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Universal: Driving characterdriven assortments PAGE 2

Q&A: TH E SKI LLS EVERY EM PLOYEE N EEDS PAGE 28

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On The Cover

Universal President: New Cassia collection delivers modern character By Cindy Hodnett Universal Furniture is introducing the Cassia collection at market this week, a line that includes organically shaped nesting tables, a dining table, a cocktail table with storage, and a six-drawer chest with rounded waterfall edges and bar hardware (featured on today’s cover). President Sean O’Connor gave us the collection’s backstory and told us why he thinks it is perfect for today’s consumer. Who do you envision buying Cassia? Cassia appeals to customers who love modern design but want a home that still feels warm and personal. They appreciate interesting shapes, natural materials and a piece that can start a conversation. It could be a customer furnishing an entire room, or someone looking for one distinctive piece to add to a home they’ve built over time. I think designers will have fun with it for the same reason. What inspired the collection? Cassia is character driven. Our design and marketing teams drew from postmodernism and Pop Art, then brought those influences into pieces people can live with every day. You see it in the soft edges and shapes of the pieces, as well as the unexpected mix of white oak, stone and warm bronze details. It has personality, but we think it still feels like furniture you’d want to live with. How does it fit into Universal’s overall brand strategy? Modern has been a significant part of Universal’s business for many years, and Cassia builds on that. Our goal is to give customers a reason to come to Universal for the whole home, across a range of design styles. Cassia gives our retail and design partners something fresh to show customers who want a modern look. It also delivers what we want people to expect from us: approachable design, practical function and lasting value.

Universal President Sean O’Connor

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The three organically shaped nesting tables are topped with light Emperador stone. Photos courtesy of Universal Furniture

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Roundtable talk talk:

Tackling retail's not-so-sexy challenges Running an independent home furnishings store comes with plenty of creative rewards — but the day-to-day operational challenges aren’t always as glamorous. That’s the focus of today’s Duo Home roundtable, where Vicki Rulli and Tom Heaphey of Duo Home will join Home Accents Today Editor-in-Chief Allison Zisko to talk about the not-so-sexy side of store ownership — and, more importantly, share ideas and solutions with fellow independent retailers. The idea grew out of a recent Duo Home column in HAT, in which the Heapheys candidly outlined some of the operational headaches they continue to encounter, from point-of-sale systems and special orders to deliveries, backorders and pricing labels.

Today’s roundtable offers independent retailers an opportunity to compare notes on these everyday challenges — and share the systems, workarounds and solutions that are working in their own stores. Retail operations roundtable Today, 11 a.m. Universal Furniture, 101 S. Hamilton Have a retail operations headache? Bring it to the roundtable. All are welcome.

E X E C U T I V E E D I TO R , B R A N D D E V E L O P M E N T

CINDY HODNETT

chodnett@bridgetowermedia.com E D I TO R - I N - C H I E F

Vicki Rulli and Tom Heaphey invite fellow retailers to join them for a no-holds-barred retailing conversation this morning. (Photo courtesy of Duo Home)

This article was assisted by an AI engine and reviewed, fact-checked and edited by our editorial staff.

M A N A G I N G D I R E C TO R HOME FURNISHINGS DIVISION Donna Bischoff dbischoff@furnituretoday.com

azisko@bridgetowermedia.com

S E N I O R AC C O U NT E X EC U T I V E Kara Dunlay kdunlay@furnituretoday.com

M A N A G I N G E D I TO R Anne Flynn Wear awear@furnituretoday.com

S E N I O R AC C O U NT E X EC U T I V E Cat Dubuc cdubuc@furnituretoday.com

ALLISON ZISKO

S E N I O R D E S I G N S T R AT E G I S T Brandon Bennett bbennett@studiobtm.com

S E N I O R AC C O U NT E X EC U T I V E Rachel Hurt rhurt@furnituretoday.com

S E N I O R AC C O U NT E X EC U T I V E Jack McCracken jmccracken@furnituretoday.com P R O D U CT I O N MA NAG E R Corey Edwards cedwards@studiobtm.com M A R K E T I N G & C R E AT I V E S E R V I C E S D I R E C TO R Melanie Bingham mbingham@studiobtm.com S E N I O R D I R E C TO R O F D I G I TA L O P E R AT I O N S Chris Schultz cschultz@bridgetowermedia.com

S E N I O R AC C O U NT E X EC U T I V E Natalie Filtser nfiltser@furnituretoday.com

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Leadership shifts to watch in High Point

n the months leading up to this week’s High Point Market, there have been many executive changes across the industry. Several new CEOs are settling into their roles. Many companies have made changes in their sales leadership or sharpened their focus on growth, technology and international expansion through recent hires or promotions. As market gets underway, here are the companies to keep an eye on. Bassett Mirror recently expanded its sales representation with Emily Meszkat representing New York and Northern New Jersey; Kevin DiLegge representing Illinois and Wisconsin; and Kristopher Lahn representing Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. Back in July, the company named Whitney Ridgeway vice president of product development and merchandising for furniture. Emily Meszkat

Nicole C. Zeman

Currey & Company has promoted Nicole Casanova Zeman to western regional sales manager. She is charged with driving growth across Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Colorado and Wyoming by developing and managing high-end retail, interior design and trade accounts. She reports to Bob Ulrich, senior vice president of sales. Zeman brings 14 years of experience representing Currey & Company through the Art & Function group.

