I believe there is a strong link between furniture trends (and interior trends in general) and architecture trends. The past 10 years has been dominated by European designs, both inside and out. This is especially true in Utah. And has been perpetuated by the pervasive dominance of Landform architects, who effectively dictate trends to America due to the sheer volume of designs they sell to the nations largest builders. The European trend includes variations on English, Italian Villa, Mediterranean, Gothic, and most notably: French Country. From antiqued finishes on lighting and plumbing fixtures to faux paint and stucco treatments - the movement has been about the "old world." To me the style can feel warm and cozy, but it also feels dark and old.

I'm ecstatic to see that I'm not alone. The trends have shifted, nation-wide. I love the re-emergence of the arts & crafts style. A throwback to a very similar time in our country's history.

Craftsman style (which can include bungalow, cottage, and other arts & crafts styles) is a much needed shift in current trends. This style is defined by:
Wood, stone, or stucco siding
Low-pitched roof
Wide eaves with triangular brackets or corbels
Exposed roof rafters
Porch with thick columns
Stone porch supports
Exterior stone chimney
Open floor plans; few hallways
Numerous 4-over-1 or 6-over-1 sash windows
Beamed ceilings
Detailed finish carpentry work, wainscoting, moldings, etc.
Built-in cabinets, shelves, and seating
The use of natural materials found at the site or in the surrounding region
Efficient use of space. Numerous cubbies, shelves, window seats, and hidden storage

The style is pure-American. Without waxing political, I believe there's a subconscious desire in American's do support things that are AMERICAN. In fact, this style first emerged in the early 1900's for similar reasons. One of our companies, Lake City Custom Homes, has built several craftsman homes over the past few years. Two of them were in the SLC Parade of Homes. And the feedback from the thousands of people walking through the homes was very telling: "This is so different from everything else! I love this! What a breath of fresh air!"



Walk through furniture stores today (e.g. RC Willey) and you'll see an obvious shift away from the gaudy, ornate furnishings that belong in European homes. Instead you'll find transitional or even contemporary furniture (e.g. Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, Restoration Hardware). Talk to the designers and sales people and they'll confirm it. Furniture trends change much more often (and more subtly) than architecture - for obvious reasons. If interior trends are any indication, I believe a big shift is coming. Even Landform is modifying their elevations to reflect this shift.



Obviously certain areas of the country have well-known regional styles. But nationally, outside of large, custom homes, the past has been - well - blah. It's nice to see the shift.