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Success by Design - Mastering the Business of Interior Design
2024 Las Vegas Summer Market with Diana Rushton
If you're an interior designer—or in the biz—you know what time of year it is! It's time for our Las Vegas Summer Market 2024 trends review! What’s changed since the High Point Market? Did anything surprising show up? And is the Vegas Market even going to be a thing in the future?
Our very own Diana Rushton joins us for another market review! She’s coming to us from the Vegas Summer Market and revealing all that’s trending. From textures and color palettes to furniture and lighting—she’s captured it all! All that and more is heading your way when you press play! Oh, and don’t miss this week’s Coaching Corner where I reveal how I’ve found trends valuable in my business.
In this episode, we cover:
High Point vs Vegas Market trends in 2024
What’s in or out for lighting & texture trends
What to know about the Vegas trends for various price points
What took Di by surprise at the summer 2024 Vegas market
How to make the smartest choice about which market to go to & when
What’s your biggest takeaway from the Vegas Summer Market? Share with us on LinkedIn!
More about Diana Rushton
Diana specializes in project management and interior design. She likes that the partnership between project management and design work fulfills her lifelong love of art and puzzles. Diana feels she's found her true calling with 15 years of experience in brick-and-mortar, e-commerce, residential, and commercial design. She strives to create beautifully inspired work with each project while bringing transparency to the process. You'll probably find her sipping iced coffee or petting as many puppies as possible when she's not designing or managing projects.
Links and Mentioned Resources
Connect with Diana Rushton
This episode is brought to you by Nello Marelli
Struggling to stay ahead with the ever-evolving design trends while running your business? Discover the secret weapon of the design world - the 2025 Nel Colore Color Trend Book. Crafted by the renowned Italian designer Nello Morelli, whose expertise guides luxury brands from Milan to Paris, this tool is now stateside with our partnership. Get exclusive access to future color trends, combinations, and sociological insights up to two years in advance, ensuring your designs stand out. Elevate your projects and leave the trend-watching to us. Find the Nel Colore Color Trend Book, along with a mini version, exclusively in The Studio.
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More about Success by Design: Mastering the business of interior design
As an interior designer, do you struggle with balancing your passion for creativity with the practical demands and hopes of running a successful business? Whether starting a new venture or scaling an existing firm, the complexities can be overwhelming. Welcome to “Success by Design: Mastering the Business of Interior Design,” a podcast designed to bridge the gap between creativity and entrepreneurship.
This masterclass is hosted by the dynamic Katie Decker-Erickson, a seasoned expert with nearly 20 years of experience in interior design, a Master's degree in Business Administration, and creator and owner of a multimillion-dollar interior design firm.
Each episode offers innovative and actionable business strategies, engaging conversations, and practical guidance to help you build and grow a successful design business. Tune in every other Friday on YouTube or any of your favorite podcast platforms to ignite your creative spark and sharpen your entrepreneurial skills. (Topics and language are kid/family friendly.)
This post may contain affiliate links, so I may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on my site at no additional cost to you.
This episode of Success by Design: Mastering the Business of Interior Design is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co.
The unedited podcast transcript for this episode of the Success by Design: Mastering the business of interior design follows
Katie (00:02.122)
Di, welcome back to the show. We're so glad to have you back. no, we're so excited because for all of us that don't go to market, we're like, yay, we get a fill in because there's a lot of markets and it's a lot to keep track of and a lot to do. had High Point, you had Vegas, you had, it's just a lot. So today we find you in Vegas.
Diana (00:05.324)
I'm so excited.
Diana (00:23.564)
Vegas.
Katie (00:24.883)
Vegas, fresh off High Point because, and if you missed our High Point podcast, we'll put it in the show notes so you know where High Point was at. I love that we have an East West Coast differential and it'd be fun to compare those in a second. But then also it's great because we can see what trends have changed even since High Point, which is kind of where I wanna start. Let's start with High Point versus Vegas as we've seen it in the last few weeks. So you were at High Point, what are you already seeing change at Vegas?
Diana (00:42.593)
right.
Katie (00:54.228)
that is on its way out from High Point.
Diana (00:58.414)
would say the biggest thing is that some vendors call it corduroy, but it's channeled almost, like in upholstery. Where some of them have a really chunky, furry looking raised pile. And just these mass sofas and chaises. And they're cozy. Don't get me wrong, they're so cozy.
Katie (01:06.291)
Yeah.
Diana (01:22.114)
But I feel like it was really popular even in January market and then going into High Point, it was like even more so in some of like the kind of higher end lines. But then now it's like, OK, that's we did it. We're done. Like, if you still love it, you still love it. Right. You know me like I'm like, do you boo? Like whatever makes the most sense. But I just I'm like, OK. And then like you can just tell like the energy around them when you see people like walk the showrooms, they're just
Katie (01:35.911)
We've done that.
Diana (01:51.755)
Eh, kinda over it. So that's the thing that's kinda like trickling out, but the thing that is still like strong and I'm here for and I can't remember your reaction last time we talked about this, was like the 70s color palettes and the burnt orange and the reds and mustards. They're still here and I'm still here for it.
Katie (01:53.129)
Meh, kind of over it. We've already done
Katie (02:14.958)
why every time I picture like this avocado green fridge and I'm just like, yeah, yeah, it's a thing. OK, I love that it's back. I feel like it's back a little more elevated and sophisticated than in the 70s, a little more refined. Obviously going into fall, that's going to be a thing for sure. What about last time you were on the show and in Vegas, we talked about plaster too in addition to those colors.
Diana (02:39.981)
Mm -hmm.
