I know many people believe our business is all one of trends and what the next current style, color, shape or pattern will be. I’ve never really worked from that principal and believe the designs we all create should be as timeless as possible. No matter what word you use to describe this style, (chic, sophisticated or architectural); its inherent tastefulness will keep it within the realm of good design. I believe the trends we do have to pay attention to are those that will stand the test of time. I know, you can’t always be sure, but being able to discriminate between kitsch and classic is important. From the standpoint of running a business it is also important to maintain a good eye for that which will sell and that which will sit on your shelf. Even the samples you choose for your library should be selected with the same eye for detail and longevity. At the same time, I know how exciting it can be to see a new trend, style, color or shape and just know it’s going to be the next hot ticket in interior design. To be able to define whatever it is and run with it is so much fun. Being the first in your area to have access to and understand some new trend is invaluable to your positioning in the community. It will once again set you apart from your peers as an expert in your field and prospective clients will be coming to you for design services, information and expertise. That’s a wonderful thing and very exciting.
I don’t know how to tell you to recognize a “new trend” or style or item but keeping current by visiting the showrooms, reading the shelter magazines and simply watching what’s going on around you will help. As with anything, I don’t suggest you spend your last penny trying to corner this particular market but try to find out as much as you can about the item, or whatever, to make an educated guess about it’s chance of almost universal appeal.
It’s also possible to spot a trend in what your current and prospective clients are excited about in the world of interior design. The easiest one of the moment is the Green Movement. Sustainability is the catch phrase and recycling is the mantra. That’s great but by now nothing new. What else is your client interested in? The new lighting trends? New fabrics made from bamboo? Recycled fabrics? Manufactured flooring? Keep an eye out for those types of trends and be ready to speak about them. Learn all you can about Bamboo flooring and start making the rounds talking about the product and how it impacts the environment. Once you have a portfolio of ideas and trends you can surf the wave of increased public interest in what you have to say. It helps position you as a professional interested in the community and the planet. That is a wave of enthusiasm we can all enjoy riding. Go out there and listen to what they are saying they want to know. Then, offer it.
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