Rona's 2009 trends - 'Era of the beiges is gone'

I had the pleasure of hitting up the launch of the 2009 Rona by Design collection yesterday morning, and came back with a ton of inspiration!

Rona's trend consultant, Josette Buisson, gave a great presentation on the program, which, she says offers "a ready to wear design menu" for people who have a lot of interest in redoing their decor, but a "high level of confusion when they get started."

Buisson said the economic downturn has changed consumer habits, causing them to search for a good deal on products that are convenient, long lasting and eco-friendly.

And those products are safe, comfortable and timeless, with a touch of whimsy and industrial looks. She said people are also looking for products that have a human touch, something that "even if it has been mass produced ... looks handmade."

Rona's 2009 colour palette draws on nature-inspired hues and patterns, particularly soft hues with rich grey-based tones. "The era of the beiges is gone," Buisson said.

Other trends highlighted include products with a retro-modern vibe, splashy prints and wallpaper, visible wood grain (i.e. wood that actually looks like wood!) and the recycled look, mini tiles and mosaics, metallics, drum shades, and juxtaposing black and white with a lot of texture.

Rona has broken these trends into three main styles - Oasis, for a calm, soothing look, Spirit for a vibrant, whimsical space, and Global Village for a more ethnic-inspired room.

Buisson described Spirit as very attractive to the video game generation - and it seems like she was dead on, as I adore the bedroom and backyard, shown, from that line!

For more on Rona by Design, check out their website.