Katie (02:41.175)
We still seeing all that plaster, especially in, I think it was chandeliers, which was surprising to
Diana (02:45.216)
Yeah, it was lighting. I mean, it's still there, but it's definitely not as highlighted, I guess, as it was. But I feel like it's kind of shifted towards more of like the wicker rattan in lighting with more of a like cottagey experience, like for better or worse. I'm like in my head, I'm like trying to stylize it a little bit more
Katie (02:53.539)
Okay, not as pronounced.
Katie (03:07.02)
Interesting.
Diana (03:12.246)
urban or contemporary rather than being like transitional traditional cottage like French country kind of like vibe like but it's kind of like the 70s palette that your reaction is to is kind of mine with like the baskets and stuff. It just reminds me of my childhood and like I like the longer burger baskets like that kind of vibe is how I feel about it. So there are some that have like more of an interesting shape that I'm like, okay, that makes like it's ornate and I could see that being in like a vintage store but I'm having a hard time with
Katie (03:13.805)
Mm -hmm. Yep.
Katie (03:21.904)
I was just going to say, yeah. Yes. Totally
Diana (03:41.666)
that one a little bit, but it's a good texture. I like the texture.
Katie (03:44.327)
I love the texture. I always think it's interesting when you see stuff come back with a slightly different nuance. And some of us have been around the block a few times, and so we've seen it, where it just feels like they took a basket, turned it upside down, attached a light bulb, and called it a chandelier. I agree with you. The shape makes a big difference as to how it feels. Yeah. And I think that's what sort of shapes. Let's talk shapes. What are you seeing out there? Is it angular? Is it still more soft curves, unless you're in the super contemporary?
Diana (03:52.514)
Mm -hmm.
Diana (04:01.271)
Yeah, huge.
Diana (04:14.476)
It's still pretty angular, I feel like, especially in some of like the larger chandeliers. But I think the ones that are actually standing out are the ones that are leaning into more of the niche of like, we're going to take this super basquetti or we're going to take this super like coastal. Like those are the pieces that are standing out the most. But as far as like shades go, they're still pretty steady as far as what they've been. So nothing too crazy new, I guess.
Katie (04:28.529)
Mm -hmm
Katie (04:40.199)
Okay. No, and that's totally great too. What are we seeing die off? Because every time we talk about it's on its way out the door, we talked about farmhouse being on its way out the door. Is farmhouse officially dead? Are you still seeing farmhouse? I'm always curious. Yes, my soul is cleansed.
Diana (04:54.9)
No, it's gone. I feel like it's like we're over that last hump. Yeah. And then that corduroy kind of channel looks like going on its way out, which I'm not super sad about. And then still the gray, the gray is like we're moving on to bigger and better things from the gray, which is I I'm happy to see. That's nice that we're getting a new palette with the the browns and the warmer tones.
Katie (05:05.659)
going going gone.
Katie (05:10.257)
Yeah, I'm with
Katie (05:24.03)
Well, here we sit.
Diana (05:24.525)
We're still there. We haven't abandoned it.
Katie (05:26.89)
Right. I think we do need to offset it. mean, because it has been around since the recession. We always know economics plays a role in color. And to see that reflected. And I mean, here we are almost 20 years later. mean, heaven help us. Like, my gosh. What are you seeing as far as the neutrals? We had talked about neutrals being in that great category, but warming dramatically and to like the grages of the world, not that we're going back to Graham cracker beige like we saw pre eight, but what are we seeing? Are you seeing any shifts this time in Vegas?
Diana (06:02.088)
It's still we're moving even further away from even like the gray, the gray is like they're full on warm. Like we have left the cool tones. And so the like Auburn Browns are still really like hitting and like the Merlot's like especially in my marble, like that Merlot marble is still really prevalent. And it's coming out of like the really high end vendors that are
Katie (06:19.994)
yeah.
Diana (06:28.83)
usually like right on trend and it's finally trickling down into some of those like bigger guys that can like mass produce some of this stuff. And then the quality is still there, which is really great. So they figured out how to get those Merlot marbles and the like warm tones in those without having to do like a faux laminate on top or anything like, or like a veneer. So that's encouraging to see. And it's just nice because it gives that trend
Katie (06:35.832)
produce.
Katie (06:55.187)
Yes. Yes.
Diana (06:55.885)
the mass market and everyone can enjoy that trend. And I love the Merlot marble, like paired with some chocolate. Like, yes. Yeah. 10 out of 10.
Katie (07:04.747)
Pretty. OK, we haven't done this before. But let's talk, if you're in the luxury market, what do you need to know at this market? If you're in more mid, I wouldn't say economic or economy minded design, because it's a whole different thing. But more mid -grade market, what do you need to know coming out of this market that your clients are either going to be talking to you about or that you can bring to the table as a value add to show your clients you are the subject matter expert, you're up to date on the trends. Like for each of those categories, where does that kind of stand? I I assume it has to do with the Merlot, but it really made me want to tease that out for designers that are listening and they're each servicing different demographics.
Diana (07:48.168)
Yeah, so if you're in the higher end market, I would just really lean into like the natural stones and even like the petrified wood look has been really trendy and I adore so I've been seeing a lot of that for like walls with just like some art and a lot of these higher end vendors they're importing those and they're finding those sustainably sourced and they are using those as like a high -end piece that is like your statement piece. So some of these pieces
Katie (08:03.01)
pretty.
Diana (08:17.153)
giant with the petrified wood and I it's great. I love it. It's a good texture. The color is great. It's pulling in the browns and then I would also say orange like that burnt orange.
Katie (08:20.076)
That's cool.
Katie (08:27.868)
no, I didn't see it coming. It's a thing. Okay.