Chelsea House named interior and product designer Jamie Merida creative director. Merida will spearhead the company’s product development and brand presentation to create a cohesive point of view across collections, merchandising and visual storytelling. His expanded role also includes the creative direction of the Chelsea House showroom, which he has redesigned for this market. Merida, who has a 10-year design partnership with Chelsea Jamie Merida House, has also created The Jamie Merida Edit, which is debuting this week. In addition to his work as a product designer, Merida is principal of Jamie Merida Interiors and founder of Bountiful Home, in Easton, Md. HH2 Home named furniture industry veteran and Hillsdale Furniture co-founder John Elting CEO. He will lead the company’s next chapter and renew its commitment to categories that built its legacy, the Blue Mountain, Miss.-based company said. Those categories include barstools, beds, accents, dining and bedroom furniture. Another priority will be expanding sales through the company’s warehouse in Blue John Elting Mountain while continuing to grow its proprietary product-development partnerships with major retail customers across those same categories. Malaina Matheus became CEO of Hudson Valley Lighting Group in September, while founder David Littman moved to executive chairman. Matheus is a

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Malaina Matheus

16-year HVLG executive who mostly recently served as president of the lighting company. At Interlude Home, Sean McFadden took on added responsibilities for international and contract/hospitality growth, competitive analysis and market intelligence back in July as EVP, while Jessica Norby now oversees the entire U.S. sales organization. At Legacy Classic | Modern, Roland Maddrey was promoted to national vice president of sales, Tahirah “Dock” Johnson was named vice president of sales operations and key accounts and Ashley Smith moved to manager of customer service. Liberty Furniture promoted 20-year company executive Jonathan Cowles to president in August. Earlier this summer, it promoted Matt Smith to chief operating officer to oversee logistics, manufacturing and supply chain strategy. And last month, it named Bryan Edwards vice president of sales. Edwards has spent the past seven years as vice president of sales for residential upholstery and export at Bernhardt Furniture. He also served as senior vice president of Bryan Edwards sales at A.R.T. Furniture for three years before being promoted to president of that company. In addition, Liberty promoted Maggie Henning to the new role of director of sales. Henning, who joined Liberty in 2023 as director of e-commerce and marketing, will lead the company's internal e-commerce and brick-and-mortar sales teams and reports to Edwards. Aldo Uva joined Natuzzi’s board of directors last month and is poised to formally assume the role of CEO by mid-October. Uva, who served as CEO between 2008 and 2009, will lead the Group’s industrial and operational turnaround, Natuzzi said. Rifle Paper Company’s new CEO, Carey Ann Campbell, joined the company in April. She was Aldo Uva previously CEO of apparel and lifestyle brand, Southern Tide. This fall, Rifle Paper Co. will open its second retail location in Tampa, Fla., while continuing to introduce new collections featuring company co-founder Anna Bond’s signature hand-painted patterns. “Customers can also expect seasonal collections, new wallpaper and bedding, and first-time collaborations in the coming months,” the company said.

Carey Ann Campbell

Rowe Furniture has promoted Laura Mabe to vice president of creative, and Stuart Hruza to vice president of enterprise transformation. Mabe will collaborate closely with product, merchandising and marketing to ensure the Rowe brand remains relevant, consistent and differentiated in the marketplace, the company said. Hruza’s responsibilities include improving transparency and access to information, reducing unnecessary friction, strengthening connections across departments and identifying practical ways data, automation and technology can help Rowe operate more effectively. — Compiled by Allison Zisko

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JANUARY 24–28, 2027

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Market-wide

Pink Out supports City of Hope City of Hope is rallying all High Point Market attendees to join the Pink Out High Point movement tomorrow in support of breast cancer awareness, research and treatment. WAC Group will kick things off with a cocktail party this afternoon in its IHFC showroom (H327) from 2–4 p.m. Shannon Becker, senior marketing events manager for WAC Group, is part of the City of Hope Pink Out Committee and helped plan the initiative. Guests are invited to support City of Hope through a charitable donation and receive a commemorative WAC Group crystal gift. Participants can also sign a dedication poster, creating a meaningful tribute that honors the spirit of hope and connection. The afternoon celebration will feature a live DJ, food and drinks, exclusive City of Hope | WAC Group merchandise giveaways, and chances to win a $5,000 product credit and a pair of VIP Experience passes to Sunday evening’s Andy Grammer concert in High Point. Wear pink Marketgoers can wear pink tomorrow, Oct. 18, to show their support. Led by Pink Out Committee Chair Molly Mays Wieczorek of Uttermost, the industry-wide effort will extend throughout High Point Market with showroom activations and special events. A dedicated group of showrooms — Pink Friends, including Elements International, Feizy Rugs, Hooker Furnishings and Uttermost — will offer visitors a pink ribbon to wear throughout

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market to show their support. Theodore Alexander will host a Pink Out lunch in its showroom tomorrow with interior designer Alexa Hampton. Also, Uttermost will offer a custom Pink Out coffee experience. On Center Stage tomorrow evening, during the Andy Grammer concert, City of Hope will host a special VIP space where leading Pink Out supporters, including Leftbank Art (Pink Bite sponsor) and partners can gather during the concert. “Pink Out High Point with City of Hope is about much more than wearing pink during breast cancer awareness month,” Wieczorek said. “It’s an opportunity to learn about City of Hope’s mission, start conversations with our colleagues and families, and engage with a cause in a meaningful way.” The Pink Out committee includes Ellie Alexander, Hooker Furnishings; Sydney Martin, Theodore Alexander; Shannon Becker, WAC Group; Robin Hoff, Theodore Alexander; Laura Forsythe, Ashley Furniture; Stephanie Jonas, High Point Market Authority; Alex Kennerly, Luxe Advertising; and Julie Messner, Andmore. — Victoria Jarrett and Allison Zisko

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Howard Elliott throws party to celebrate silver anniversary

ecorative accessories company Howard Eliott is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a showroom party this afternoon.

Founded in 2001, Howard Elliott began with a collection of approximately 30 mirrors, some of which are still in the line. Over the years, the company has expanded its assortment to include decorative accessories, accent furniture, wall décor, textiles and more, and has evolved with the way people live and design, the company said. “Our industry has changed tremendously over the last

25 years, and we have loved growing and changing right along with it,” said President Brian Berk. “What makes this milestone especially meaningful is the community that has grown around Howard Elliott. We have built relationships and friendships throughout this industry, and we can’t think of a better way to celebrate 25 years than by bringing everyone together at High Point Market.” The party will be held from 4 – 7 p.m. in the company’s IHFC H324 showroom and will include food, signature cocktails and information about the 300 new products it is unveiling at the show.

