I have just returned from the 2012 Atlanta accessory and furniture market with the newest home fashion trends. I was excited to see all the amazing new furniture and accessories collections! Here are some of the highlights of my journey.

One of the hottest new design trends shown can be summed up one word – reclaimed. Almost any piece of wood that has been salvaged, painted, worn, washed, scraped or distressed has been made into furniture. Exciting new collections for bedrooms, dining rooms and occasional table pieces lined the showrooms floors. Oak has returned and made a big showing with light driftwood and charcoal finishes framed with metal accents. Recycled glass and metal were also thrown in the mix of accenting wood pieces. Natural fibers of cotton and linen in neutral colors adorned with large nailhead trim blanketed upholstery pieces. The Parisian French flea market look is still showing strong with the addition of color accents by layering large throw pillows in navy, turquoise and coral.

The most exciting trend was the return of the coastal inspired collections. This look has always played a large part in the design scheme for our local area, but has now landed on the national scene. Shades of navy and tranquil blue-green colors mixed among sand colored linen fabrics complemented distressed furniture pieces. A few star highlights that grabbed my attention were nautical rope tables, stacked abundantly with coastal accessories. Aqua colored sea glass, driftwood, coral and tortoise shells are some of the sea inspired accessories that were beaming like jewels lying on the beach.
The coastal design trend has always been a staple look for clients here – these natural ocean gems are in our lives every day. The coast is happy, relaxing and comforting! No wonder the rest of the world wants to decorate their homes like this as well.

We’re lucky to live at the beach!