January 2024

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Want the next generation to embrace old furniture? Try paint

  • January 31, 2024

At every talk I give on downsizing, the subject of handing furniture off to grown kids comes up. And every time I deliver the bad news: The kids don’t want your stuff. Invariably, parents moan and adult children cheer. 

“Don’t believe me?” I ask. “Just walk through any secondhand furniture store or visit Facebook Marketplace. They’re flooded with brown furniture no one wants.”

Today, however, I am sharing a happy exception: The Tale of the Mahogany Dresser.

Back in the 1950s, when my parents were newly married, they bought a mahogany bedroom set: a four-poster double bed, two nightstands and a double dresser. Fifteen or so years later, when I was about five, they got a new bedroom set, and I got the old one. (Big day!)

Several years later, without consulting me, they decided that mahogany was out and that a fruitwood finish would look better. Piece by piece, the furniture disappeared into the garage along with my father, who spent many nights and weekends sanding off the old, dark finish. One by one, the pieces reappeared in my room as lighter versions of their former selves.  

Many years later, when I finished school and moved to my first apartment, my parents gave me the bedroom set; it was all the furniture I owned. Eventually, I married and had children. When the oldest was out of a crib, the bedroom set became hers. When she got her first place, the bedroom set went along. 

This once mahogany dresser belonged to the author's parents. Some years ago, the author's daughter painted it white, and just recently transformed it again by painting it Deep Jungle Green. It's now in a nursery waiting to welcome a fourth generation. Painting old furniture can help good pieces stay in families for generations. (Courtesy Adam Nielson)
Some years ago, the author’s daughter painted this dresser white and just recently transformed it again by painting it Deep Jungle Green. (Courtesy Adam Nielson)

Not long after, she and her then-boyfriend decided to give the set a lighter look and painted all the pieces white. That might have been a good idea if the

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Expensive-Looking Furniture Pieces You Can Shop at Walmart Right Now

  • January 30, 2024

If you love the look of expensive, coveted furniture retailers such as Pottery Barn and West Elm furniture — but not the price tag — you need to start shopping at Walmart. The retailer has elevated their furniture game and is selling luxurious-looking designs that won’t break the bank, including bed frames, mattresses, sleeper sofas, couches, dining sets and dressers, all at an affordable price point.

Like got-it-all retailers like Amazon and Target, Walmart’s inventory is massive. To help you find a new stylish piece fit for your home, ET selected some of the best affordable furniture at Walmart that you can buy right now. From expensive-looking home decor to design-forward furniture pieces from brands such as Nathan James, Gap Home and Queer Eye, our list has something for everyone whether you can’t get enough of mid-century modern, boho, farmhouse or glam decor.

Keep scrolling to discover chic, expensive-looking furniture from Walmart.

Queer Eye Liam Futon

Queer Eye Liam Futon

Walmart

Queer Eye Liam Futon

Who said futons only belong in dorm rooms? This green velvet sleeper sofa from Netflix’s Fab Five passes as a regular couch. Measuring 79 inches long and 33 inches deep, it easily converts between sitting, lounging and sleeping positions.

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A Fusion Of High Design And Modern Luxury.

  • January 29, 2024

In the bustling heart of New York City’s design district, a new landmark has emerged on the landscape of contemporary design. Kartell, the iconic Italian furniture brand, has opened its flagship store, setting a new benchmark in luxury and innovation in home decor.

Since its inception in 1949, Kartell has firmly established itself as a beacon of innovation in the world of design, and is particularly celebrated for its iconic plastic furniture pieces. The brand’s distinctive look is further accentuated through its collaborations with globally acclaimed designers, among them, the partnership with Philippe Starck and most notably his creation of the ‘Ghost Chair’, a marvel of design that captures Kartell’s ethos of blending artistic vision with groundbreaking execution.

The new store is a testament to Kartell’s evolving vision about not just showcasing products but rather immersing visitors in a world where design meets life. This shift reflects a keen understanding of the changing dynamics in consumer engagement. In an era where experience is as valuable as the product, Kartell is sculpting spaces that tell stories. The store is arranged not merely as a series of furniture displays, but as a series of interconnected vignettes, each narrating a different aspect of the contemporary lifestyle that Kartell envisions.

I spoke with Lorenza Luti, Kartell’s Director of Marketing and Retail, to delve into the inspiration behind the new venture, driving expansion while adhering to their core values, and her vision for the future of Kartell.

Jennifer Lee: Lorenza, tell me more about the vision behind opening your first Flagship Store in New York City and how does this location differ from

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15 Early Presidents’ Day Furniture Sales to Shop Now: Wayfair, Burrow and More

  • January 28, 2024

Some furniture brands’ official Presidents’ Day sales haven’t started yet, but many are already offering great deals now, ahead of the Feb. 19 holiday. 