Inaugural Diaspora in Design initiative wraps up today

iaspora in Design, a new initiative created to increase the visibility, opportunity and connection surrounding designers, makers, artists and creative traditions of the African Diaspora, debuted here in High Point this week and culminates today with a conversation entitled "What We Build Next." The inaugural gathering is bringing together furniture, textiles, interiors, sculpture, photography, heritage craft, music and cultural storytelling through four days of exhibitions, intimate conversations, panel discussions, demonstrations, networking and special events. At its center is a simple idea: the African Diaspora has long shaped the way the world lives, gathers, makes and creates. Diaspora in Design is building a dedicated space where those contributions can be experienced together, their histories can be explored, and new relationships can form among creatives, consumers and the design trade. “We’re building something that we hope extends far beyond this first gathering,” said Aishah Rashied Hyman, founder and designer of BODDO Studio and a co-founding organizer of Diaspora in Design. “There is extraordinary work being created across the African Diaspora. We want to bring greater visibility to the people making it, create meaningful connections and opportunities, and make room for conversations about where these traditions come from and where they can go next.”

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Featured presenters include: • Aishah Rashied Hyman of BODDO Studio • Jasz Diop of Tackussanu Senegal • Keith Jones of Kardigan Home • Master heritage furniture maker, historian and cultural heritage practitioner Jerome Bias • Interior designer, space curator and art advisor Johnathan Bailey of TBG Interior Design • Sculptor and educator Lydia C. Thompson • Master textile artist and global design voice Tayo Solomon Onadein • Photographer and Purcell House founder Amadeus Purcell Today’s closing discussion, “What We Build Next: A Conversation on Black Creativity, Commerce & Cultural Legacy,” features Jones, Tayo Solomon Onadein and Purcell and takes place from 4 – 5:30 p.m. at Cohab Space, 1547 W English Road, High Point, N.C. - Anne Flynn Wear

An Eye for the Extraordinary Our point of view is fueled by curiosity. We look closely at the objects, traditions, and techniques that carry ideas from one place to another. Across cultures and artistic disciplines, we follow the details that give an object its character: the provenance of a form, the transformation of a material, the trace of a hand, or a familiar reference interpreted anew. These discoveries shape a collection rich in influence and expression, created for designers who understand that the objects chosen for a space can become its defining pieces. V I S I T U S AT I H F C D 2 2 0 GLOBALVIEWS.COM | @GLOBALVIEWS

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Fall events at High Point Market FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF EDUCATIONAL AND SOCIAL EVENTS, VISIT HIGHPOINTMARKET.ORG/EVENTS Saturday, Oct. 17

9-10 a.m. Navigating the New Final Mile Home Furnishings Assn. Plaza Suites, 1-527 Explore how stronger final mile strategies can improve customer satisfaction, reduce risk, and create greater value through safer, more efficient and more responsive delivery operations. Speakers: Richard Tucker, Daylyn Bellamy 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Discover Your Best Sleep with a Custom Pillow Evaluation Down Décor, SAMS, M-5020 Dr. Layne Martin, co-founder of OpenAir Pillow, U.S. Navy Veteran and sleep expert, will offer complimentary personalized sleep evaluations. Understand how you sleep, why you sleep that way and which pillow support may be best suited to your body and sleep habits. The first 50 designers to visit will receive a limited-edition Travel Pillow as a gift. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Learn to Love High Point Market Tour Interior Design Society Member Lounge, Radio Building, 8th floor Join Wendy Woloshchuk and Jennifer Tampasis for the Learn to Love High Point Market Tour of at least five designer-friendly showrooms. Shuttle around Market on our tour trolley. End the day at the 10th birthday celebration of LuAnn Nigara's 'A Well-Designed Business' at Designmaster. Sponsored by the Interior Design Society and Studio Designer|Mydoma. Breakfast and lunch included. RSVP required. 9:30-11 a.m. Hot Spot Tours High Point Market Authority, The Point (on Commerce Avenue) Crafted by seasoned market veterans and 2026 Style Spotters Juliana Ewer and Isabel Ladd, each curated tour features two to three showroom stops. Meet at The Point at 9:15 a.m. for a 9:30 a.m. departure. RSVP required. 10-11 a.m. What Brand Partners Wish You Would Ask For High Point Market Authority, The Point (on Commerce Avenue) Learn how to tap into co-marketing opportunities, educational resources and brand support that

most designers leave on the table. Speakers: Jessica Duce, Anderson Gibbons, Claire Jefford, Libby Langdon, Jennifer Smiga 10-11 a.m. Double Your Revenue Without Doubling Your Hours: The 3 Profit Shifts for Highly Profitable Businesses Universal Furniture International, 101 S. Hamilton Design Business Strategist Melissa Galt reveals the three profit shifts that separate busy firms from highly profitable businesses. 10-11 a.m. Designed to Endure: Rethinking Longevity in the Modern Bath NKBA|KBIS, Broad Hall, 300 W. Broad Ave., Fl. 1 Dig into bath investment pieces and how to talk clients through buying once instead of buying again in five years. Visit NKBA.org/hpmkt for details. Speakers: Kaitlin Petersen, Beth Dotolo, Laetitia Laurent, Barb Fuller, Pam Durkin 10-11 a.m. Fireside Chat Series - The Edit Framework: Turning Your Photography into Your Most Powerful Market Regina Andrew, IHFC, IH-006 A proprietary five-part system that gives designers a clear, repeatable framework for turning their photography into a powerful engine for brand building, social growth, client attraction, and press. Speakers: Tori Sikkema, Mariah Rich. RSVP required. 10-11 a.m. The New Rules of Color 313 Space Hosted by Unique Kitchens & Baths, this conversation brings together Dawn Heuer, Amy Zolin, Kristin Harrison and Chasing Paper founder Elizabeth Rees, moderated by House Beautiful’s Carisha Swanson. The panel will explore how designers and clients are approaching color and pattern today, from the evolving definition of “neutral” to the tension between timelessness and personality. A light brunch will follow. 10-11 a.m. Behind the Beautiful Feed: Managing Cost Expectations in the Age of Social Media SAMS Seminar Room, T-1022 A conversation about balancing a strong online presence with transparent communication

