The buzz of creative energy at Schwartz Design Showrooms is palpable in two recently-opened New Jersey showrooms and their established Connecticut location. These comprehensive trade-only interiors showrooms are known for collaborating with some of the most-coveted vendors in the industry. Under the stewardship of third-generation CEO and owner Alexis Varbero, the brand continues to push the design envelope by constantly adding to its roster of cutting-edge manufacturers. She recently shared how their new brands and new showrooms will inspire new ideas in 2023.
Fulton Street Design Center.
Gwen Donovan: Your three showrooms in Edison and Peapack-Gladstone, New Jersey and Stamford, Connecticut offer multiple lines of design inspiration. How do the showrooms continue to serve your design partners in new and innovative ways?
Alexis Varbero: Having more showroom square footage gives us enhanced opportunities to better display the over 300 manufacturers we work with. We are committed to creating an atmosphere where people can sit, touch and feel the products. As an example, we have dedicated 2,500 square-feet of showroom space solely to textiles and wallcoverings in our Edison location. And we most recently opened a third showroom location in Peapack-Gladstone.
GD: What are some upcoming design trends we’ll be seeing in 2023?
AV: We’ve noticed a significant switch from sharp-edged furniture to more rounded pieces. They are warmer and exude comfort. The color palettes are calming, and the lines are less severe.
GD: Are you identifying any styles or trends that are on their way out?
AV: Grey is on its way out, for now. Traditional is on the rise, mixed with clean, warmer-tone woods…pulling in organic looks.
GD: The recent addition of exciting new brands to your design portfolio (including Society of Wonderland, Aronson Woodworks, Jiun Ho and Osborne & Little) sets you apart from other showrooms in the region. What has the response been to these brands?
AV: The response has been overwhelmingly fantastic. Designers expect access to new collections, and we make it a goal to deliver them access to the industry’s finest, across multiple categories and price points. We are always looking for new partnerships and truly enjoy helping smaller companies and new brands just starting out. We pride ourselves on partnering with them to help them grow their lines. As a result, designers often refer Schwartz Design Showroom to these up-and-coming manufacturers, and we are grateful when they reach out to us.
GD: Can we expect to see more brands joining your line-up in 2023?
AV: As for future additions in 2023, we are moving toward a focus on further enhancing our home accessory offerings, stay tuned!
Fulton Street Design Center.
This Or That:
- Seating: comfy club chair or classic wing chair? Comfy club chair, hopefully with a cocktail!
- Wood table: Structured or live edge? Structured speaks to me.
- Artwork: abstract or realism? Abstract for the win.
- Wallpaper: colorful patterns or natural themes? We like organic natural themes with a splash of beautiful bold– like Society of Wonderland’s graphic line!
Read more from this series here.
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