NorthCape International, manufacturer of high-end, all-weather–wicker outdoor furniture and accessories, has announced that a positive response from the casual and home-furnishings segments was received by its 2013 collections during the recent Chicago International Casual Furniture & Accessories Market™. Kim Golson, sales manager, says, “Overall response from both current customers and potential new customers was very positive. Many retailers are realizing the potential of the outdoor category, and the outdoor–indoor positioning of our products is a perfect fit.”

The products on display in the NorthCape showroom during the weeklong market included five new collections with deep seating, dining, and multiple tabletop designs. Known for its offerings in both contemporary and traditional styles, NorthCape highlighted collections with innovative constructions, including a 15- millimeter thick weave. The weave was introduced in two color options: willow and cappuccino.

Golson feels that the popularity of the company’s lines for the casual- and interiorfurnishing segments is due to the indoor–outdoor use of woven products, as well as NorthCape’s ability to educate and provide insight into the outdoor category. “As interior-furnishing entities enter the category, they are learning not only about outdoor product constructions, but about the properties and design options of performance fabrics as well,” Golson says. “Our design team is able to assist in selection, based on colors and weaves suitable for the outdoor room.”

In the contemporary category, the popularity of sectionals continued to grow for next spring due to the product’s ability to adapt to multiple space layouts. In 2012, sectionals composed 45% of the company’s sales. Despite this fact, NorthCape saw growth in other areas as well. “Although modern designs have been a trend for the past two years, we also are seeing a surge in our more traditional deep seating groups,” Golson says.