regarding budgets, timelines and the realities of executing great design. CEU Hours: 1. Speakers: Jennifer Boles, Lori Paranjape, Megan Molten, Monet Masters, Tavia Forbes 10-11 a.m. Revenue Is Vanity. Profit Is the Point. Uttermost, IHFC, C-448 A conversation about the numbers behind a profitable design firm, from fees and product margins to overhead, cash flow and what you actually get to keep. Speakers: Michelle Lynne, Katie Decker-Erickson, Megan Dahle, Sara Carroll 10-11 a.m. Artist Talk with Roderick Hidalgo and Josh Kasper of Studio Kasa Amadi Collective, 520 S. Hamilton Join artist Roderick Hidalgo and Josh Kasper of Studio Kasa for an intimate conversation on art, materiality and the creative process. Explore how original work takes shape, how art lives within interiors, and how collaboration between artists and designers can bring new depth, texture and meaning to a space. 10-11:30 a.m. AI Powered Presentations in Minutes: Faster Workflows, Ethical Foundations. Hooker Furnishings, Showplace, 3rd floor Join Jenna Gaidusek, founder of AI for Interior Designers, to learn how designers are using AI to build polished, client-ready presentations in a fraction of the time. 10:30-11:30 a.m. AI That Sells: Practical Uses of AI for Retailers Home Furnishings Assn., Plaza Suites, 1-527 Learn how to use AI in simple, profitable ways without losing the human touch that closes sales. Speaker: Richard Harris 11 a.m. – Noon Retail Roundtable Universal Furniture, 101 S. Hamilton Street Join independent retailers Vicki Rulli and Tom Heaphey of Duo Home and Home Accents Today Editor-in-Chief Allison Zisko for a roundtable discussion about the systems, workarounds and solutions that can make the day-to-day business of retail run a little more smoothly. Got a retail operations headache? Bring it to our High Point roundtable. All are welcome!

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H I G H P O I N T O C T O B E R 1 7 , 2 0 2 6 S AT U R DAY 11 a.m.-Noon Living in Fashion: Where Couture Meets Curated Interiors Adriana Hoyos, 117 N. Hamilton, 2nd floor Join Adriana Hoyos, Stephanie Larsen, Isabel Ladd, Don Ricardo Massenburg, Andrea Peréz Hoyos and moderator Alena Capra to explore the intimate relationship between haute couture and high-end home interiors. Followed by an audience Q&A. Refreshments and light bites available. 11 a.m.-Noon Follow the Trends: A Future Snoops Tour Meet in IHFC Green Lobby, Future Snoops Display This guided tour through the IHFC building spotlights the colors, materials, products and trends that will influence the industry in the seasons ahead. Speaker: Jaye Anna Mize 11 a.m.-Noon The Luxury Client Standard: Building Your Business for High-End Clients Natuzzi Americas, Casa Italia, 130 W. Commerce, Discover how successful designers elevate their processes, communications, expertise and client care to create a practice worthy of high-end clientele. Speakers: Mel Bean, Erin Weir, Missy Walters 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Lens Matters: The Reality of Editorial Photography and Styling SAMS Seminar Room, T-1022 A conversation on the art and strategy of styling interiors. CEU Hours: 1, Speakers: Krissa Rossbund, Lisa Mende, Ben Johnston, Jesse Carrier, Mara Miller Noon-1 p.m. The Inside Track: How Top Dealers Work with Designers to Keep Them Ahead of the Market Chelsea on Green, 515 W. Green, 1st floor Panelists are Heather Karlie Vieira/ HKFA, Libby Padula/ French Bleue and Kerry Kuhlkin/ Kate Hornsby Design with Moderator Jaclyn Isaac/ Doni Douglas Design. Lunch will be served by Basil Catering following the event. RSVP required. Noon-1 p.m. Defining Americana: The Evolving Language of American Design Antique and Design Center, MS, G 1-74, G-8006, G-8007, G-8009, G-8010 Join moderator Ben Ashby of The Cottage Journal, along with leading interior designers for a conversation exploring how history, craftsmanship and collecting continue to shape the evolving language of American design. Noon-1:30 p.m. Better Together: Designer-Vendor Relationships that Build Trust and Profits Sarreid Ltd., C&D, 3D

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Designers Isabel Ladd, Samantha Cury and Cheryl Luckett will discuss the evolving partnership between luxury designers and the brands that serve them. Moderator: Dawn Brinson. RSVP required. 1-2 p.m. Designing for Human Health: The Power of Industry Collaboration SAMS Seminar Room, T-1022 An executive panel will explore how manufacturers and designers can work in partnership to advance human-centered design: Mark Phillips, chairman of Phillips Collection; Ryan Ranzino, vice president of sales at Crystorama; and two Science in Design certified designers, Janet Marena and Genna Jacobs Freemen. 1-2 p.m. The Evolution of Luxury & Craftsmanship: Hosted by Unique Kitchens & Baths Unique Kitchens & Baths, 313.Space, 2nd floor This discussion explores how the definition of luxury has shifted from status and price point toward authenticity, craftsmanship and intention, and what that evolution means for the way designers and brands communicate value to today's clients and customers. A light lunch to follow. Speakers: Molly Kidd, Haley Weidenbaum, Heather Cade, Ethan Kennon, Kelli Lamb. RSVP required. 1-2 p.m. Designer Panel | The Instinct Before the Edit: How Great Designers Build a Signature Point of View Amadi Collective, 520 S. Hamilton Explore how great designers train their eye, source what others miss and use instinct, curation and collecting to create rooms that feel as unmistakable as the brand behind them. Speakers: Antonio Deloatch Jr, Lina Galvão, Laura Mensch, Gina Hicks. 1-3 p.m. Kate Marker x Mitzi Launch Party Hudson Valley Lighting Group, MS, M-70, M-90 Sip a spritz and explore a collection built on soft neutrals and natural texture.

