Daily Furniture & Home Renovation Brief | 2026-04-18

Selected updates from the last 7 days for furniture and home improvement operators.

SEO Summary: Daily furniture and home renovation news roundup with market trends, design updates, and retail insights. Featured: 40-year-old furniture chain files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy; Proposed bill could change regulation for registered interior designers in TN, removing them from state licensing board.

1. 40-year-old furniture chain files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy

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markets closed US Markets US Markets Europe Markets Asia Markets Cryptocurrencies Rates Commodities Currencies U.S. The furniture industry has cited declining sales, as a result of a multi-year housing slump, and rising product and labor costs driven by inflation and higher tariffs, for a reduction in furniture company sales and profits.

2. Proposed bill could change regulation for registered interior designers in TN, removing them from state licensing board

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SB2224 would eliminate Tennessee’s voluntary registration for interior designers and remove them from the Board of Architectural and Engineering Examiners. Susan Ballard, a registered interior designer since 1992, said the proposed bill could open the door for anyone to offer interior design services without formal training, which poses safety concerns to the public.

3. 2026 Australian Interior Design Awards shortlist: Public Design

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2026 Australian Interior Design Awards shortlist: Public Design | ArchitectureAu You are using an outdated browser. See the full gallery of shortlisted projects on the Australian Interior Design Awards website .

4. America 250: Evolving home design trends reflect American values

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America 250: Evolving home design trends reflect American values - WTOP News Click to toggle navigation menu. Alexandria Arlington Fairfax County Loudoun County Prince William County Stafford County Maryland Click to expand menu.

5. Going beyond aesthetics: 7 home design trends for 2026

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Homeowners are blending comfort, personality, sustainability and connections to the outside world this year. Whether you’re refreshing a room or planning a full-blown makeover, consider these ideas for inspiration that feels both timeless and fresh.

6. Thalian Hall kicks off $25 million renovation project

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The renovation will significantly expand the building’s footprint, doubling both its square footage and capacity. Thalian Hall CEO Shane Fernando said the project will also repurpose historic spaces within the building, like the former Wilmington City Hall.