Blurring the boundaries

Paging Brad Pitt…

“Furniture Futures,” the first in a series at the V&A is tapping influential designers and industry heavyweights to discuss how contemporary furniture is blurring the boundaries among art, craftsmanship and design.
The event coincides with the growing awareness of furniture as an expression of contemporary culture, and is structured around three main themes: Creative Directions, Changing Practice, and Promotion and Communication. Additional topics include whether furniture is a new art form; what role new materials and sustainability play in making and design; and whether individual creativity or collaboration in the key to innovative practice.
The Symposium will be held September 18, 2009 and is part of the London Festival of Design.

Furniture Buying Index slides to 55

The Furniture Buying Index has fallen two points to a reading of 55, the same as this time last year, according to America’s Research Group.
“More and more consumers are concerned about the national debt and are worried about government interference,” said Britt Beemer, chairman of America’s Research Group.
“Job security is a major worry for many Americans,” Beemer said. “... These fears have many consumers much less enthusiastic about buying furniture."
While consumers are hesitant to invest in furniture, it's important to remember that you can only put off a purchase for so long. Eventually, you have to buy a new chair, bed or furnish a home. The purse strings will loosen but probably not until next year.