Designs of a Decade

Decor trends come and go and sometimes make a comeback. From glowing bars to small plates to plexiglass everything, the rental industry has seen a lot of looks over the past ten years. But these items aren’t simply decorative: they have influenced how people interact at events, too. Rental execs weigh in on the major trends, both passing and permanent.

Tabletop Trend of the Decade

“The days of matching five-piece place settings have gone. Now it is acceptable to mix patterns and shapes throughout the course of dinner. Traditional mixed with contemporary pieces is also an emerging trend, along with an introduction of color to dining plates.”

Mary Crothers, Chair-Man Mills, Toronto

Chairs of the Decade

“The Louis Ghost chair by Philippe Starck is a timeless icon. Introduced by Kartell in 2002, this modern reinterpretation of a classical shape continues to bring a fresh look to events in 2011 and beyond.” 

Bobby Taylor, Taylor Creative Inc., New York

“Chiavari chairs remain an event mainstay. Play with patterned or coloured chair sashes to add colour to simple overall decor.

Sofa of the Decade

“White leather never gets old, never goes out of demand. It works for every style and theme with some pillows, lighting, and accents as long as it has simple, clean lines.” 

Lindsay Cosimi, AFR Event Furnishings, Orlando

Design Trend of the Decade

“Far and away, the largest trend in design for events over the past ten years has been the lounge. While 10 years ago, sitting next to the same person for a four-hour event seemed to work, now people want to work the crowd and talk to everyone, which is why the lounge is so appealing.” 

Christine Merser, Classic Party Rentals, New York

Plate of the Decade

“Although round white china is still an industry staple, most high-end events now use square white plates for the cocktail hour and hors d’oeuvres. A six-inch square plate is perfect for the small plates trend that has swept through the catering industry.” 

Nancy Brockway, Hall’s Rentals, Chicago

Lighting of the Decade

“We have seen the advent of lighted furnishings including tables, pedestals, columns, and bars. The soft glow created by LED lighted furnishings is now an integral part of most events that take place in the evening.” 

Kevin Dana, Cort Event Furnishings, San Francisco

Customization

“Customization is one of the biggest trends. Our most popular rental items in our inventory are the ones we create in our fabrication studio, working with materials including salvaged wood, acrylics, and metals. We find that clients want totally custom rentals, not pieces you can import from China that everyone else has.”  

Michael Nedeau, PBD Events, Boston

-BizBash