Practicality is key for sales at Furniture Outlet
Trends are one thing, but what is it the public are buying? For Ianto Bellis, Furniture Outlet md, practicality is what sells. Earthy tones, texture, storage and ease of use
are what the five-store Essex and London chain has seen consumers shop for.
‘There is a move toward warm textures, durable materials and practical designs suited
to modern living. A warm, grounded palette is shaping UK interiors this year,’ he says.
For Furniture Outlet, top sellers are shades such as chocolate, mocha, latte, stone and cream, followed by warm neutrals like oatmeal, seashell, champagne and soft cream linen. Green remains one of the strongest colour families, ranging from olive and
moss to sage, forest and deeper heritage greens across upholstery, dining chairs and ottoman beds. Pumpkin, burnt orange, copper and rust red are becoming more popular as accent colours.
‘Muted blues, such as navy and mottled blue fabrics are still finding buyers, but
warmer neutrals, greens and earthy browns remain the dominant choices. Interiors
are shifting toward calming, nature‑inspired palettes that feel warm, grounded and restorative,’ says Bellis.
‘Soft‑touch fabrics create a warm, inviting feel that works in both modern and traditional homes, and popular choices include oatmeal chenille corner sofas, moss green woven fabrics and champagne‑tone recliners. Textured chenille, woven blends and natural linens are defining UK living rooms this year as people are prioritising comfort and tactility, choosing fabrics that feel cosy, durable and lived‑in.’
Shoppers are also looking to maximise the space they have, particularly in new‑builds, and modular upholstery is popular. The demand for practicality has reached dining, where heat‑resistant, scratch‑resistant and stain‑resistant table surfaces are sought
after. ‘White or light grey sintered stone tops with subtle multi‑coloured veining are especially in demand, often paired with black metal bases for a clean, modern look. Shoppers want premium‑looking dining tables that offer everyday practicality without
the upkeep of natural marble.’
Shoppers also want to tailor what they buy to their situation, rather than accepting someone else’s decision on how many chairs are needed. ‘People want dining spaces that feel individual and layered rather than fully coordinated. Customers are mixing
chair styles, colours and materials to create curated, characterful dining spaces. A common combination is white sintered stone tables paired with burnt orange, cream
and olive dining chairs.’
They also want movement‑friendly dining chairs. ‘Swivel bases, cantilever frames
and soft‑touch fabrics offer comfort and flexibility, making them ideal for multifunctional
dining spaces. Customers’ homes are becoming more adaptable, and flexible seating supports both everyday use and entertaining.’
One sales pattern that shows no sign of slowing down is bedroom storage. ‘Ottoman storage beds are becoming a bedroom essential, particularly in new‑build homes
where storage is at a premium.
‘Shoppers want furniture that feels modern, comfortable and practical. The trend
we’re seeing reflects real homes: warm textures, durable dining materials and colours that work in any space. People are choosing pieces that look great and stand up to everyday life. Homes are becoming more layered, more personal and more focused
on long‑term usability.’