Diana (08:29.589)
It's a thing. It's a thing. The orange is a thing. And the green is still there, which is a trend we talked about last, think, two, the two markets, which it's still here, but I am calling orange like that burnt orange. So I feel like your higher end clients are going to be on board with the trend and that 70s color palette and not be afraid of kind of a different, like completely different energy in their space because it's either like
Katie (08:40.705)
You're calling orange.
Katie (08:54.606)
Mm -hmm.
Diana (08:59.458)
like a really textured linen or even a velvet still in that orange, which just makes the color that much better. And there was this one sofa that is super high end, it had like, it was striped, like striped seventies with that orange. I was like, I'm just walking. I'm just, you know, hanging out. And then I was like, what? I'm like, that is the best thing I have ever seen. It's beautiful. So I would say if you're a top tier, they're not going to be afraid of it because they're like,
Katie (09:23.824)
That is breathtaking. Yeah.
Diana (09:29.228)
You know, they, they, I think are a little bit more open -minded to those super kind of ornate pieces. But if you're in the middle to a lower end price point that you're trying to like transition your client, that might be a little bit more hesitant on some of those really high -end trends. I would still help them navigate out of the gray and into the browns and try to warm up those spaces. Because Burlwood is still a thing. Those live -ed pieces are still a thing.
The fluted is still really popular, which we talked about last time. So those pieces are in like the mass market still, and they're doing well. So I would just try to transition into like some of the textures in maybe a cool, a little bit of a cooler tone rather than going full on burnt orange avocado.
Katie (09:58.362)
Yeah.
Katie (10:06.884)
Yeah.
Katie (10:11.911)
Right? Or use your burnt orange like we talked about in our Trends podcast, which was great. We'll put that in the show notes too. But use it strategically so it's easily swappable. We're not buying a five -figure sofa that we aren't going to be able to swap later easily anyway. Yeah, that's great advice. Yeah. OK, are we doing shag? Are we doing heavy texture? We talked about how heavy texture and big knobby and all that. Is that calming down now?
Diana (10:26.132)
No.
Diana (10:30.305)
But a cool rug? Yeah, like, let's do the rug.
Katie (10:40.934)
and we're getting more into smooth or is this still high texture, pile?
Diana (10:47.693)
high texture high pile still in a lot of the accent chairs. I would say the sofas have calmed down a little bit, but the accent chairs for sure are still like that. And then I saw a ton of like wall tapestries this market with the like shaggy looks with the seventies color palettes. but the accent chairs are still very loud with their texture. So yeah. it's totally fun.
Katie (11:01.393)
Love
Katie (11:05.927)
They are, yeah. I think that's fun though. I mean, isn't that the point of rugs and accent chairs? It's like, I don't know. That makes my heart happy. Art, what are you seeing in the world of art this market? Is it all over the map or are we seeing some really cool things emerge?
Diana (11:23.456)
The petrified wood, I'm seeing a lot of that, which is a nice take on it. And some vendors are doing the replicas of it to get that price point down. So it's not a one of a kind and it's more sustainably like created. So I'm seeing both of that. And a lot of neon, which I was surprised. Yeah, neon.
Katie (11:38.196)
Wait, what? Totally. It's like we're taking the 70s blurring right into the 80s. Give me my neon. Really? And like, how is it manifesting? Is it? Yeah, that's kind of insane.
Diana (11:46.925)
neon, so much color. It's, yeah, it's kind of like a almost like pop culture looking to me because it's, it's definitely more contemporary, like urban. And then some of them have like the rope lighting inside of it, which those have always existed. But I just feel like in the showrooms, they're like front 5 % of the showroom rather than, you know, how they have it off in like a little niche. But it's really fun to see because you know, art should make you feel something just like lighting, right?
Katie (12:02.322)
Yep.
Katie (12:14.931)
Yeah.
Diana (12:16.598)
having the neons that are just kind of more edgy, pop, culturey, like funny sayings on it. Like just more urban, like grungy almost. So it's like a fun pop of color and for them to intertwine those lights is just cool. So those were awesome.
Katie (12:23.515)
love that. Yep.
Katie (12:31.508)
I think that's so cool. So we haven't even talked about this yet, but like, I wanna do a collage where we take like the five to 10 top looks that you saw and make a sheet and we'll put that in the studio on our website because I think that like just seeing those, like seeing that couch, seeing what that worker's looking like in a light fixture, right? And then seeing the neon art, it just pulls it together. Was there one moment
Diana (12:45.344)
Yeah, that would be great.
Diana (12:53.43)
Mm -hmm.
Katie (12:56.35)
this market, I know you talked about the sofa. Is there one thing that took you by surprise or that you were just like, I didn't see that coming or like interesting or you're seeing to start like what's creeping into the market that we're just starting to maybe see that isn't fully manifested yet.
Diana (13:15.832)
Well, it's interesting because the thing, at least from yesterday, so I have one more day to day, from yesterday was the colors. Like there is one particular manufacturer that I like I walk all the time. We're working with them for years. And when I walked in the showroom, I was like, this is like color. Like there was no hesitation on like a pastel, the 70s. It didn't matter. Like
Katie (13:39.808)
BOLD.
Diana (13:41.017)
green, turquoise, teal, bold color. And for that particular vendor, I was like a little bit surprised by it. Cause you know, each manufacturer has kind of their own niche, but that surprised me the most. But I do feel like it will do really well in the market for people who are not looking, who want just like a little bit of added spice and fun, but aren't looking for a serious moody vibe, which is very trendy right now with some of the higher end manufacturers, but just the youthfulness and livelihood of like
Katie (14:01.835)
Yes.
