Navigating Tariffs with Style: Why a Curated, American-Made Home Has Never Been More Chic

With the recent news of new tariffs on imported goods—especially those impacting home furnishings and décor—it’s only natural for clients to feel concerned about pricing, timelines, and availability. But for those of us who have long championed quality, craftsmanship, and a distinctly American point of view in design, this moment presents an opportunity rather than an obstacle.

Hamptons Home feauturing Apparatus Studio Lighting, Mark Albrecht Dining Chairs.

Richard Phibbs photography.

American-Made, Always in Style

Many of my go-to vendors—the brands I trust to deliver excellence and enduring style—are proudly made in the USA. These companies have always been at the forefront of luxury home design, and in today’s evolving marketplace, their value has never been more apparent.

Some favorites from my roster include:

• Christopher Peacock Kitchens – Iconic bespoke cabinetry, handcrafted in the U.S. with an unmatched level of detail and elegance.

• Apparatus Studio – New York-based and utterly artful, their lighting collections elevate interiors into immersive experiences.

• The Shade Store – Custom window treatments made in the U.S., with impeccable service and lead times.

• Schumacher & Kravet – Both heritage brands in textiles and wallcoverings, blending tradition and innovation from domestic mills and workrooms.

• McGuire Furniture – Timeless California craftsmanship with a focus on organic materials.

• Hickory Chair, Vanguard, Baker, and Highland House – North Carolina-based icons of benchmade, heirloom-quality furniture.

• Brown Jordan, JANUS et Cie, and Summer Classics – Leading the luxury outdoor category, these brands offer durability with refined aesthetics.

  
  

Sourcing from these American makers doesn’t just sidestep potential tariff delays—it ensures we’re supporting domestic artisans and craftspeople who are preserving time-honored techniques.

Recent Tariff Developments (as of April 8, 2025):

- Baseline Tariff Implementation: Effective April 5, 2025, a universal 10% tariff has been imposed on all imported goods entering the United States from outside North America. This tariff is applied in addition to existing duty rates.

- Country-Specific Tariffs: Starting April 9, 2025, higher "reciprocal" tariffs have been enforced on imports from specific countries.

- China: An additional 34% tariff, totaling a 44% tariff when combined with the baseline.

- Vietnam: Facing a 46% total tariff rate.

- European Union: Subject to a 20% tariff.

The Rise of the Curated Home

In parallel, there’s a refreshing shift away from mass-produced, fast-furniture imports—what I often call the “fast fashion” of interiors. With global supply chains under pressure, more clients are embracing the value of timeless design. That includes antique and vintage sourcing, from 18th-century French bergères to iconic mid-century modern pieces. Not only do these items add soul to a space—they're sustainable, storied, and irreplaceable.

The curated home is always the most interesting one. It speaks to the unique lifestyle, travels, and aesthetic of its owner. And that’s what we aim to create for every project: spaces that feel collected, not cataloged.

Palm Beach Home featuring Schumacher Wallpaper, Vintage Lucite Chair, Kravet Custom Bed

A Thoughtful Approach to Investment

If you're considering a home refresh for summer—whether it's a new outdoor living setup, updated textiles, or a full-room reimagining—now is the time to begin.

Many of our trusted trade vendors have already announced price increases of up to 4%, and supply chain lead times are shifting. To stay ahead, I recommend placing key orders by May 1st to ensure optimal availability, pricing, and delivery before the season hits full swing.

Fortunately, many of the brands I regularly source from are based in the USA, helping us navigate these changes with confidence and clarity. From custom upholstery to luxury outdoor furnishings, we’re well-positioned to move quickly with the right partners in place.

Download my complimentary Investment Guide to begin planning, visit www.galitzincreative.com