Ever wonder how interior designers stay ahead of trends, source exclusive pieces, and keep your home or boutique space feeling cutting-edge? If you’ve ever heard a designer mention they’re “going to market” and smiled politely while silently wondering what that even means—you’re not alone.

In the world of interior design, "Market" isn't about farmers' stalls or weekly grocery runs. It’s an insider term that carries serious weight when it comes to curating the spaces you live and work in. Here’s what it actually means—and why it matters to you.

Amanda Croft of Studio Croft explores styling a sculptural centerpiece at a Global Views, a luxury home furnishings showroom during Dallas Market—curating bespoke pieces for client projects. — Global Views Showroom, Dallas Market, June 2023

What Exactly Is an Interior Design Market?

In design circles, "Market" refers to large, invitation-only trade events and design centers like the Dallas Market Center or High Point Market in North Carolina—often called the largest home furnishings industry trade show in the world. These are not public retail spaces. They're business-to-business showrooms where interior designers, architects, and retailers explore new collections, form industry relationships, and discover what’s next in the world of luxury interior design.

Interior Designers, like myself, regularly attend regional and national markets to bring exclusive access and insight back to their clients. Whether it's sourcing innovative commercial design products from NeoCon at Chicago's massive theMART building (formerly the Merchandise Mart- so large that it’s 25 stories take up two city blocks, it has it’s own L stop on the second floor and it even had it’s own zip code in the past) or sitting on a bespoke Italian sofa in a private showroom in Dallas, these trips are crucial for staying informed and inspired.

Why It Matters That Your Designer Goes to Market

Your designer isn't just window-shopping. These trips are strategic, informed, and deeply connected to the quality of your project. Here are four key reasons Studio Croft makes market trips a priority:

1. Access to Exclusive, Trade-Only Pieces

Many of the best custom furnishings, lighting, and art pieces aren't available to the public. Designers gain access to to-the-trade-only collections that bring a level of refinement, craftsmanship, and individuality that mass-market pieces simply can’t offer.

This means your space won't look like a Pinterest replica—it will feel deeply considered, personal, and timeless.

2. We Test Everything So You Don’t Have To

How does that sculptural dining chair really feel when you sit in it? Is that dreamy mohair sofa as durable as it is beautiful? At Market, we sit, touch, open, recline, and inspect every piece before ever recommending it to a client.

When I suggest that custom extension table or sectional, it’s because I have already vetted it—not just for aesthetics, but for quality and longevity.

3. Building Relationships That Work for You

A key part of market is building strong relationships with makers and reps. Having face time with manufacturers means I have a direct line when we need a lead time update, a custom finish, or fast-tracked delivery. These connections aren’t just nice to have—they streamline your project and solve problems before they reach your doorstep.

4. Staying Ahead of the Curve

Market is where future trends are born. From sustainable materials to modular design systems, it’s where innovation and inspiration collide. I use these insights to shape not just what’s beautiful, but what’s next—and how it can elevate your home or boutique business.

How to Stay In the Loop with Studio Croft

My clients love that I bring the best of Market back to them—not just in selections, but in inspiration and insight. Here’s how to stay connected:

Follow Studio Croft on Instagram to catch behind-the-scenes stories from Market (check out our highlights: "Market in 2020" , "Market 2023" and inspiring shorts like our Interior Design Color Trends series).
Subscribe to our Design Thoughts email. I shares personal insights, curated finds, and thoughtful reflections from each trip—no fluff, just meaningful design perspective delivered straight to your inbox.

Because when you work with Studio Croft, you’re not just investing in a beautifully designed space. You’re gaining access to the knowledge, relationships, and vision that make every detail matter.

Because Place Matters.

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