An article abstract follows:

This year, two things will shape the way we live: the global economic downturn and a heightened environmental awareness.

Everyone is jittery about doing anything that involves spending resources. And we can see why: it begans with doomsday warnings about global warming at the beginning of last year, and ended with a worlwide economic crisis. SO what does this mean for our lifestyle in 2009?
Renowed Italian design firm ZAAFDesign's Paola Giordano says: " A slowing economy causes people to stay home. So they will improve their homes and upgrade spaces where they dine and wathch movies."
At Paris's top design fair, the Maison & Objet, eco- consciousness manifested itself in earthier hues, handmade objects and a revival of real vintage. The Milan Furniture Fair 2008, where the trends of 2009 where birthed, was focused on sustainable design with its Green Energy Design Installations, modern classic renaissance and modular, foldable furniture. Germany's big design festival IMM Cologne went green too with innovative bamboo furniture.
We show you what the trends of 2009, influenced by the economy and the environment, will look like in your home.

Wild for Wood

Contrary to popular belief that wood furniture is not eco-friendly unless it is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, it is actually gnetler on the environment than furniture made from synthetic materials. The proportion of timber that goes into the furniture industry is a tiny fraction - probably causing less than 0.2 per cent of foresty depletion, says awardwinning British Designer Luke Huges of Luke Huges & Company.
And designed well, wood furniture lasts for centuries. He cites the Plank Living range by Nathan Yong at Air Division as a prime example of well-designed timber furniture celebrating craftsmanship and the beauty of wood.