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Event and design trends for 2019 include personalization, textured accents, mixed metals and wireless technology, according to the experts at CORT Events, the Chantilly, Va.-based provider of event rental furniture, lighting and accessories.
Color and pattern trends include blue hues in seating, complemented by warm brown tones and vibrant metallics, as well as nature inspired motifs.
Event decor
Perhaps the most important trend for 2019 event decor is personalization, for a one-of-a-kind event experience. “Every event we design and produce includes an element of personalization,” says Jordan Carbotti, creative director at Perfect Surroundings Intl., Miami Beach, Fla. “Whether it’s a graphic on a bar or a customized ottoman cover or pillow, our clients want decor that reflects their design inspiration and aesthetic.”
CORT Events offers an array of products suitable for personalization, including tables, bars, chairs, ottomans, room dividers and lighting. The Luna Lighting collection features acrylic columns, pedestals and tables that are easily customized and lend a vibrant glow to complement any design.
Design
Event decor and design continues to reflect a sense of luxury and glamour. Art deco-inspired furnishings incorporate design details such as channel stitching, curved edges, lush fabrics and soft colorful hues. Textured fabrics and velvets are prominent and lend balance to the metallic bronzes and marbles present on surfaces. Danish modern silhouettes take center stage on soft seating and are updated with rounded edges and surprising finishes, such as black metal frames.
Faux wood and marble laminates continue to dominate surface textures. Modern industrial chic furnishings, like CORT’s new brown Wentworth chair with black swivel metal base, represent this trend toward rich brown colors mixed with hard black surfaces for a balanced design aesthetic. “Mixing black metals with wood and brown pieces is a fresh take on the rustic trends of the past few years,” says Kevin Dana, executive director of marketing and merchandising for CORT Events. “Mix in marble, velvet and bronze metallic furnishings for an eclectic design that references, art deco, Danish modern and rustic trends.”
For an elevated look that won’t overwhelm any aesthetic, CORT experts recommend faux fur. “Long mohair and Mongolian faux fur accents are a fabulous way to dress up your designs this year. They look fabulous and elevate the design toward chic luxury,” says lifestyle guru Steve Kemble. “CORT’s new Mongolian Fur pillows are a perfect way to infuse your design with this look.”
Technology
Wireless charging is beginning to manifest in event furnishings. CORT’s new Wireless Charging Cube is an easy way to offer wireless using the Qi system for Android and Apple products. The table features a wireless charging pad where guests simply place their device on top, and it charges automatically, allowing them to network or engage with other guests at the same time. The white accent table can be styled into any modern design and incorporates AC, USB or wireless charging capabilities into the furniture design.
Color and pattern
Gray is the dominate neutral for fabric in seating, but blues are growing in prominence. “Blues are the color story trend for soft seating this year,” Dana says. “Blues work well with on-trend grays and emerging brownish hues. We’re seeing a shift toward warmer color tones in soft seating.
“In 2019, event planners can customize gatherings with two different color stories: the warm earth tones, reminiscent of the 1970s, and more vibrant colors, such as rich cranberry reds, pinks and salmon tones,” Dana continues. “These are colors that bring life and vitality to designs, but still convey a sense of calm.”