Diana (14:10.932)
more of the pastel -y kind of fun pops of color, but I was... yeah, that took me by surprise. I wasn't expecting that at
Katie (14:15.993)
I'm so excited. feel like there's just, don't know if anybody else can relate to this, but I feel like there's a Scotiabit TSD about gray and farmhouse. And I just don't even know what you throw at me at this point, but if it's not those two things, I'm very excited about it. So it's nice to be able to know that's out there. I am here for it. Like, my gosh, so glad we're not doing that anymore. That's nice to be able to see.
Diana (14:33.006)
We're here for it.
Katie (14:40.525)
that emerging anything else, any vendors, anybody that you were really tickled pink with this time that took your breath away, which really is saying something because as you all know, Di has her pulse on the market. She knows exactly what's going on. She's wonderful at assembling all the beautiful things. So that's why we listen when you speak. Was there anything that just yeah, that you were like, we need to spread the word about this?
Diana (15:02.242)
You're so sweet.
Diana (15:09.327)
It's that petrified wood. It is just starting to come in and I really am gonna call that texture for even 2026. I think it'll take another year for everyone to catch on to the look of it. mean, not every vendor's gonna be able to, obviously, that's not a sustainable route. Everyone's just petrified wood. But to replicate it well, yeah, right? But to be able to replicate that and enjoy that texture,
Katie (15:10.996)
Okay.
Katie (15:19.458)
Yep.
Katie (15:27.288)
There's a limited amount, Di. Just kidding.
Diana (15:37.806)
That was the thing that stood out the most. And I think that's going to be a 2026. I feel like we're going to see it not only in wall coverings, but I think we're going to be able to like spot that trend in lighting specifically. Because you're kind of seeing some of that even with like the almost like bone looking sconces that I just love, like that tortoise shell look and mix of color. But I feel like that's going to start trickling and it's beautiful.
Katie (15:58.905)
Pretty. Put it in the collage. We want to see it. We want to see it. It's so fun. what else are we missing in this conversation?
Diana (16:13.472)
It's interesting. think the biggest thing as far as like the business side of if you're, we talk about this a lot, going to market at High Point or Las Vegas, or do you go to January? Do you go in summer? Honestly, this summer market, there weren't a ton of new introductions. So I guess it just kind of depends on who you're coming to see, but that's pretty standard that in summer there's not as many new releases as there are in January, but I feel like it was even a little bit less this time. I'm curious to see when you go to High Point if the new releases pick up there because there has been a rumor for a long time now that everything is obviously trying to transition into High Point, which I have mixed feelings about being from the West Coast and just knowing the logistics of High Point. But I do understand as far as like the manufacturing goes because the East Coast, you know, that's what High Point is known for. Right.
Katie (16:53.103)
I do too.
Katie (16:57.413)
Yes.
Diana (17:09.952)
It's interesting to see slowly but surely how even some of these big players are taking that step in the high point direction. So it's interesting. It makes me kind of sad to be honest.
Katie (17:18.269)
Well, it's, I know, we have a special spot in our hearts, I feel like for Vegas, just because it's so accessible, it's so compact and so thorough. It's, yeah, it's easy. It's an easy button to figure out where we're at. It's easy, there's plenty of flights, easy access, adjacent hotels, everything's wrapped up in a bundle for you and given to you. It's just like not a Herculean lift, which I love. I absolutely love that.
Diana (17:32.578)
Easy.
Katie (17:46.342)
But it is interesting to think if that shift is happening, kind of like what we've seen in patio furniture and that a lot of that's been sucked out of Chicago and really like, right? Like there's a whole new show in Atlanta. Yeah, and so like everybody's migrating down there for that is Vegas headed all the high point and like we'll do Vegas, but like when you want the big debuts and the seasonal releases, it's gonna happen at high point.
Diana (17:47.223)
Yes.
Diana (17:57.313)
in Atlanta,
Diana (18:09.718)
You're... Yeah, it's looking that way for sure, which is... to me.
Katie (18:12.422)
OK. Do you feel like you're seeing that like from our perspective? But do you feel like the manufacturers are saying that as well? They're going to be holding and anybody you've talked to? Are they talking more about holding off and doing big releases at high point?
Diana (18:29.986)
Yeah, I feel like there's a couple of people that I've chatted with that have been seeing that as well for the last probably couple of years. And then it's just kind of the nail in the coffin this time. And you can just tell too by the energy behind their visuals, like the amount of effort that they're putting into refreshing their showrooms. Like there's only probably two.
Diana (18:56.09)
vendors, manufacturers that I have walked that I'm like, this showroom is like it. Like they merchandise it well. They have the ambiance. They have like all of the things to like make the perfect, you know, place for buyers to feel inspired and to buy. And everyone else, I just felt like they were like, well, we're not going to be here in six months. So I'm not going to spend that much, which makes sense. You know, I'm not going to spend all this money on redoing wall textures and coverings and bringing in all of this furniture if I'm just going to show at high point.
Katie (19:02.523)
Really?
Katie (19:17.068)
yeah.
Diana (19:26.038)
And as a visual merchandiser, I'm like, you can tell, like you can tell where the effort is being put and what manufacturers are staying and trying to like keep that client base because a lot of business happens on the West Coast and it isn't just us who are feeling that like pinch of, I don't want to fly to the East Coast to do this. So I feel like it's kind of, there's this like struggle on if you are a designer versus if you're a retailer, because if you're a retailer,
Katie (19:29.503)
for sure.
Diana (19:55.407)
you're looking for the turns, you're looking for the margin, you're looking for what is gonna move on your specific niche. Whereas if you're an interior designer and going, it's like, yeah, I can understand why you wanna go to High Point, because it's way more trendy. So it just kinda depends what industry you're in, I think,
Katie (19:56.959)
So if you are going to High Point though, alluded to it. I will be out there in October with Lumia Nagara, Michelle Lin and Rick Campos. We're doing an awesome panel at Universal on processes.