Presidents’ Day is one of the best times of year to buy big-ticket items such as appliances, high-priced tech, luggage and — you guessed it — furniture. Whether you’re furnishing your bedroom or upgrading your home office, there are early Presidents’ Day furniture deals you can shop now that will help level up your living space — and save money in the process.

If you want to fill an empty space with an accent chair or redecorate your room to make it more your own, you’ll want to take advantage of some of the best furniture sales we’ve seen this year. It’s hard to believe, thanks to winter weather hitting us hard now, but spring is just around the corner. There are incredible markdowns on home essentials and comfy furniture that will help get your space ready for the new season. 

Retailers like WayfairWest Elm, Walmart and Lulu and Georgia are offering everything from furniture to area rugs and home decor at major discounts. Some carry affordable and trendy pieces, while others focus on higher-end handmade designs.

To help you find the fixtures that fit your personal style and budget, we’ve rounded up all the best Presidents’ Day furniture deals you can shop today. Plus, we’ve added info based on previous years’ sales so you know what to expect come Presidents’ Day Weekend.

The Best Early Presidents’ Day Furniture Sales of 2024

Allform

Allform

Allform

Allform

Allform is known for its high-quality, custom modular sofas, love seats, armchairs and sectionals. Last year’s Allform’s Presidents’ Day sale involved saving 20% off sitewide. A similar deal is available on the site currently. Just use code NEWYR20

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Omaha couple open vintage furniture shop

  • January 27, 2024

Elise Schaecher didn’t begin collecting vintage furniture because she saw a business opportunity.







Elise Schaecher

Elise Schaecher, the owner of A Little More Like Home, sits in her shop at 3801 Dodge St. on Wednesday.




Schaecher and her husband, Jeff Schaecher, just wanted their new house to feel a little more like home. They wanted to find sturdy, childproof furniture that fit well with the architecture of their 1958 house.  

Three years later, the Schaechers have made their house a home and in the process found a shared passion for finding, restoring and now selling vintage furniture. After opening an online store in 2021, they opened a brick-and-mortar store at 38th and Dodge Streets in September.

“We found out we were more compatible than we expected, I guess, because we both really have the interest in it, and we enjoy the research and seeing the pieces go on their journey of restoration,” Elise Schaecher said.

The store’s name, A Little More Like Home, reflects the original intention of their journey. 

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The Schaechers specifically sell mid-century modern furniture from the 1960s and 1970s.  Elise Schaecher said furniture from that era has clean lines and lacks the fuss of other design styles. 

“More traditional things will have more frills and embellishments, but mid-century modern was like just focusing on the form and the function,” Schaecher said. “Geometric shapes. Just like bright colors.”







Rewired, refinished, restored

A Little More Like Home sells vintage dressers, desks, couches, lamps, side tables and home decor. Many of the pieces have been rewired, refinished or restored.




Inside the store last week, Schaecher had vintage lamps, artwork, desks, couches, dressers, dishes and coffee tables for sale. One lamp was bright yellow. Another lamp hung from a chain attached to the ceiling

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IKEA expands in the Philippines, writes a new chapter for the country’s furniture capital

  • January 24, 2024

“We are thrilled to bring our full suite of delivery and assembly services to the many Filipinos in Visayas and Mindanao,” he says, “while also prioritizing sustainability and reducing our environmental impact,” emphasized IKEA Philippines Country Fulfilment Operations Manager Jarek Lesniewski.

Cebu, with its rich history in furniture design and craftsmanship, stands to benefit significantly from this expansion. The introduction of IKEA’s affordable, stylish range complements the existing market, offering more choices for consumers and potentially inspiring local artisans and designers.

As we look to the future, IKEA’s expansion in Cebu is more than just a business move. It’s a cultural integration, a blend of global and local, of modernity and tradition. It respects Cebu’s status as the Furniture Capital of the Philippines while introducing new trends and sustainable practices. This expansion is not just about furniture; it’s about shaping the future of living spaces in Cebu and beyond.

For those eager to embrace this new era of home furnishing, visit www.IKEA.ph or download the IKEA Shopping app. The digital doors are open, inviting Cebu, and the rest of the Philippines, to a world where style, sustainability, and convenience seamlessly converge.

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Luxury Redefined: Opulent and Exclusive Furniture Trends in Hospitality Industry

  • January 23, 2024

Opulence and exclusivity have become integral components in creating an unforgettable guest experience in the ever-evolving hospitality industry landscape. The strategic use of high-end, luxurious furniture contributes significantly to the overall ambiance.

Hospitality furniture manufacturers embrace sustainable practices, eco-friendly designs, and customization to meet the changing demands of the industry. This transformation is like never before!

Role of Opulent and Exclusive Furniture in Redefining Luxury

The concept of luxury has evolved beyond mere comfort. Opulent furniture remains central to crafting immersive and memorable guest experiences. Bespoke furniture redefines luxury within hospitality spaces. 

