Trendwatcher

Irene Vermeulen advises well-known home decoration brands about trends and consumer attitudes. Her insights hold the key to creating products that help brands stay ahead of the pack. An expert when it comes to everything handmade, she keeps track of the inside story on global crafts and handmade design on her Craftscurator weblog.

Vintage influences are a sign of the times. They reflect people’s search for enduring excellence in uncertain times.

Crafts revival

In Europe there really is a great crafts revival at the moment. Especially locally produced, interesting products are finding new markets. More and more, we are seeing people choose what they buy with care. They want to know about the stories behind the products, about their origins: who made them, where, why? On the one hand, this is because people are looking for a meaningful experience, a personal connection to the products they buy. On the other hand, it’s because in times of uncertainty people lean towards genuine relationships that will stand the test of time.

Sign of the times

The current interest in vintage is a sign of the times. People focus on vintage fashion and design because this connects them to a rich history of ideas and influences that have proved their worth. It represents an attitude that values originality and lasting quality, and looks for new products that incorporate these standards in state-of-the-art designs. And in spite of the economic crisis, people are willing to invest in an exceptional, high-quality product that has a special meaning for them.

Outdoor trends to look out for

You can expect to encounter more elegant, fragile forms and less bulky shapes. Mixing different styles and materials will enable you to create a unique personal space. There is an orientation towards pure shapes and an uncovering of layers that will reveal the materials and techniques used in construction. Basically, a focus on materials that speak for themselves, and a combination of styles that expresses your own taste.

Moving outdoors

Outdoor furniture trends have undergone a rapid transformation the last thirty years. Take the change in outdoor lounge furniture, for example. The components used to be large squares, filling the outdoor space. Now there is a trend towards lighter, more flexible, modular models, and towards mixing and matching diverse styles and colours to reflect your personal taste. And, of course, outdoor spaces have become an extension of the indoors environment. So now you can find every kind of indoor accessory for outdoor use, from carpets to lampshades, and even wallpaper.