Diana (20:25.411)
Yes.
Katie (20:38.281)
Shameless plug, come see us. We would love to see you guys, especially as it sounds like High Point's gonna become the place. Is that an overstatement? Do you feel like dying?
Diana (20:48.602)
think so. No, I think you're right. So just gotta wrap our minds around it and plan for it well.
Katie (20:50.485)
That's where we're headed. Okay, that's a good little tidbit. Di, such a great conversation as always. Thank you for bringing us up to speed. Everybody make sure and check out the studio on our website, colorworks .coach. We will have that collage that Di has curated. That's right, you have your own curator. S o you can sound fabulous to all your clients and like you know what you're talking about and look for that coming up. Thanks, Di, great conversation.
I'm your host, Katie Erickson
I’m a commercial exterior and interior designer with an MBA and nearly 20 years in the industry. When I’m not leading my coast-to-coast, multi-million dollar firm, I love sharing real talk on the business of design, blending insights from 20 years as a business professor. I keep it honest—balancing work and chasing my two girls around.
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2024 Las Vegas Summer Market with Diana Rushton
If you're an interior designer—or in the biz—you know what time of year it is! It's time for our Las Vegas Summer Market 2024 trends review! What’s changed since the High Point Market? Did anything surprising show up? And is the Vegas Market even going to be a thing in the future?
Our very own Diana Rushton joins us for another market review! She’s coming to us from the Vegas Summer Market and revealing all that’s trending. From textures and color palettes to furniture and lighting—she’s captured it all! All that and more is heading your way when you press play! Oh, and don’t miss this week’s Coaching Corner where I reveal how I’ve found trends valuable in my business.
In this episode, we cover:
High Point vs Vegas Market trends in 2024
What’s in or out for lighting & texture trends
What to know about the Vegas trends for various price points
What took Di by surprise at the summer 2024 Vegas market
How to make the smartest choice about which market to go to & when
What’s your biggest takeaway from the Vegas Summer Market? Share with us on LinkedIn!
More about Diana Rushton
Diana specializes in project management and interior design. She likes that the partnership between project management and design work fulfills her lifelong love of art and puzzles. Diana feels she's found her true calling with 15 years of experience in brick-and-mortar, e-commerce, residential, and commercial design. She strives to create beautifully inspired work with each project while bringing transparency to the process. You'll probably find her sipping iced coffee or petting as many puppies as possible when she's not designing or managing projects.
Links and Mentioned Resources
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Katie (00:02.122)
Di, welcome back to the show. We're so glad to have you back. no, we're so excited because for all of us that don't go to market, we're like, yay, we get a fill in because there's a lot of markets and it's a lot to keep track of and a lot to do. had High Point, you had Vegas, you had, it's just a lot. So today we find you in Vegas.
Diana (00:05.324)
I'm so excited.
Diana (00:23.564)
Vegas.
Katie (00:24.883)
Vegas, fresh off High Point because, and if you missed our High Point podcast, we'll put it in the show notes so you know where High Point was at. I love that we have an East West Coast differential and it'd be fun to compare those in a second. But then also it's great because we can see what trends have changed even since High Point, which is kind of where I wanna start. Let's start with High Point versus Vegas as we've seen it in the last few weeks. So you were at High Point, what are you already seeing change at Vegas?
Diana (00:42.593)
right.
Katie (00:54.228)
that is on its way out from High Point.
Diana (00:58.414)
would say the biggest thing is that some vendors call it corduroy, but it's channeled almost, like in upholstery. Where some of them have a really chunky, furry looking raised pile. And just these mass sofas and chaises. And they're cozy. Don't get me wrong, they're so cozy.
Katie (01:06.291)
Yeah.
Diana (01:22.114)
But I feel like it was really popular even in January market and then going into High Point, it was like even more so in some of like the kind of higher end lines. But then now it's like, OK, that's we did it. We're done. Like, if you still love it, you still love it. Right. You know me like I'm like, do you boo? Like whatever makes the most sense. But I just I'm like, OK. And then like you can just tell like the energy around them when you see people like walk the showrooms, they're just
Katie (01:35.911)
We've done that.
Diana (01:51.755)
Eh, kinda over it. So that's the thing that's kinda like trickling out, but the thing that is still like strong and I'm here for and I can't remember your reaction last time we talked about this, was like the 70s color palettes and the burnt orange and the reds and mustards. They're still here and I'm still here for it.
Katie (01:53.129)
Meh, kind of over it. We've already done
Katie (02:14.958)
why every time I picture like this avocado green fridge and I'm just like, yeah, yeah, it's a thing. OK, I love that it's back. I feel like it's back a little more elevated and sophisticated than in the 70s, a little more refined. Obviously going into fall, that's going to be a thing for sure. What about last time you were on the show and in Vegas, we talked about plaster too in addition to those colors.
Diana (02:39.981)
Mm -hmm.
Katie (02:41.175)
We still seeing all that plaster, especially in, I think it was chandeliers, which was surprising to
Diana (02:45.216)
Yeah, it was lighting. I mean, it's still there, but it's definitely not as highlighted, I guess, as it was. But I feel like it's kind of shifted towards more of like the wicker rattan in lighting with more of a like cottagey experience, like for better or worse. I'm like in my head, I'm like trying to stylize it a little bit more
Katie (02:53.539)
Okay, not as pronounced.
Katie (03:07.02)
Interesting.
Diana (03:12.246)
urban or contemporary rather than being like transitional traditional cottage like French country kind of like vibe like but it's kind of like the 70s palette that your reaction is to is kind of mine with like the baskets and stuff. It just reminds me of my childhood and like I like the longer burger baskets like that kind of vibe is how I feel about it. So there are some that have like more of an interesting shape that I'm like, okay, that makes like it's ornate and I could see that being in like a vintage store but I'm having a hard time with
Katie (03:13.805)
Mm -hmm. Yep.
