It's been over 10 years since I was last at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair, ICFF. I spent two days walking Javits Center taking in the over 3000 vendors, talking with makers and seeing what's new and catching my eye. If you've never been, this is a great place to get inspired and meet some talented people in the industry.

Overall, there is a lightness and almost playfulness happening to a lot of the furniture and fixtures. For so long, this industry has been serious, paired down and minimal. I'm not sure if it's the political landscape or just need for change but things are changing! Colors are lighter, more muted or floral. Silhouettes are either slim and narrow, thick and chunky, or a balance of both. Instead of the geometry that has been taking over our Instagram feeds, organic, graceful shapes were catching my eye.

Brass is still holding strong, over 10 years later and I don't see it going anywhere. Sorry if you lived through the polished brass of the 80s and can't stand the sight of it, it's not going anywhere. Polished and enameled metals are making a comeback, we've been matte-black-murdered-out for years, let's get glossy! The bare bulb is getting a classy makeover with blown glass shades, diffused lighting as well as integrating light in new ways like rope or chain.

There is a bigger push in the smart home/life and seamlessly integrating technology. Chairs are doubling as charging stations and personal conference rooms (Poppin Chair), lighting controls are not only functional but also beautiful pieces of jewelry on the walls (Juniper Dimmers). Environmentally friendly pieces are looking as fresh as ever. Big applause for the recylced (115+ plastic bottles) Emco and Jasper Morrison 1 inch chair in a great color palette. As well as the Coolican x Calla bench using a fashion designer's fabric scraps on the traditional shaker style bench.