editor:Jessie

　　“Everyone knows that we’re in the era of the designer.”

　　So said a long-time furniture industry veteran at the April High Point Market, and many manufacturers and dealers agree. Fueled by the demands of a consumer market seeking a personalized aesthetic at just about every price point, the rising status of interior designers in the home furnishings industry is dictating a new approach for many companies, and participants on both sides of the trade equation are revising their business strategies in response.

　　In the latest issue of Design Today (click here to read), Progressive Business Media’s quarterly magazine for interior designers, Universal’s new To the Trade program is profiled along with some of the products that debuted for the line at High Point Market in April. Noteworthy for many reasons, To the Trade is an exciting addition to the supply-side landscape because it offers accessibility to a curated product line that wasn’t previously available from the manufacturer and also because it’s likely to herald the development of similar programs in the future.

　　Passion and Profit is a new series that will offer practical strategies designers can use to improve their client roster, list of projects and profitability. According to a recent salary survey conducted by Gail Doby and associates, most interior designers don’t feel like they are paid enough for their professional expertise, and Doby is going to highlight strategies and best practices that designers can take to correct substandard salaries.

　　Product introductions from markets around the world highlight international trends and a recap of some of the best items seen at High Point Market showcase ongoing and future style preferences in upholstery, case goods and accents. Traveling PBM editors also explored the origins of some iconic furniture designs while they were out and about, as well as new interpretations of favored classics.

　　Additional new features include Street Scene, a snapshot of happening retail destinations and Build the Room, an ongoing segment that will address specific design projects for different rooms in the home. For summer, kitchen product options at multiple price points are front and center.

　　Technology supports it — and the overwhelming preference for personalized spaces demand it — this era of the designer. Take a look at some of the resources that are going to help interior designers maximize the potential of the shift.

　　(furniture today)