Favorite Woods 2011
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The Appalachian Hardwood Manufacturers Inc.’s (AHMI) annual “Furniture Styles and Material Use Survey” provides a snapshot of the wood and veneer being used by furniture manufacturers. Administered by the AHMI since 1934, the analysis tracks wood species and design style trends in home furnishings at the High Point market.

News of note is that solid American hardwoods were more evident at the market, especially in home theater cabinets. Solid American oak, cherry and American black walnut were the top species used in home theater cabinets that produced a bright spot at the High Point Market in October 2010, according to the AHMI. “The category has been increasing in recent years as consumers purchase flat panel televisions that require support,” AHMI reported.

American cherry was also the species of choice in other areas, found in 16 percent of bedrooms, 14 percent of dining room furniture, 20 percent of home office and 14 percent of entertainment cabinets. In second, American red oak, increased its share from 2009, seen in 10 percent of bedrooms, 10 percent of dining rooms and 7 percent of home office. It lead in use in entertainment cabinetry with 16 percent of product on display.

Consistent Favorite
Tom Inman, AHMI president, said that cherry continues to be a favorite for furniture, and consumers like its “depth, warmth and lasting value.” Red oak and walnut also were popular at the market with medium to darker finishes more in fashion. “The availability of American red oak, the most abundant species in the eastern U.S. forest, has also boosted its popularity with manufacturers.

Another trend noted in the survey was a decline in use of painted, printed wood and other materials, which accounted for 10 to 12 percent of the pieces. Inman said that spoke volumes to him about “the beauty of wood grain and the desire by designers to show it in their work.”

Inman added that there has been an upward trend in the use of solid wood and veneer over the past three years.

Source: Appalachian Hardwood Manufacturers Inc.. For information visit AppalachianWood.org

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