Commerce Avenue) Join a conversation with designers who will share the real-world lessons, practical insights and hard-earned wisdom they wish someone had told them earlier. Speakers: Nicole Culler, Reed Humphrey, Jennifer Hutton, Jessica Duce. 2-3 p.m. Design Collaboration: A Holistic Approach to Architecture, Interiors, Landscape & Construction in N.C. and beyond. Antique and Design Center Welcome Lounge Join moderator Bronwyn Ford and panelists Alex Ancona, Jason Williams, Jeff Allen and Mary Margaret Underwood for a conversation to examine the power of collaboration, the principles that guide thoughtful design. Sponsored by the North Carolina Chapter of the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art. Speakers: Alex Ancona, Jason Williams, Jeff Allen, Mary Margaret Underwood 2-3 p.m. Designing the Personality-Driven Kitchen NKBA|KBIS, Broad Hall, 1st floor Bold color is one of the key headlines of NKBA's 2027 Kitchen Trends Report. Hear from designers as they break down a playbook for specifying bold colors in the kitchen. Speakers: Sarah Robertson, Richard Anuszkiewicz, Andrew Shead, Sue Wadden, Jill Waage. 2-3 p.m. T.R.A.C.T.I.O.N- Methods for Business Mastery Home Furnishings Assn., Plaza Suites, 1-527 This session explores practical strategies for leading a thriving retail business, staying relevant in a changing marketplace and building a company that delivers value in the showroom and in the community. Speaker: Lorri Kelley. 2-3 p.m. NeuroArts: The Impact of Art on Our Minds and Bodies SAMS Seminar Room, T-1022 Join artists Roxanne Darling, Trisha Patel and Jenny Fisher as they explore how art can reduce stress, promote calm and positively influence physical and emotional well-being.

1:30-2:30 p.m. Fireside Chat Series - What AI Can't Appreciate: The Human Edge in Design's New Era Regina Andrew, IHFC, IH-006 As AI reshapes our industry, what sets a designer apart won't be the technology they can access, it will be the human edge. Speakers: Nora Gomez, Kyle Hayes, Caroline Stevenson, Stacy Garcia. RSVP required.

2-3 p.m. The Opportunity Gap: Challenging Assumptions About Growth and Success Fairfield Chair, 200 N. Hamilton, 100 In this conversation guided by Gail Doby, cofounder of Pearl Collective, panelists Christopher Todd, Heather Peterson and Sara Malek Barney will challenge common misconceptions about what drives growth and profitability. Hosted in partnership with Revolution Fabrics

2-3 p.m. Nobody Told Me This Was Part of the Job High Point Market Authority, The Point (on

2-4 p.m. The Closed Loop Home: Early-Release Book Signing with Crystal Bright

H I G H P O I N T O C T O B E R 1 7 , 2 0 2 6 S AT U R DAY Rhen.Ovations Studio, 106 W. Martin Luther King Join interior designer and author Crystal Bright for an early-release signing of The Closed Loop Home, a new book introducing a design method for creating spaces around how people actually think, live and function. A limited number of complimentary signed copies will be available to Market attendees. 2:30-3:30 p.m. Pillow Talk: The Science of Comfort, Pillow Construction, Performance & Design Applications Down Inc., SAMS, G-3019 A light, lively conversation about what’s really inside your pillows. This course explores the construction, performance and specification of decorative and sleep pillows across residential and hospitality environments. Participants will examine fill materials, chamber construction, fabric compatibility, ergonomic considerations, sustainability practices and longevity factors that influence both comfort and design performance. RSVP required. 3-4 p.m. Keynote Series – Evolution of the Home: The Consumer Shifts Reshaping Design & What it Means for Your Business High Point Market Authority, High Point Theatre Join a discussion of groundbreaking research exploring the evolving relationship between kitchen and bath professionals, interior designers and the home furnishings industry. Highlighting key findings from the NKBA and High Point Market Authority's Whole Home Design Study. Doors open at 2:30pm. Speakers: Bill Darcy, Tammy Covington, Kaitlin Petersen. 3-4 p.m. Fireside Chat Series – Soulful Maximalism: The Art of a Joyful Home with Amber Guyton Regina Andrew, IHFC, IH-006 An intimate and inspiring conversation with Amber Guyton, founder of Blessed Little Bungalow, as she shares her journey from corporate professional to influential designer, content creator and entrepreneur. Speakers: Amber Guyton, Kelli Lamb. RSVP required. 3-4 p.m. Marketing & Messaging Science SAMS Seminar Room, T-1022 Ericka Saurit of Saurit Creative and Jennifer Smiga of UltraViolet Agency will share proven strategies for positioning your brand and effectively reaching today's evolving marketplace. 3-4:30 p.m. Douglas Friedman: The Art of Interior Photography + 'Full Spectrum' Book Signing Theodore Alexander, 425 N. Hamilton Photographer Douglas Friedman joins stylist and editor Parker Bowie Larson to discuss the art of

