The market, held April 14-20 throughout downtown High Point, N.C., suggested that designers are leaning more toward contemporary approaches. Rug makers, for example, showcased bold new patterns designed to complement the new-is-now flavor of this season's furnishings. From location to location through out market a sense of new flavor was present. Brighter colors, striking abstract designs and geometric patterns drew attention. In the past, it was the more tradition looks - say, a Tibetan rug with a tea-stain colored fringe, for example - that would bring the buyers calling.
Denise Krejci, an interior designer for Leopold's, a furnishings retailer in Brecksville, Ohio, said the trend toward contemporary design was accelerating. "I was surprised to see how many of the new products were contemporary instead of traditional," she said.