High Point Market Fall 2025: A First-Time Visitor’s Take
As a Canadian designer, I finally checked something off my professional bucket list this October. I attended High Point Market (HPMKT) for the very first time! I spent three full days exploring, sourcing, and soaking it all in, and I wanted to share a few insights from a first-timer’s perspective.
For those unfamiliar, High Point Market is the largest home furnishings trade show in the world with over 11 million square feet of showrooms (yes, you read that right) spread across nearly 180 buildings. The market happens twice a year, in April and October, and typically draws between 70,000 and 80,000 attendees. It’s the event for designers, retailers, and manufacturers to connect, source, and spot trends.
1. Go With a Guide (If You Can)
I attended alongside a fellow designer who had been several times before and that made all the difference. Having someone who knows the lay of the land helps you navigate the maze of buildings, shuttles, and showroom appointments without feeling overwhelmed. But if you’re going solo, don’t let that stop you. The Market offers plenty of resources and events for first-timers, and the community is incredibly welcoming.
2. Know Your Purpose Before You Go
It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement (and sheer scale) of Market, so arriving with clear goals is key. Are you sourcing for current projects? Looking for new vendors? Hunting for inspiration or trends?
Knowing your “why” will help you prioritize and manage your time.
For us, our main purpose was sourcing for an active client project and checking in with existing sales reps. Relationships are at the heart of this business, and reconnecting in person was invaluable. I’d suggest mapping out your days by area or building so you’re not zig-zagging back and forth. If you do plan to attend any panels or networking events, schedule your showroom visits nearby to make the most of your time.
3. Three Days Was Just Right
Did we see it all? Not even close. But in three days, we covered everything we needed to. We focused on priority vendors, made great connections, and left with plenty of new product options. We didn’t attend any of the keynote talks or presentations this time—but that’s okay. Knowing your objectives helps you make peace with what you skip.
My biggest piece of advice? Plan your days strategically, wear comfortable shoes, and hydrate. You’ll walk miles, and by the end, you’ll be happily exhausted.
4. Product Highlights (and a Few Honest Thoughts)
Let’s be real: not everything was a “wow” moment. I could go a while without seeing another barrel-shaped swivel chair, and I found many lighting lines a bit underwhelming this season. That said, a few pieces truly stood out and reminded me why I love what I do.
I especially enjoyed exploring fabric and wallpaper vendors—Kravet and Fabricut were top of my list, and I’m eagerly anticipating the York x Jonathan and Drew Scott wallpaper collaboration. I’ve been loving the English countryside aesthetic for the past few years, and it was lovely to see it represented in such charming, layered vignettes.
5. Final Thoughts
Overall, High Point Market was far more organized and easy to navigate than I expected. The reps were generous with their time—some spent two or three hours with us walking through collections and talking product. The atmosphere felt collaborative, inspiring, and grounded in relationship building.
If you’re a designer who’s been curious but hesitant, my advice is simple: go. Be strategic, pace yourself, and let the experience expand your creative horizons.
And yes—prepare to be utterly knackered by the end. But in the best possible way.
