation fantasies with bamboo furniture and a tropical look. Personally, we think that bamboo, in all it’s many personalities will become more and more popular as people realize how versatile the medium is and how ecologically responsible it is. If you have been to our showroom, then you know that bamboo is something of an addiction for us as we keep expanding the different types of furniture and accessories we make in this wonderful “grass”!

People travel much more now too, even if they only do it via the Travel Channel. European styles are popular and we predict, will continue to be a strong and growing influence on our taste in home furnishings, but again, with casual being the operative word here too. Italian and French country fit that bill, and have the added bonus of being easy to introduce into an existing décor.

Natural themes are also going to continue to grow. Animal print patterns have been popular for a number of years, and will continue to be, but we see them becoming almost classics, able to blend and accent in many different decors, and not needing to stand alone in a “safari” style. Also in the natural category are fruits and vegetables. We think you will be seeing a LOT of these in everything from fabrics to tableware. Also be watching for faux food – a bowl of fake eggs on the countertop, three big faux cabbage heads as the basis for a centerpiece, a garlic braid to tie back the kitchen curtains, some clusters of faux grapes peeking over the top of a cupboard.