The Real Reasons Interior Designers Go to Market (It’s Not Just for Trends)
If you follow me or any other designer on social media during Market time, you may think it’s a week-long furniture party! We definitely have our time of fun, but we also get to experience the latest and greatest upcoming trends, attend educational panel discussions, and reconnect with designers from around the country. We’re also able to meet the fabricators and owners behind the products, my favorite part. Today, I’m sharing 3 reasons designers attend markets, and how you benefit.
Reason #1: Building Vendor Relationships
Visiting vendors at Market allows us to deeply understand the meaning behind the brand. By brand, I mean the product. This year I was able to personally meet the makers and designers and understand why they designed a piece of furniture and the inspiration behind it. One specific area of focus this trip was to meet the makers that are being mindful of waste and incorporating sustainable materials.
Reason #2: Testing Furniture
With more than 11.5 million square feet of showroom space spread across 180 buildings, there are plenty of opportunities for exploring and discovering new products. And it’s a wonderful opportunity for the "sit tests.” In our industry, it is important to sit in as many products as possible so we can weed out the good and bad for our clients.
Reason #3: Understanding Design Innovations
My focus this year and years to come is sustainability and wellness in our homes. It’s refreshing to see more and more manufactures putting their focus into this, as well. Attending educational panel discussions at Market expands our knowledge of what our colleagues are doing to incorporate this into their practice. It also allows the opportunity to hear valuable insights from the vendors.
For me, attending Fall Market is the equivalent of a 5-year-old experiencing Disney World for the first time. It’s a time for inspiration and connection, and it gives us an insight into the future of the design industry. In the end, attending Market allows me to provide the best design services for my clients, which is truly what makes it worthwhile for me.
Wondering how our latest Market trip can benefit your next project? Give us a call. We love chatting about our experiences and vendor relationships!
Until next time,
Trisha