Contemporary


Monday, April 18th, 2011

Will the “iPad” Replace Store Catalogs?

iPads are quite prevalent in the furniture industry.  Recently I attended the International Furniture Market in High Point, North Carolina, and iPads were everywhere.  In a sales meeting a sales rep pointed out that he carries all of his product photos and order forms on on his iPad and can give a presentation to a furniture store owner seamlessly.  Furniture factories are underwriting iPads for their salesforce because of all the money saved on photos.  Some companies spend upwards of $25,000 annually on such photos.

Along those lines, a retail salesperson will be able to virtually carry every item in the store under their arm.  All sofa fabrics will be current (no more reelections…).  No more walking back to a catalog room and fumbling for the right catalog (probably missing anyway…).  Also, a salesperson will be able search their iPad for a category and item, then check with supplier on availability.

So, thanks Apple for changing the way furniture is sold!

Wednesday, July 21st, 2010

Contemporary vs. Contemporary

S7350Are you in style? Does your home have a look that would be considered cool by today’s standards? If so, then your home probably has a contemporary or modern look to it. But what does “contemporary” really mean?

Many times people classify contemporary as a distinct style that doesn’t encompass other design styles. Commonly, and un-knowingly, they think furniture considered contemporary is something they are most likely to find in an upscale art gallery in New York city. What they fail to realize is that the word contemporary simply means “of the present time,” and this can encompass a broad range of designs.

“Artsy” furniture, the most common label for contemporary furniture, is likely to be found in urban locations and lofts. This furniture often has flare and is extremely simple. Furniture pieces in this category are not always adorned with straight lines, but typically showcase curved lines to give them a unique look and shape. Leather and microfibers are usually the upholstery of choice in this case.

If you are looking to stay within the contemporary style but want more of a straight lined look, then look for pieces that are of Danish or Scandinavian design. Contemporary Scandinavian designers often use straight lines in their designs and leave their pieces unadorned and crafted of walnut and teak. Sometimes their pieces will have gentle curves, but these will not be at a premium.

Finally, minimalist styled furniture takes the contemporary look to the extreme and is known for its use of straight lines. The Minimalist approach was inspired by Bauhaus design and puts emphasis on free space, functionality, and economical design. You won’t find a lot of furniture in a minimalistic room. Instead, you will find one of two pieces accompanied by a lot of space.

Whether its straight lined or curvy lines, minimalistic or urban, visit your local PMD Furniture Direct ™ franchisee and shop their massive selection of contemporary furniture from the Royal Heritage Home Furnishings Collection and give your home the modern style you are looking for!