Katie (03:21.904)
I was just going to say, yeah. Yes. Totally
Diana (03:41.666)
that one a little bit, but it's a good texture. I like the texture.
Katie (03:44.327)
I love the texture. I always think it's interesting when you see stuff come back with a slightly different nuance. And some of us have been around the block a few times, and so we've seen it, where it just feels like they took a basket, turned it upside down, attached a light bulb, and called it a chandelier. I agree with you. The shape makes a big difference as to how it feels. Yeah. And I think that's what sort of shapes. Let's talk shapes. What are you seeing out there? Is it angular? Is it still more soft curves, unless you're in the super contemporary?
Diana (03:52.514)
Mm -hmm.
Diana (04:01.271)
Yeah, huge.
Diana (04:14.476)
It's still pretty angular, I feel like, especially in some of like the larger chandeliers. But I think the ones that are actually standing out are the ones that are leaning into more of the niche of like, we're going to take this super basquetti or we're going to take this super like coastal. Like those are the pieces that are standing out the most. But as far as like shades go, they're still pretty steady as far as what they've been. So nothing too crazy new, I guess.
Katie (04:28.529)
Mm -hmm
Katie (04:40.199)
Okay. No, and that's totally great too. What are we seeing die off? Because every time we talk about it's on its way out the door, we talked about farmhouse being on its way out the door. Is farmhouse officially dead? Are you still seeing farmhouse? I'm always curious. Yes, my soul is cleansed.
Diana (04:54.9)
No, it's gone. I feel like it's like we're over that last hump. Yeah. And then that corduroy kind of channel looks like going on its way out, which I'm not super sad about. And then still the gray, the gray is like we're moving on to bigger and better things from the gray, which is I I'm happy to see. That's nice that we're getting a new palette with the the browns and the warmer tones.
Katie (05:05.659)
going going gone.
Katie (05:10.257)
Yeah, I'm with
Katie (05:24.03)
Well, here we sit.
Diana (05:24.525)
We're still there. We haven't abandoned it.
Katie (05:26.89)
Right. I think we do need to offset it. mean, because it has been around since the recession. We always know economics plays a role in color. And to see that reflected. And I mean, here we are almost 20 years later. mean, heaven help us. Like, my gosh. What are you seeing as far as the neutrals? We had talked about neutrals being in that great category, but warming dramatically and to like the grages of the world, not that we're going back to Graham cracker beige like we saw pre eight, but what are we seeing? Are you seeing any shifts this time in Vegas?
Diana (06:02.088)
It's still we're moving even further away from even like the gray, the gray is like they're full on warm. Like we have left the cool tones. And so the like Auburn Browns are still really like hitting and like the Merlot's like especially in my marble, like that Merlot marble is still really prevalent. And it's coming out of like the really high end vendors that are
Katie (06:19.994)
yeah.
Diana (06:28.83)
usually like right on trend and it's finally trickling down into some of those like bigger guys that can like mass produce some of this stuff. And then the quality is still there, which is really great. So they figured out how to get those Merlot marbles and the like warm tones in those without having to do like a faux laminate on top or anything like, or like a veneer. So that's encouraging to see. And it's just nice because it gives that trend
Katie (06:35.832)
produce.
Katie (06:55.187)
Yes. Yes.
Diana (06:55.885)
the mass market and everyone can enjoy that trend. And I love the Merlot marble, like paired with some chocolate. Like, yes. Yeah. 10 out of 10.
Katie (07:04.747)
Pretty. OK, we haven't done this before. But let's talk, if you're in the luxury market, what do you need to know at this market? If you're in more mid, I wouldn't say economic or economy minded design, because it's a whole different thing. But more mid -grade market, what do you need to know coming out of this market that your clients are either going to be talking to you about or that you can bring to the table as a value add to show your clients you are the subject matter expert, you're up to date on the trends. Like for each of those categories, where does that kind of stand? I I assume it has to do with the Merlot, but it really made me want to tease that out for designers that are listening and they're each servicing different demographics.
Diana (07:48.168)
Yeah, so if you're in the higher end market, I would just really lean into like the natural stones and even like the petrified wood look has been really trendy and I adore so I've been seeing a lot of that for like walls with just like some art and a lot of these higher end vendors they're importing those and they're finding those sustainably sourced and they are using those as like a high -end piece that is like your statement piece. So some of these pieces
Katie (08:03.01)
pretty.
Diana (08:17.153)
giant with the petrified wood and I it's great. I love it. It's a good texture. The color is great. It's pulling in the browns and then I would also say orange like that burnt orange.
Katie (08:20.076)
That's cool.
Katie (08:27.868)
no, I didn't see it coming. It's a thing. Okay.
Diana (08:29.589)
It's a thing. It's a thing. The orange is a thing. And the green is still there, which is a trend we talked about last, think, two, the two markets, which it's still here, but I am calling orange like that burnt orange. So I feel like your higher end clients are going to be on board with the trend and that 70s color palette and not be afraid of kind of a different, like completely different energy in their space because it's either like
Katie (08:40.705)
You're calling orange.
Katie (08:54.606)
Mm -hmm.
Diana (08:59.458)
like a really textured linen or even a velvet still in that orange, which just makes the color that much better. And there was this one sofa that is super high end, it had like, it was striped, like striped seventies with that orange. I was like, I'm just walking. I'm just, you know, hanging out. And then I was like, what? I'm like, that is the best thing I have ever seen. It's beautiful. So I would say if you're a top tier, they're not going to be afraid of it because they're like,
Katie (09:23.824)
That is breathtaking. Yeah.