photography and how to capture interiors in a way that brings spaces to life, while standing out to top shelter magazines and editorial audiences. Book signing and light bites to follow. . 3-5 p.m. Black Birch Homes & Design for Co. House Designs: Collection Expansion Launch Party Co. House Designs, IHFC, IH-300 Celebrate the launch of the newest Black Birch Homes & Design for Co. House Designs collection with an afternoon of connection, conversation and inspiration. Speaker: Jill Rolling. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Master Instagram Edits: Create Content That Elevates Your Brand Hooker Furnishing, Showplace, 3rd floor A practical session on mastering Instagram Edits, where you'll learn five essential editing techniques, discover time-saving tools, and gain the confidence to create polished, engaging content that resonates with clients and grows your business. Speakers: Linda Holt, Jessica Duce. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Closing the Visual Merchandising Gap Home Furnishings Asson., Plaza Suites, 1-527 Visual technology pioneer Clarence Chui shares how to evaluate visualization options, protect product accuracy, prioritize the biggest opportunities and create a realistic 90-day plan to strengthen both ecommerce and showroom selling. 4-5 p.m. Bookkeeping Essentials: Building a Financial Foundation for Your Business Universal Furniture International, 101 S. Hamilton Join Cindy Hodnett of Furniture Today as she moderates a conversation with Blair Ryan of The Dove Agency, Michelle Lynne of ML Interiors Group and The Design Bakehouse, and Birgit Klein of Birgit Klein Interiors, to break down the essentials of bookkeeping for design firms, from managing job costs and monitoring profitability to tracking monthly sales tax and making informed business decisions. 4-5 p.m. ART Talks: Developing your Brand with Christopher Todd Hubbardton Forge, IHFC, IH-211 Join us for an insightful ART Talk, moderated by Home Accents Today's Editor-in-Chief, Allison Zisko, to learn about Christopher Todd's journey from his Arkansas beginnings to the Oscars as Academy Awards Show set floral artist, to set designer for grand theatrical presentations, to holiday home design, to interior design for homes across the country and running retail boutiques in Las Vegas and Nashville.

4-5 p.m. And That’s Showbiz Baby, An Inside Look at the World of Production Design & Set Decoration Crystorama, IHFC, H-241 Set decorator Brian Patrick Flynn (HGTV Dream Home, HBO, Magnolia Network) moderates a conversation about the high stress, high profile world of set design and art direction with Emmywinning production designer James Pearse Connelly (Top Chef, The Kelly Clarkson Show, The Voice, Wheel of Fortune, Project Runway, The Bachelorette) and art director/design producer Dawn Marie Heuer (Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Trading Spaces, Hack My Home). 4-7 p.m. A Well-Designed Business Podcast 10th Birthday Party with LuAnn Nigara Designmaster Furniture, 201 S. Main Join LuAnn Nigara and special guests Sarah Daniele, Jude Charles, Kate O'Hara and Nicole Heymer for the exclusive premiere of a new documentary chronicling the podcast's journey. Cocktails, light bites, music, and valuable networking. RSVP required. 4-7 p.m. Howard Elliott 25th Anniversary Party Howard Elliott Collection, IHFC, H-324 Guests are invited to stop by the Howard Elliott showroom on Saturday evening to enjoy food, signature cocktails, new product introductions and a celebration of 25 years of Howard Elliott. 5-6:30 p.m. ART Social Hubbardton Forge, IHFC, IH-211 Members of ART and anyone interested in learning more about ART are invited to a gathering of colleagues from the A&D community. Sharon Davis and Allison John will be on hand to welcome you, along with interior designer Christopher Todd and members of the Hubbardton Forge team for drinks and bites. 5-7 p.m. The Designers Collaborative10th Anniversary Party Massoud Furniture, 310 N. Hamilton St. The Designers Collaborative invites their designer buying group members, industry supporters and vendors to join in the fun, while they raise a glass in celebration. Guests will enjoy catered delights and find connection with fellow designers who help make our community soar! RSVP to Attend. 7-9 p.m. Live Music at Center Stage High Point Market Authority, Center Stage Gates open at 6:30 pm, with early entry for buyers at 6:15 pm. Enjoy complimentary food & beverages. No admission for those under the age of 15. A valid Fall Market Pass is required for entry.

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H I G H P O I N T O C T O B E R 1 7 , 2 0 2 6 S AT U R DAY

Crystorama brings business, design and well-being to High Point

t market this week, lighting supplier Crystorama is bringing together designers, creative leaders, business strategists and industry experts for three days of programming that address issues such as the high-pressure world of television production design, the financial realities of building a profitable design firm, and the emerging science behind lighting and well-being. The weekend also includes Crystorama’s “That’s a Wrap” Party, celebrating its growing Tastemaker community, and Ladies That Lunch: The Power Lunch Edition, a reimagining of the traditional “ladies who lunch” concept focused on women building businesses, taking risks and creating their own seats at the table. All programming is open to registered High Point Market attendees.

Photos courtesy of Crystorama

Production designer James Pearse Connelly and art director Dawn Marie Heuer will share tales from the fast-paced world of production design and set decoration today from 4 – 5 p.m. in Crystorama’s showroom.

“Our showroom has always been about more than showcasing product. It’s a place where the design community can come together, exchange ideas and have the conversations that are actually impacting their businesses and their lives,” said Kristi Gulino, director of communications and brand partnerships. “We wanted to create programming that feels relevant to where designers are right now, from navigating pricing and profitability to understanding how the spaces we create affect the way people feel. And, just as importantly, we want to create opportunities for people to connect with one another.” From 4 -5 p.m. today, a panel discussion led by set decorator Brian Patrick Flynn explores the fast-paced world of production design and set decoration, and the creative pressure, tight timelines and what it takes to design memorable spaces for television. Production designer James Pearse Connelly of Studio Connelly and art director and design producer Dawn Marie Heur of The Heuer Design Collective will be part of the discussion, which will take place in Crystorama’s showroom (IHFC H241). It will be followed by the That’s a Wrap party with Crystorama’s many interior design Tastemakers.

