Casual Market Chicago – September 20-23, 2016
A recent American Institute of Architects study has shown that outdoor living areas top the list as one of the most popular requests from potential buyers. And the National Association of Realtors 2016 Remodeling Impact Report confirms that outdoor remodeling projects add considerable resale value, while increasing homeowners’ satisfaction. The desire for indoor-outdoor transitional living has firmly caught on across the country to incorporate “a seamless transition” between the two spaces.
In response to the growing demand for outdoor living, manufacturers have “upped the ante” and are creating unique furniture to bring the luxury of interiors to the outdoors. Casual Market, based at the Merchandise Mart in Chicago, exhibits the latest trends in color, design, pattern, and more all under one roof. This year, the Kleber & Associates team swept the aisles in search of the latest and greatest in outdoor living. Two particular trends stood out to our team: cool-tone hues and bold stripes.
Cool-Tone Hues
Over the last decade, neutral tones have reigned supreme in the outdoor living world. This year, however, manufacturers have broken the beige mold, and have begun to utilize cool tones to bring a fresh feel to the outdoors. Fabrics in pale lavender, grey, and teal covered furniture in showrooms at the Mart. Mallin Casual Furniture and Brown Jordan were just two manufacturers who exemplified this cool trend.
Bold Stripes
While the K&A team walked through the mart, we could have sworn we were in the French Riviera. Bold stripes reminded us of a modern interpretation of classic Cote D’Azur style. Armchairs, loveseats, and chaise lounges were tastefully displayed throughout showrooms and added a touch of glamour. Erwin and Sons and Summer Classic explored this swanky trend with their designs aimed at fashionable consumers.
