A new year means new ideas in hotel furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E), so what’s in, what’s out, and what’s next for 2012? The answers can be found by looking at three specific topics: color, texture, and furniture.

First, some background to put my comments into perspective.

Hotels are part “home” and part “escape” – they combine the practical amenities we need on the road with the intangible emotional feelings we have when we travel. They reflect our mindset, namely, the world we live in as well as the dreams we aspire to.

It’s not surprising, then, that hospitality trends are influenced by a variety of economic, social, and even political issues around the globe. This year, those issues and influences include:

• The Economy – as we continue to recover from the worldwide recession, renovations will increase, especially at properties that have been neglected in recent years when owners have been strapped for funds

• The News – some news is good and some is bad, but when major events get our attention and make an impression, they usually are translated into our tastes and preferences, at least until the next “big thing” comes around – consider the royal wedding, ...