NEW TRENDS IN FURNITURE DESIGN

Here are some of the high points from High Point:

Hidden chargers:Hate appears of your cell phone charging on your nightstand? Companies are putting chargers inside the drawers of nightstands and also desks.

Armless loveseats:They look sleek, take up less room in small townhouses and condos, and are more versatile to arrange in a room.

Beds:It’s easier than ever to get a custom look of upholstered beds in many variations. The hot look is the headboard, which mimics the shape of a wing chair.

Colors:Orange remains strong in all hues, and so does red. But also look for soft colors such as celery, sea glass, Tiffany blue, spa blue,cocoa,gray, sand and even blush; also yummy shades such as apricot, pumpkin, raisin and watermelon. Bronze is big.

Etageres:These freestanding shelf units open on all sides and old for display were everywhere, providing a more open, less bulky look. You’ll see them on freestanding shelves as well as plasma TV units.

Entertainment units:Manufacturers are persuaded that women now don’t mind looking at a large plasma TV screen. More options put the TV on display. Look for a diversity of consoles. For big bucks, a plasma lift system makes the TV disappear.

Fabrics:Some of the prints are so oversize they seem as if they’re on steroids. Another big look is luster stolen from the runway, whether it’s luminescence on a tassel,silk pillows,an iridescent polyester/ rayon blend or metallic leather.

Faux leathers:They wear well and look like the genuine thing from ostrich to croc to python.They also make great wall coverings.

Oval ottomans:Fabric- and leather-covered ottomans give an elegant look.