We had an awesome time at the Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market!  The sea of furnishings and textiles made for a sensory wonderland.   It was both exciting and calming at the same time.  The design trends pay homage to a very-deserving Mother Nature.  Where else can we find the energy of the sun shining on a rainbow of flowers balanced by the comforting shade of tall trees and cool earth? The great outdoors, of course!  The inspiration is  clear and the designs are magnificent!

Spring green - The colors that hearken most to nature are taking center stage.  Everywhere we looked we saw the spring greens reminiscent of new grass and thick foliage. Wall canvases featured trees and grassy hillsides. The updated use of multiple shades of green breathes new life into the classic landscape canvas.  It even adds a little kick to the traditional greenery in tablescapes. 

Natural fibers – The designs featured natural materials that have maintained the appearance of their natural state.  Options included  minimally-dyed linen and cotton embellished with natural coloring agents.  Comforters and throws made of nubby knits were spread over beds while textured fabrics in neutral shades covered ottomans.  Natural linens made the overstuffed chairs and chic sofas look cool, calm and collected.

Reclaimed and repurposed – The designs didn’t just mimic the look of nature.  Lots of furniture and accessory pieces were made from reclaimed wood.  There were cocktail tables and bowls made of reclaimed wood accompanied by accent pieces made of interwoven sticks that looked like birds nests. The appreciation of nature extended beyond just creating pieces that looked like things found in nature.  It inspired the reuse and repurposing of materials.  Just think…  lamps made from rustic tin containers and glass bottles repurposed as transparent centerpieces that show off anything you put inside.

Animals, birds and insects -  Animals were definitely scene stealers!  Birds were  the most popular amongst  the cast of wildlife characters.  Everything from framed sketches of owls to oil paintings of horses provided just the right finishing touches.  Even ceramic sheep made an appearance.  Figurines of birds and butterflies were popular too.  These little winged  beauties can add a whimsical element to your space making it feel even prettier.

So, nature lovers get ready to indulge!  No need to wait  until spring to get outdoors.  This year’s designs have plenty of opportunity to bring the outdoors in.