It establishes an enduring connection with guests and creates an environment where every piece contributes to a memorable experience. It creates beautiful spaces and crafts an emotional connection with guests, leaving a lasting impression beyond their stay. 

Top Furniture Trends in the Hospitality Industry

The commercial interior design reshapes the luxury landscape of the spaces such as hotels, restaurants, and more. The meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail in opulent designs evoke a sense of artistry. Here are the top furniture trends in the hospitality industry:

Craftsmanship

Luxury interior design in the hospitality sector is characterised by impeccable craftsmanship. The guests seek luxury, comfort, and aesthetics in the spaces with visually appealing pieces. From intricately carved wooden pieces to handcrafted upholstery, each item is a testament to the skill, dedication, and artisanal excellence.

Sustainability Practices

The definition of opulence is evolving to incorporate sustainable practices within restaurant interior design. High-end hotels invest in furniture crafted from ethically sourced materials. It promotes environmental responsibility without compromising on luxury. Moreover, sustainable luxury furniture showcases a commitment to both aesthetic and ecological values.

Technological Integration

Modern luxury extends beyond aesthetics and embraces cutting-edge technology in contract furniture. It

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Why furniture prices are falling amid ongoing inflation

  • January 20, 2024

After skyrocketing price increases over the past few years, furniture retailers are seeing a pandemic recovery slump amid ongoing inflation. Lazzoni Modern Furniture analyzed Bureau of Labor Statistics data to see what’s behind the fall.

According to the Department of Labor, market inflation rose to 5.3% in the 12 months leading up to August 2021—it was a huge leap, considering inflation spikes had averaged around 1.7% over the prior 10 years. The pandemic wrought massive shipping and supply issues, creating supply chain disruptions. The expensive costs that manufacturers and sellers had to cover due to these supply chain disruptions—combined with the profit loss they needed to make up for—led to increased prices of goods and services, fueling high inflation.

A McKinsey & Company survey found that, by the end of 2021, most companies experiencing supply chain challenges had increased their inventories, meaning businesses spent more to stock up.

Economic challenges resulting from the pandemic heavily impacted furniture prices. Since 2019, furniture prices have seen massive changes: Prices jumped significantly in the 12 months ending October 2021 as the world grappled with the COVID-19 outbreak (12%) and, by August 2022, had outpaced the growth rate of market inflation, according to an analysis of year-to-year BLS data.

However, as the U.S. economy entered recovery in 2023, consumer spending slowed while housing prices soared, which caused a ripple effect on the housing market. Subsequently, furniture retailers experienced drops in revenue, leading companies to slash product prices to make sales.

Even as the pandemic-induced inflation has cooled, sticker shock often plagues consumers who still remember pre-pandemic prices. That’s because prices tend to be “downwardly rigid,” Mike Konczal, Roosevelt Institute’s director of macroeconomic analysis, explained to Vox, meaning companies that raise their prices don’t usually lower them again.

Lazzoni Modern Furniture
Lazzoni Modern Furniture Lazzoni Modern Furniture
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Madison Liquidators Finalizes the Onboarding of The Tahoe Series Outdoor Office Furniture

  • January 1, 2024

MADISON, Wis., Dec. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Madison Liquidators has completed the rollout of the outdoor office furniture series, Tahoe, from Via Seating. The Tahoe Series includes innovative outdoor office furniture pieces in the form of benches, picnic tables, sunshades, bench swings, planters, and outdoor garbage cans. The line focuses on creating comfortable workspaces outside of modern office, education, and healthcare facilities. Being able to offer consumers a complete line of outdoor furniture has marked a shift for the company, with the goal of covering various commercial spaces, conventional and unconventional.

Tahoe Series Outdoor Business Furniture is now available at Madison Liquidators

According to the manufacturer, the Tahoe Series is a collection with timeless appeal that utilizes clean lines and classic and modern elements, all executed with simplicity. It was created by Italian designers from entirely recyclable materials that remain durable in a variety of weather conditions. Madison Liquidators believes that this new collection aims to redefine traditional work environments by offering ergonomic, durable, and stylish solutions for professionals seeking a refreshing and versatile workspace outdoors.

Key features of the new outdoor office furniture line include weather-resistant materials, which ensure durability and longevity in outdoor conditions. They also boast an ergonomic design, as each piece magnifies comfort and supports correct posture. The contemporary aesthetics of the line allow sleek and modern-style elements to complement outdoor environments and create visually appealing workspaces. The Tahoe Series is a modern spin on traditional outdoor office furniture pieces that are designed to elevate the ambiance of outdoor spaces around work, schools, and medical facilities.

All of the pieces are available in classic wood-effect finishes using heat transfer film or dipped-look polyester powder coat colors. While the wood effect mixes the natural with the modern for outdoor furniture styled for its time, the five matte color choices of the galvanized steel-dipped options add fun

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