A sustainable star of Fall Market, PURE BY AMI MCKAY presented the Earth Sedge Sofa created from biodegradable latex rubber, FSC certified hardwood frames, non-toxic adhesives, organic cotton batting, and OEKO-tex certified fabrics.

No, it wasn’t shoulder-to-shoulder crowded — the sightseers and window-shoppers stayed home. But those who did attend the Fall 2008 High Point Market were there to get to work sourcing new products and experience Market’s enhancements.

On opening day of Market, discussions were peppered with the previously announced shift in dates for the Summer Las Vegas Market. “We will not make changes to High Point,” Brian Casey, president and chief executive officer of the High Point Market Authority, told members of the press. “High Point is here to stay and will remain strong.”

A welcomed focus of Fall Market was the interior design community. According to Market statistics, more than 15,000 designers sourced High Point for their clients. Manufacturers and industry observers alike assessed that the Designer Market is a thriving segment of the home furnishings industry.

Big statements at Market included Made In America, Licensed Products, Elements of Nature, and Sustainability. One standout sustainable manufacturer was PURE, headed by Ami McKay, president of residential and hospitality interior design firm Ami McKay Design. A true representation of how well sustainability marries with luxury, PURE offers four collections — Earth, Air, Fire and Water — including chairs, tables, sofas and more. The pieces, which may be custom-built and personalized by choice of fabric color and embroidered design, feature FSC Certified hardwood frames, organic cotton batting, non-toxic adhesives, and much more.

Along with a new logo, Guildmaster introduced the oval Canopy Fields Provence Drink Cabinet finished in an antiqued white Vintage Cygne Blanc.

Celebrating its 40^th Anniversary in grande style, The Selva Company introduced the regal Tzar Collection of dining and occasional furniture. Included are 14 pieces crafted in Cherry and offered in such finishes as Dark Walnut and Antique Walnut.

The Iron Strap Chandelier from Cisco Brothers was one of the contemporary new designs presented at the CA Boom EAST Design Show.

Also popping a few corks in celebration was Guildmaster, which introduced artistic new collections and unveiled a new logo. The script logo, in weathered espresso with a crimson brush stroke, aptly reflects the company’s artisan, handcrafted style.

The holidays came early at Company C, which garnered attention by introducing its first-ever holiday collection. For sale at the end of October, the collection includes hand-hooked area rugs and decorative pillows. Traditional and contemporary motifs adorn the products.

Another highlight at Market was the debut of the CA Boom EAST Design Show at Mill Village. This contemporary, gallery-like setting presented designers from across the United States, including Ku Ambience, blankblank, Cisco Brothers and more. To celebrate, High Point Mayor Rebecca R. Smothers joined delighted attendees at an inaugural ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The new Coastal Living by Stanley Furniture collection introduced an affordable coastal look and feel to buyers.

In licensing news, fans of both Surya and designer Candice Olson converged on Surya’s showroom to meet Olson and see her licensed rug collection. Surya presented 18 new Olson-designed rugs hand-tufted of 100% New Zealand wool. Patterns include sophisticatedly edgy graphics and color stories.

Finally, Stanley Furniture made Market news with the introduction of Coastal Living by Stanley Furniture. Reflecting the lifestyles of America’s coasts, the collection features multiple style options organized into three dominate color ensembles. This introduction is a notable departure for Stanley, offering affordable options in cottage-themed styling.

Spring Market will be here before you know it — April 25-30, 2009. In the meantime, don’t miss the December ‘08/January ‘09 edition of HomeFashion for expanded Market, trend and new product coverage.