Pamela deVries
BRANT NEWS

This year’s Canadian Home Furnishing Market, held Jan. 12 to Jan. 15 in Toronto, was a celebration of colour.

With the economy starting to feel a little brighter, we see that transitioning into the furnishing market, as well.

It was also a year of new product, much more than the last couple of years, which is also encouraging. We are very fortunate, as I have mentioned before in my articles, to have such quality companies right here in our own backyard, but there were also interesting hits for me in the import section.

Grey is still a colour of interest and we see this popping up in all the better quality dining sets. New additions in grey stains have been added, my favorite a new light grey-taupe shade.

It was interesting to note that white is back again for dining, as well as bleached woods that were very popular a few years back. Dining chairs with higher backs are in vogue, but there were many new shorter-backed chairs with modern tailored lines. Fabrics highlight these looks in beautiful, punchy colours or modern patterns.

Bertanie, Bermex and Midi had some of my favorite looks in wooden dining settings. Pricing ranges from moderate to high-end, but the products are excellent quality.

My favorite contemporary metal, wood, glass mix sets were those from Trica and Amisco. Tricas introduction of end tables, ottomans and easy fold-out dining tables and minimal media units allow a small space to convert in a snap. Metals, woods and soft coverings allow for height and texture dynamics and the tuck away stools are great for families with children or extra seating in a pinch. They are made to fit into interesting configurations, allowing for an almost artistic dynamic.

Amisco, already known for its great seating and tables, has introduced a new line of sleek beds and contemporary chair-ottoman combinations. I love the beds and they can be given extra bling with the addition of crystals, which were huge in many types of furnishings at the show.

I was fortunate to speak briefly to Jane Lockhart about her new furniture line, “Jane.”  Many of you will recognize her from her TV design show called Colour Confidential. Jane partnered with Korson Furniture Design and Statum Designs Inc., two top Canadian furnishing companies, to create her line.

Not only were the pieces pleasing to the eye, but every item I sat in was extremely comfortable. The clean lines and classic appeal allows for modern or traditional decor. Fabrics are carefully chosen and pieces can be customized for clients.  Prices are affordable, ranging from approximately $1,300 to $2,000 for the average sofa, but higher-grade fabric selections or added details may increase costs. That is well within reason for this quality and should appeal to a wide market.

Jane’s muted stains for her end and cocktail tables maintain a relaxed, unique look that compliments her upholstered goods. I believe she has a huge hit on her hands.

So much to cover and so little space. Stay tuned for more next week.

Pamela deVries is a certified interior decorator, www.pameladevriesdesigns.com.