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Tomorrow, Oct. 18, Crystorama will host another showroom panel discussion, from 2- 3 p.m., focused on how interior designers can generate higher design fees. Moderator Julia Nikishina, founder of New Age Financial Consulting, joins Daniel Paul of Tom Stringer Design Partners; Dalia Soles, founder of Design Assisted; Brooke Stoll, operations and profitability strategist; and Ashley Hughes, founder & principal of Muse Noire. Ladies Who Lunch will take place on Monday from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. in Crystorama’s showroom and will include a candid conversation moderated by designer Antonio Deloatch about building a business, taking risks and creating a career on your own terms. Juliana Ewer, Nicole Culler, Jewel Marlowe and Autumn Pochiro will participate in the discussion. Later Monday, from 2- 3 p.m. there will be a panel discussion about how light shapes the way we feel at home. Cindy Hodnett, executive editor, brand development at Bridgetower Media (owner of Home Accents Today) will moderate a discussion between designers Kat Blue, Blue Lantern Studios; Marie Cloud, Indigo Pruitt; Nina Lichtenstein, Custom Home Design; and Genna Jacobs-Freeman, Space Design Collective.

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Sarreid reimagines showroom, hosts Lunch + Learn today

arreid has redesigned its High Point showroom for this market, introducing a more residential presentation intended to reflect the company’s “modern heirlooms for the collected home” positioning. It is also bringing designers together for a Lunch + Learn this afternoon for a candid discussion about building relationships. The showroom, located in Space 3-D on the third floor of the C&D Building, is being reconfigured as Sarreid refines its assortment and places greater emphasis on furniture distinguished by craftsmanship, character and individuality.

Sarreid is introducing the Streetman ottoman at market this week. (Photo courtesy of Sarreid)

Samantha Cury

Isabel Ladd

Dawn Brinson

Cheryl Luckett

Rather than presenting products along uninterrupted sight lines, Sarreid has arranged much of the showroom as a series of room-like vignettes. The settings evoke foyers, living rooms, dining rooms and other residential spaces, showing visitors how pieces can work together in layered interiors that appear to have evolved over time. “I want designers and buyers to walk in and feel that the presentation matches the quality and point of view of the product,” said Mickey Sharpe, vice president of design and creative. “The goal is not to make every piece compete for attention, but to create thoughtful settings where special pieces can emerge, relationships between products become clear, and the idea of modern heirlooms for the collected home becomes something visitors actually experience.” The presentation will highlight products that represent the modernheirloom concept through their materials, finishes, functions and construction. In addition to the residential vignettes, the renovated showroom includes a hospitality area with a gathering bar, a leather gallery and a new sample library designed to serve as a working resource for buyers and designers. The Lunch + Learn, entitled "Better Together: Designer-Vendor Relationships that Build Trust and Profits," will feature designers Isabel Ladd, Samantha Cury and Cheryl Luckett in an unfiltered discussion about the evolving partnership between luxury designers and the brands and representatives that serve them. It will be moderated by Dawn Brinson of A New Day Creative Communications & Marketing. The conversation will look beyond product to the relationships that shape successful projects and businesses: what earns a designer’s trust, what causes that trust to break down and what transforms a sales representative from a vendor contact into an indispensable resource. Through candid stories of successes, frustrations and lessons learned, the panelists will explore what each side really needs from the other and how strong partners navigate the inevitable rough spots. The Lunch + Learn begins with lunch at 12 p.m., followed by the panel at 12:30 p.m. in Sarreid’s showroom. — Spencer Musick H O M E A C C E N T S TO D AY . C O M

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What’s one skill you’d like your entire team to learn? David Patton Director of Design Quorum International

Lee Schaak Founder Adesso

Adaptability. In today's market environment, everything is in flux. The established playbooks no longer work because the rules are still changing post-COVID. For me, adaptability has always been a critical skill for innovation teams, but now it is needed for a broader corporate culture.

How to have more fun!

Nancy Lonoff Principal, Designer Crystorama I’d teach everyone to think beyond their individual role. Great design doesn’t happen in a vacuum; it’s shaped by every decision along the way, from the initial concept and materials to engineering, sourcing, marketing, and ultimately the customer experience. When everyone collaborates and sees the bigger picture, we make better decisions, solve problems more creatively, and ultimately create better products.

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Pam Bailey VP of Product Development & Design Currey & Company We are all actively learning to use AI to better illustrate new design concepts. For lighting, we can find an amazing ceramic and turn it into a lamp in a matter of minutes. We can make a two-tier chandelier out of a single tier and in furniture, we can look at case goods with doors vs drawers and change leg designs. We can change the finish or materials in a few minutes for immediate scrutiny rather than waiting to see it completed — this cuts down on development time and sample expenses considerably!

FEATURING:

HOT LIST WHAT’S IN. WHAT’S OUT. WHAT’S NEXT

PANELISTS INCLUDE

CHERYL CLENDENON

HONORING: 40 UNDER 40 RECIPIENT DESIGNERS TODAY ICONS AWARD RECIPIENT

HEATHER MCMANUS

COREY DAMEN JENKINS KURT JACOB MILLER

MEGAN MOLTON

RESERVE YOUR TICKET TODAY!

MADELINE STEWART

SUE WADDEN

Limited Availability.

SUNDAY, October 18 4:00 – 6:00 PM Top Floor, Suites at Market Square

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Melissa Whitaker President/CEO Bassett Mirror Company

Adriana Hoyos Head Designer Adriana Hoyos Furnishings

I’d like everyone on our team to learn how to use AI as a practical tool. It can automate routine tasks, simplify complex reporting, and make information easier to act on, giving us more time to focus on the decisions, creativity and relationships that contribute most to the growth of our business.

Freehand sketching. It’s a skill I value tremendously and one that, unfortunately, has become less common with the rise of technology. There is something very powerful about being able to translate an idea directly from your mind onto paper. It encourages creativity, spontaneity, and a deeper understanding of proportion and form. Technology is an incredible tool, but I believe the ability to communicate an idea with your own hand remains an essential part of the creative process.

LaVern Hershberger President & Creative Director Abner Henry Curiosity — the ability to always ask, “What else is possible?” We have an incredibly talented team with a tremendous amount of knowledge in their individual crafts. I’d want to continue building on that by encouraging everyone to stay curious about materials, processes, design and how we can approach things differently. Some of our best ideas come from simply questioning how something has always been done.