Diana (09:29.228)
You know, they, they, I think are a little bit more open -minded to those super kind of ornate pieces. But if you're in the middle to a lower end price point that you're trying to like transition your client, that might be a little bit more hesitant on some of those really high -end trends. I would still help them navigate out of the gray and into the browns and try to warm up those spaces. Because Burlwood is still a thing. Those live -ed pieces are still a thing.
The fluted is still really popular, which we talked about last time. So those pieces are in like the mass market still, and they're doing well. So I would just try to transition into like some of the textures in maybe a cool, a little bit of a cooler tone rather than going full on burnt orange avocado.
Katie (09:58.362)
Yeah.
Katie (10:06.884)
Yeah.
Katie (10:11.911)
Right? Or use your burnt orange like we talked about in our Trends podcast, which was great. We'll put that in the show notes too. But use it strategically so it's easily swappable. We're not buying a five -figure sofa that we aren't going to be able to swap later easily anyway. Yeah, that's great advice. Yeah. OK, are we doing shag? Are we doing heavy texture? We talked about how heavy texture and big knobby and all that. Is that calming down now?
Diana (10:26.132)
No.
Diana (10:30.305)
But a cool rug? Yeah, like, let's do the rug.
Katie (10:40.934)
and we're getting more into smooth or is this still high texture, pile?
Diana (10:47.693)
high texture high pile still in a lot of the accent chairs. I would say the sofas have calmed down a little bit, but the accent chairs for sure are still like that. And then I saw a ton of like wall tapestries this market with the like shaggy looks with the seventies color palettes. but the accent chairs are still very loud with their texture. So yeah. it's totally fun.
Katie (11:01.393)
Love
Katie (11:05.927)
They are, yeah. I think that's fun though. I mean, isn't that the point of rugs and accent chairs? It's like, I don't know. That makes my heart happy. Art, what are you seeing in the world of art this market? Is it all over the map or are we seeing some really cool things emerge?
Diana (11:23.456)
The petrified wood, I'm seeing a lot of that, which is a nice take on it. And some vendors are doing the replicas of it to get that price point down. So it's not a one of a kind and it's more sustainably like created. So I'm seeing both of that. And a lot of neon, which I was surprised. Yeah, neon.
Katie (11:38.196)
Wait, what? Totally. It's like we're taking the 70s blurring right into the 80s. Give me my neon. Really? And like, how is it manifesting? Is it? Yeah, that's kind of insane.
Diana (11:46.925)
neon, so much color. It's, yeah, it's kind of like a almost like pop culture looking to me because it's, it's definitely more contemporary, like urban. And then some of them have like the rope lighting inside of it, which those have always existed. But I just feel like in the showrooms, they're like front 5 % of the showroom rather than, you know, how they have it off in like a little niche. But it's really fun to see because you know, art should make you feel something just like lighting, right?
Katie (12:02.322)
Yep.
Katie (12:14.931)
Yeah.
Diana (12:16.598)
having the neons that are just kind of more edgy, pop, culturey, like funny sayings on it. Like just more urban, like grungy almost. So it's like a fun pop of color and for them to intertwine those lights is just cool. So those were awesome.
Katie (12:23.515)
love that. Yep.
Katie (12:31.508)
I think that's so cool. So we haven't even talked about this yet, but like, I wanna do a collage where we take like the five to 10 top looks that you saw and make a sheet and we'll put that in the studio on our website because I think that like just seeing those, like seeing that couch, seeing what that worker's looking like in a light fixture, right? And then seeing the neon art, it just pulls it together. Was there one moment
Diana (12:45.344)
Yeah, that would be great.
Diana (12:53.43)
Mm -hmm.
Katie (12:56.35)
this market, I know you talked about the sofa. Is there one thing that took you by surprise or that you were just like, I didn't see that coming or like interesting or you're seeing to start like what's creeping into the market that we're just starting to maybe see that isn't fully manifested yet.
Diana (13:15.832)
Well, it's interesting because the thing, at least from yesterday, so I have one more day to day, from yesterday was the colors. Like there is one particular manufacturer that I like I walk all the time. We're working with them for years. And when I walked in the showroom, I was like, this is like color. Like there was no hesitation on like a pastel, the 70s. It didn't matter. Like
Katie (13:39.808)
BOLD.
Diana (13:41.017)
green, turquoise, teal, bold color. And for that particular vendor, I was like a little bit surprised by it. Cause you know, each manufacturer has kind of their own niche, but that surprised me the most. But I do feel like it will do really well in the market for people who are not looking, who want just like a little bit of added spice and fun, but aren't looking for a serious moody vibe, which is very trendy right now with some of the higher end manufacturers, but just the youthfulness and livelihood of like
Katie (14:01.835)
Yes.
Diana (14:10.932)
more of the pastel -y kind of fun pops of color, but I was... yeah, that took me by surprise. I wasn't expecting that at
Katie (14:15.993)
I'm so excited. feel like there's just, don't know if anybody else can relate to this, but I feel like there's a Scotiabit TSD about gray and farmhouse. And I just don't even know what you throw at me at this point, but if it's not those two things, I'm very excited about it. So it's nice to be able to know that's out there. I am here for it. Like, my gosh, so glad we're not doing that anymore. That's nice to be able to see.
Diana (14:33.006)
We're here for it.
Katie (14:40.525)
that emerging anything else, any vendors, anybody that you were really tickled pink with this time that took your breath away, which really is saying something because as you all know, Di has her pulse on the market. She knows exactly what's going on. She's wonderful at assembling all the beautiful things. So that's why we listen when you speak. Was there anything that just yeah, that you were like, we need to spread the word about this?
Diana (15:02.242)
You're so sweet.
