5 Patio Furniture Trends for 2018
There are several halls dedicated to outdoor living at trade show CIFF, based in Guangzhou,China, and the 2018 event had rows and rows of exhibitors showcasing loungers, couches, chairs, hammocks and more. Frank A. Reinhardt, a trend researcher based in Germany, helped attendees put it all into perspective during a tour at the show, and highlighted trends in outdoor furniture. Here are five major takeaways for garden center retailers to note in 2018:
1. The garden has evolved and become the second living room.
To meet this demand, the quality of patio furniture has improved, and many manufacturers are using multiple materials and designing pieces to look more like what`s found in living and family rooms. During the tour, we saw furniture made of wicker-like, weather-resistant material, Mid-century Modern inspiration, indoor/outdoor rugs and ergonomic designs for maximum comfort. Customers will want products that can help them create cozy, outdoor retreats this spring, complete with rugs, lamps and accessories that can withstand the elements and look good doing it. Several garden centers market their products well, using them to create complete outdoor vignettes to stimulate ideas for customers, which has mastered inspirational garden displays. People want outdoor living spaces, whether they have a vast suburban backyard or a tiny apartment balcony. Furniture designed for small spaces (and with multiple functions) is still in demand, too.