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Jessica Duce Founder JDuce Design I’m looking into AI classes for my team. My goal is to help our workload and be more efficient.

Coming In December Reader Ranking Winner Coverage 2026

The response has been phenomenal! Thousands of votes were cast in the Home Accents Today Reader Ranking survey. We’ll tell you who won in our December issue.

Stay tuned!

homeaccentstoday.com

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Ned Baker Marketing Director and Client Liaison Tamarian I'd like my team to learn country line dancing.

Crystal Nguyen Vice President of Merchandise and Strategic Product Planning Coaster Furniture Success in any profession isn't just about raw skill — it stems from genuine passion. When you truly care about your work, curiosity naturally drives you to learn, precision guides your execution, and confidence backs your judgment every step of the way.

Rebecca Mattie Vice President Design Napa Home & Garden I'd love for the whole team to learn stamping and hand-painting chinoiserie motifs on porcelain. It's a technique that demands both discipline and artistry — precise placement, confident brushwork, and a real understanding of how pattern behaves on a curved, fired surface. Beyond the technical skill itself, I think it would deepen everyone's appreciation for the level of craftsmanship behind a finished piece and give the team a shared visual language rooted in a decorative tradition that's influenced ceramic design for centuries.

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Brian Berk President Howard Elliott “Show Up and Follow Up." If you master this, you will be ahead of 95% of your peers.

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Fion Ho Director of Product Development Sunpan

Meganne Wecker CEO Skyline Furniture

AI fluency. I don't mean replacing creativity; I mean knowing how to use AI to research faster, generate ideas, solve problems, and automate repetitive work. It gives the team more time to focus on better design and smarter decisions.

I’d love everyone to spend time learning about different parts of the manufacturing process. There’s something incredibly valuable about understanding how a product moves from an idea on a screen to something that is actually cut, sewn, upholstered, packed and shipped. It gives you a much greater appreciation for the craftsmanship involved and just how many people play a role in bringing each and every product to life.

Jamie Young Jeter Founder Jamie Young Co. Technology in all its forms where appropriate. I want my team to not be afraid of new technology as a tool. Not to replace people. The current tools we have access to are incredible to make people’s lives better in the work world. Saving time on administrative tasks or production of images, etc. We must have our people still thinking and being creative. Our people still drive all of it. But the tools are advancing, and we all need to get on that train.

Yang Lin Owner Greenington Furniture I would like every member of our team to strengthen their ability to see challenges through the customer's eyes. Whether we work in manufacturing, product development, operations or sales, understanding the customer's experience helps us make better decisions, communicate more effectively, and ultimately build a stronger company.

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High Point Market Preview 1

5 3 4

1 SU N PAN

4 PALACEK

2 ADRIANA H OYOS

5 JAM I E YOU N G

Composed of two interlocking rings, the Linked sculpture creates a play of light and shadow. Showplace 100 The Privé ottoman features a rounded upholstered form, contrasted by a tailored leather band. 117 N. Hamilton

3 CENTU RY

The Anthelion mirror is part of a new collection with designer Windsor Smith. 200 Steele, Fl. 2

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The Torrey table lamp features handwoven grasscloth wrapped over a tapered hardwood body. 200 N. Hamilton, Suite 200 The Finley fluted arched cabinet is Brutalist-inspired with streamlined storage. IHFC D223, IH505

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6 SKYLI N E/CLOTH & CO.

The Dia block-printed linen pillow is inspired by the Valley of Flowers in India. 220 Elm, 212

7 H I EN D ACCENTS

The Pacific Plaid bedding set offers an oversized camp-shirt tartan in navy, tan and white with wide-wale corduroy shams.. Showplace 2500

8 DEDON

The Tara coffee and side table collection are designed to nest together. 313 Space Fl.2

9 M OE’S H OM E

The Hannah cabinet is a millwork-inspired accent piece. IHFC C302

10 PARK H I LL COLLECTI ON

The porcelain horse statues highlight the brand's classic, European-estate aesthetic. IH501

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H I G H P O I N T O C T O B E R 1 7 , 2 0 2 6 S AT U R DAY 11 PARAGON

The Pines and Florence artwork captures the Italian city's beauty in giclée on linen. IHFC C203

12 ETH N I CRAFT

As a narrow accent piece, the Flow console features rounded corners and tapered legs. IH004

13 FOU R HAN DS

The angular Grenelle chair features a three-way chamfered cushion in a sink-in lounge seat. Showplace 4101

14 G LOSTER

The Ithaca lounge chair has an octagonal solid teak frame. 313 Space, Fl. 2

15 EI CH H OLTZ

The Albany side table features a green top with an antique brass finish. 129 S. Hamilton

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16 AB N ER H EN RY

The Ellie end table’s curved form and open design feel both tailored and playful. 214 E. MLK Dr.

17 JAI PU R LIVI N G

The Canyon rug pairs richly textured solids with innovative solution-dyed acrylic fibers. C&D Fl. 4

18 ROWE FU RN ITU RE

The Kindred dining chair has a curved back wrapped in a solid mahogany frame. Showplace 1100

19 LOLL DESI G NS

The Here and There bench is inspired by the iconic Leopold bench. 313 Space Fl. 1

20 N OI R

The Maharadsha sideboard is an oversized, architectural credenza with storage space. IH002

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21 LAVI N RUGS

The Nomad rug features a handwoven texture and a pattern inspired by handdrawing. IHFC C258

22 COOPER CLASSI C

The Harper wall mirror has a wavy woven rectangular frame and beveled glass IHFC D519

23 JGW FU RN ITU RE

The Comfort Pointe Keeley swivel accent chair is draped in rich, blue velvet fabric. 300 S. Centennial

24 M EM OI RE DESI G N

The rattan Sorrento side table features a distinctive circular ringed apron detail. SAMS G6037

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25 ALFRED PARADES

The Varaderos counter stool’s barrel back has detailed upholstery with nailhead trim. 313 Space, Fl. 2

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