Diana (15:09.327)
It's that petrified wood. It is just starting to come in and I really am gonna call that texture for even 2026. I think it'll take another year for everyone to catch on to the look of it. mean, not every vendor's gonna be able to, obviously, that's not a sustainable route. Everyone's just petrified wood. But to replicate it well, yeah, right? But to be able to replicate that and enjoy that texture,
Katie (15:10.996)
Okay.
Katie (15:19.458)
Yep.
Katie (15:27.288)
There's a limited amount, Di. Just kidding.
Diana (15:37.806)
That was the thing that stood out the most. And I think that's going to be a 2026. I feel like we're going to see it not only in wall coverings, but I think we're going to be able to like spot that trend in lighting specifically. Because you're kind of seeing some of that even with like the almost like bone looking sconces that I just love, like that tortoise shell look and mix of color. But I feel like that's going to start trickling and it's beautiful.
Katie (15:58.905)
Pretty. Put it in the collage. We want to see it. We want to see it. It's so fun. what else are we missing in this conversation?
Diana (16:13.472)
It's interesting. think the biggest thing as far as like the business side of if you're, we talk about this a lot, going to market at High Point or Las Vegas, or do you go to January? Do you go in summer? Honestly, this summer market, there weren't a ton of new introductions. So I guess it just kind of depends on who you're coming to see, but that's pretty standard that in summer there's not as many new releases as there are in January, but I feel like it was even a little bit less this time. I'm curious to see when you go to High Point if the new releases pick up there because there has been a rumor for a long time now that everything is obviously trying to transition into High Point, which I have mixed feelings about being from the West Coast and just knowing the logistics of High Point. But I do understand as far as like the manufacturing goes because the East Coast, you know, that's what High Point is known for. Right.
Katie (16:53.103)
I do too.
Katie (16:57.413)
Yes.
Diana (17:09.952)
It's interesting to see slowly but surely how even some of these big players are taking that step in the high point direction. So it's interesting. It makes me kind of sad to be honest.
Katie (17:18.269)
Well, it's, I know, we have a special spot in our hearts, I feel like for Vegas, just because it's so accessible, it's so compact and so thorough. It's, yeah, it's easy. It's an easy button to figure out where we're at. It's easy, there's plenty of flights, easy access, adjacent hotels, everything's wrapped up in a bundle for you and given to you. It's just like not a Herculean lift, which I love. I absolutely love that.
Diana (17:32.578)
Easy.
Katie (17:46.342)
But it is interesting to think if that shift is happening, kind of like what we've seen in patio furniture and that a lot of that's been sucked out of Chicago and really like, right? Like there's a whole new show in Atlanta. Yeah, and so like everybody's migrating down there for that is Vegas headed all the high point and like we'll do Vegas, but like when you want the big debuts and the seasonal releases, it's gonna happen at high point.
Diana (17:47.223)
Yes.
Diana (17:57.313)
in Atlanta,
Diana (18:09.718)
You're... Yeah, it's looking that way for sure, which is... to me.
Katie (18:12.422)
OK. Do you feel like you're seeing that like from our perspective? But do you feel like the manufacturers are saying that as well? They're going to be holding and anybody you've talked to? Are they talking more about holding off and doing big releases at high point?
Diana (18:29.986)
Yeah, I feel like there's a couple of people that I've chatted with that have been seeing that as well for the last probably couple of years. And then it's just kind of the nail in the coffin this time. And you can just tell too by the energy behind their visuals, like the amount of effort that they're putting into refreshing their showrooms. Like there's only probably two.
Diana (18:56.09)
vendors, manufacturers that I have walked that I'm like, this showroom is like it. Like they merchandise it well. They have the ambiance. They have like all of the things to like make the perfect, you know, place for buyers to feel inspired and to buy. And everyone else, I just felt like they were like, well, we're not going to be here in six months. So I'm not going to spend that much, which makes sense. You know, I'm not going to spend all this money on redoing wall textures and coverings and bringing in all of this furniture if I'm just going to show at high point.
Katie (19:02.523)
Really?
Katie (19:17.068)
yeah.
Diana (19:26.038)
And as a visual merchandiser, I'm like, you can tell, like you can tell where the effort is being put and what manufacturers are staying and trying to like keep that client base because a lot of business happens on the West Coast and it isn't just us who are feeling that like pinch of, I don't want to fly to the East Coast to do this. So I feel like it's kind of, there's this like struggle on if you are a designer versus if you're a retailer, because if you're a retailer,
Katie (19:29.503)
for sure.
Diana (19:55.407)
you're looking for the turns, you're looking for the margin, you're looking for what is gonna move on your specific niche. Whereas if you're an interior designer and going, it's like, yeah, I can understand why you wanna go to High Point, because it's way more trendy. So it just kinda depends what industry you're in, I think,
Katie (19:56.959)
So if you are going to High Point though, alluded to it. I will be out there in October with Lumia Nagara, Michelle Lin and Rick Campos. We're doing an awesome panel at Universal on processes.
Diana (20:25.411)
Yes.
Katie (20:38.281)
Shameless plug, come see us. We would love to see you guys, especially as it sounds like High Point's gonna become the place. Is that an overstatement? Do you feel like dying?
Diana (20:48.602)
think so. No, I think you're right. So just gotta wrap our minds around it and plan for it well.
Katie (20:50.485)
That's where we're headed. Okay, that's a good little tidbit. Di, such a great conversation as always. Thank you for bringing us up to speed. Everybody make sure and check out the studio on our website, colorworks .coach. We will have that collage that Di has curated. That's right, you have your own curator. S o you can sound fabulous to all your clients and like you know what you're talking about and look for that coming up. Thanks, Di, great conversation.
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