Tariff Predictions and How They'll Affect Your Interior Design Projects

As new tariffs loom, Denver interior design and decorators face potential challenges, including increased costs for materials and longer wait times for furniture and materials not made in the U.S. These changes could impact your renovation plans, especially if you're aiming for completion before the holiday season.

Why Tariffs Matter for Your Home

The upcoming tariffs are expected to raise prices on imported goods, particularly those from Asia. This includes many home furnishings and decor items, with projected price hikes between 20-40%. Additionally, supply chain disruptions may lead to longer wait times for furniture and materials sourced internationally.

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Embrace American-Made Brands

To navigate these challenges, consider sourcing from American-made brands that use domestically sourced materials. These companies are less likely to be affected by the tariffs and can offer more predictable pricing and delivery times. Some notable American-made home decor brands include:

• Schoolhouse: Known for timeless lighting and home goods.

• All-Clad: Offers high-quality cookware made in the USA.

• Chasing Paper: Provides peel-and-stick wallpaper with unique designs.

  • Spoonflower: Their products are printed in America but some materials do come from abroad. So they might have some price increases but their wait times shouldn't be affected.

• Framebridge: Specializes in custom framing with American craftsmanship.

  (Note: I will always prefer custom framing through one of my partners but if materials can't be sourced in time for your end date of project, this is a solid runner up.)

• BenchMade Modern: Offers customizable sofas and sectionals made in the USA .

Collaborate with Local Colorado Artisans

Given the potential cost increases for imported furniture, working with local artisans can be a cost-effective and unique alternative. Custom pieces crafted by local experts not only support the community but also ensure your home reflects your personal style. Here are some Colorado-based artisans to consider:

Painters

•  Brook Proctor Visual Art – is a Denver painter creating sophisticated, soulful works.

• Katie Jackson of Modern Magic – A multidisciplinary artist and designer, Katie creates richly layered gouache paintings in smaller sizes that celebrate the sacred in the everyday. Her use of color, nature-inspired forms, and attention to symbolism make her work especially powerful in spaces meant for reflection and beauty.

• Kristen Abott – Minimal, warm abstracts—pieces from Kristen hung in our previous studio and they brought so much calm.

Pottery

• Twisted Pine Pottery – Based in Denver, Karley Hoffman crafts handmade pottery inspired by Colorado's wilderness. Her pieces are known for their organic forms and earthy glazes. 

• Fenway Clayworks – Organic shapes, rich glazes, and incredibly special pieces that never feel mass-produced.

• Boulder Potters' Guild – A collective of about 80 local artists mastering a wide range of ceramic processes, from earthenware to high-fire porcelain. 

  
  

Woodworking

• The Local Knot – Denver-based woodworking business offering quality, unique, handmade wood items, including custom orders. 

• Dancing Grains Woodworks – Located in Boulder, they produce original designs in furniture, cabinetry, doors, and other architectural and artistic woodwork. 

• Eden Oaks Woodware – Serving Denver and beyond, Eden Oaks specializes in custom woodworking, creating stunning architectural woodwork for homes and companies of all sizes. 

  
  

Metalsmithing

• Haley Bates – Based in Fort Collins, Haley's work explores human interconnectedness through the lens of function, design, and craft, utilizing materials like wood and steel.

• Kim Harrell – A silversmith and jewelry artist creating distinctly textured and clean-lined jewelry and silverware using precious metals.

  
  

Glassblowing

• Jared and Nicole Davis – Operating North Rim Glass in Crawford, they create stunning, one-of-a-kind hand-blown glass sculptures inspired by nature.

• Ambrosia Glass Art – Offers one-of-a-kind blown glass vessels, sculptures, custom lighting, and memorial glass art, along with glass blowing classes.

• The Furnace: A Glassworks – Located in Lakewood, this studio is known for decorative, sculptural, and functional hot glass art, represented by over 100 galleries and private collections across the country.

  
  

Collaborating with these local artisans not only supports the Colorado creative community but also allows you to incorporate unique, handcrafted pieces into your home. Given the potential cost increases and delays due to upcoming tariffs, investing in locally made, custom items can be a timely and meaningful choice for your renovation or decorating projects.

Plan Ahead for the Holidays

If you're considering a home renovation or redecorating project, now is the time to start. Beginning your project early can help you avoid potential delays and cost increases due to the tariffs. By sourcing materials domestically and collaborating with local artisans, you can create a unique and personalized space ready to welcome guests for the holidays.

Navigating the changing landscape of interior design requires foresight and adaptability. By focusing on American-made products and local craftsmanship, you can mitigate the effects of upcoming tariffs and create a home that truly reflects your style and values. But what will end up saving you the most in the long run is an expert who knows how to navigate the design world and find the vendors you need for your project. Schedule your first consult today and let's make your house feel like home.