They say that time changes everything. While it might not be true about everything, it is certainly true about design trends found in homes. Families have said so long to the traditional and formal decorating styles that were once popular. Buyers have shifted into purchasing more casual, contemporary pieces of furniture for their homes. "Styles today reflect more of the average person, more causal and family-friendly," said Debbie Gursley, product buyer at The Old Cannery in Sumner. "These trends are what influence the furniture industry."

The biggest trends seen this year include espresso-colored pieces as well as anything with an industrial-influenced look or made with reclaimed wood. These trends can be seen in anything from dining tables, bar stools, bookcases and accessories. Gursley said that these trends are not only seen in the home but have really taken off with interior decorating in buildings and even restaurants. "It truly is about casual comfort and a relaxed atmosphere," said Gursley. These popular trends have spread across the country and have become increasingly popular as time goes on. So much so, that even The Old Cannery has done some remodeling in their store to reflect these new design trends.

Gursley first saw the trend introduced at trade shows and noticed it caught on quickly with the public. With over 30 years of experience in the furniture business, Gursley has an eye for what works and what the public wants. The Old Cannery strives to be the trendsetters for the local vicinity, so they began to bring in many of these new designs early on, which have proven to be popular. They regularly get customers who are looking for specific types of furniture, which tend to follow the popular design trends. Many, but not all, of the pieces found at The Old Cannery are one-of-a-kind, which buyers love.

While the furniture pieces have been extremely popular, it is important to not forget how accessories can really make a room complete. "Accessories are the frosting on the cake," said Gursley. "They really finish a room and set it off the top."

People are eagerly snatching up unique light fixtures, pillows with verbiage on them, family-friendly signs for the walls, and table-top accessories. According to Gursley, placement matters. "Accessories really complete and enhance every setting."

Even though the trend of using industrial-inspired pieces or reclaimed wood creations is still a bit new, Gursley thinks the trend is here to stay. "It is a trend that is growing and everyone loves it," she said. When it comes to decorating today, families tend to seek out the more unique and one-of-a-kind pieces to pull together a room in their home. While anyone can flip through a magazine and copy a design they see, it makes it more fun and personal to choose pieces that perhaps mean something to you. Of course, be sure to choose pieces that you like, as you will be living in that space.

No matter how a family chooses to decorate, one trend that never goes away is how functional it is for the family who lives there. Gursley echoes that sentiment by reminding everyone that it is important to make their space their own. "I encourage everyone to be happy and enjoy their personal space."

For more information or to shop for your very own furniture pieces, feel free to visit The Old Cannery. 13608 Valley Ave. East in Sumner or via their website: www.oldcanneryfurniture.com