Petit Est Le Chic
Oct 21st, 2008 by Lauri
Last week was a blur: I spent it at the Interior Refiners Network annual conference in Cleveland, Ohio at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel
with IRN members from all over North America. What a smart, dynamic group! A full roster of nationally-recognized experts presented timely seminars and, coincidentally, reiterated the same theme: affordable one day decorating - the IRN’s business model - is an ideal service for homeowners and renters in this economy since most people are finding they are spending more time at home (as well as working there) and, as a result, are seeking more comfortable, aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces. We knew that!
The desire for better organization and storage and an even more tranquil environment has never been greater. Many want to enjoy their homes and, at the same time, make changes that will increase the value of their places so that they are well-positioned when the real estate market starts to improve. They can then amortize the cost of their improvements over a longer period of time.
Another hot topic of discussion at the conference was downsizing
, and with good reason: Not only are baby boomers looking for smaller homes, younger singles, couples and families are also keen on moving to smaller quarters that cost less, require less energy consumption and less maintenance. In addition, lots of people are downsizing in place, both to declutter their existing homes and in preparation for a future move.
There are endless stories in the media, literally every day, covering the latest ideas in downsizing. Last week, at the High Point Furniture Market, manufacturers unveiled new lines that offer all sorts of multi-purpose, small-scale pieces, with the overriding message: “small is the new black.” How simple. How smart.
I’ve always seemed to “be in” before and after some trend. Small is ok with me for all the reasons you stated. So much less stress!
Debbie,
Amen.