CORT Trade Show & Event Furnishings announced its top event and meeting furnishings design trends for 2017. Highlights of the report include the rise of organic and earthy environments, and the use of the unlikely mix of materials, like wood, marble and metallic finishes for eclectic modern design. Functionality is also important, especially for connectivity and mobility.
Kevin Dana, executive director of marketing and product development at CORT Events, shared the following insights on trending furnishing design elements for 2017.
Meetings Today: How does CORT determine what will be trending?
Kevin Dana: Every year I travel to various furniture markets around the world to learn about the latest trends in home furnishing design, fashion, decor and lighting. Based on my research, experience and education, I synthesize overall market trends and distill them for the meeting, exposition and event industry.
MT: Can you explain why natural and organic elements in design are trending?
KD: I think it’s because the world is so chaotic and fast-paced, and technology is ever changing; natural environments inspired by organic and Earth-centric elements help people relax and provide a sense of calm in this hectic world.
MT: And how is this trend is different from the more rustic elements that have been popular in recent years?
KD: The rustic, farm-to-table trend was more limited in that it was a theme and not really suitable for corporate meetings. Eclecticism and urban industrial design is more accessible to the masses and feels fresh because of the mix of styles.
MT: The report lists Mid-Century and Danish Modern-inspired design as trends for the year. How do you achieve this look beyond furniture?
KD: Rich textured fabrics in Earth tones and soft grays help provide the palette for furnishings and Mid-Century-inspired lamps, artwork, decor and rugs can be added to complete the look. I’m a big fan of faux fur, velvets and materials like marble to add a lush feel to event spaces.
MT: How do these trends incorporate the F&B experience?
KD: In the mid-20th century, entertaining at home was a big trend. This lends itself perfectly to the meeting and event industry because it’s all about hospitality. Smaller plates, sharable and bite-size appetizers make for a more social event where people can connect around the food, and the furnishings need to facilitate this communal experience. Use ottomans and large sectionals to create small and large vignettes near the food with plenty of accent and communal tables for drinks.
Click here to check out CORT's blog post on top event design trends for 2017.
