upholstery trends 2010

Upholstery fabrics today are shifting from the traditional and neutral to be an expression of a homeowner’s personality.

“While in the past couple of years most changes have been centered on the weaving techniques that add textures: chenille and smooth yarns woven in tapestry, embroidery, appliqued motifs with ribbons, tucking, and similar details,” according to Tanna Miller of Trends & Traditions.

David Buffington of Brentwood Interiors says, “Naturals seem to be increasing in popularity, especially linens and the linen look.”

He adds that browns combined with other colors remain strong, with oranges, grays, and greens gaining favor.

Reporting that fabric texture is becoming the selling point is Ann Myrick of Interior Remix. She encourages home decorators to embrace the fun patterns and textures available.

Lynda Mosley with The Fabric House says the trend is away from traditional patterns and toward a more traditional or modern look.

“Linens and wovens with texture have become more sophisticated and Nashvillians no longer want the same color palette. Their taste varies from cream to robin’s egg blue to bold blacks and reds. Grey is gaining popularity, especially in contemporary spaces.

“Upholstery fabrics are increasingly taking center stage by becoming a focal point or an inspiration to a room’s decor, rather than traditionally blending in to become the neutral player,” says Sharon Rampenthal of Ta-Dah Designs.

Anna Aycock of Designs by Anna Aycock suggests that “In keeping with the Green Movement, the newest rage is organic cotton. “Organic cotton with a variety of textures is showing up in the bedroom and family room,” she says. “Wovens and leathers are the most popular materials,” she adds, and reports that silver/gray, cool green, and chocolate are in demand.

Upholstery fabrics can also be used in draperies and cornices, according to Camille Moore. “Upholstery fabric is nice in applications with high ceilings, since the fabric is usually a little stiffer and keeps its shape and won’t billow,” she says.

Patrick Dougherty with Merridian Home Furnishings reports that he is seeing a trend toward the use of global and ethnic prints such as Ikat, to inject both color and eclectic styles into neutral palettes. “The function of your room will determine the types of fabrics with more durable ones in high-use areas and more luxurious ones in private spaces. According to Dougherty, urban neutrals are being paired with pops of color such as greys and taupes with accents of orange, turquoise, pinks, or yellow.

Durable fabrics are needed in family areas, agrees Gail Hancock of Baylor Bone Interiors. “More formal rooms can make use of silks and other fabrics that won't stand daily wear and tear,” she says.

There are a number of sources for upholstery fabric in the Nashville area including:

Baylor Bone Interiors
Hendersonville
615/ 822-3199

Brentwood Interiors
Brentwood
615/ 376-6361

Camille Moore
Franklin
615/ 794-9249

Designs by Anna Aycock
Brentwood
615/ 794-7561

The Fabric House
Nashville
615/ 837-0000

Fabric Junkie
Goodlettsville
615 851-1007

Interior Remix
Brentwood
615/ 376-8994

Merridian Home Furnishings
Nashville
615/ 463-0555

Ta-Dah Designs
Hendersonville
615/ 824-0888

Trends & Traditions
Nashville
615/ 399-0661