With more and more workers setting up shop at home, consumers looking for home office furniture will find extensive selections to suit a range of tastes and generations, from the most classic traditional to the sleekest 21st century modern.

“Furniture manufacturers recognize that home offices come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they are developing products accordingly,” said Jackie Hirschhaut, vice president at the American Furniture Manufacturers Association (AFMA). “Because the category has become so popular and is growing so rapidly, manufacturers are focusing on home office with abundant new selections.”

Particularly refreshing at the spring International Home Furnishings Market here in April were the new designs targeted to younger consumers, she noted.

“Because Generations X and Y have grown up with technology and the concept of offices at home, they are ideal consumers for home office furnishings,” said Hirschhaut. “A number of manufacturers have responded with fresh new designs targeted specifically to these young consumers. Prices are affordable, styling is sleek and function is paramount.”

Manufacturers still realize, however, that regardless of the high-tech needs of home offices, many consumers still want a classic traditional look. Shoppers will find plenty of traditional selections in their local stores, as well as contemporary and transitional styles.

Exclusive AFMA research shows that while nearly one-third of American households have a home office, many consumers don’t have a separate room to devote to their home office. They are setting up work spaces in rooms such as the family room, bedroom or kitchen and therefore need home office furnishings that will complement their existing decor.

They also want furnishings that will allow them to work and play in comfort and style and that will accommodate fast-changing technology. Home office furniture shoppers will find that most offerings, regardless of price range, sport an abundance of storage options for computers, printers, files, CDs and such, as well as adjustable shelves, wire management systems, and pull-out keyboard and mouse trays.

“Consumers will have fun shopping at their local stores for home office furnishings,” said Hirschhaut. “Never before has there been such an outstanding selection of creative, stylish and highly functional pieces for the home worker, and prices truly cover the gamut, with something for every budget.”

The American Furniture Manufacturers Association is headquartered in High Point, N.C. – the furniture capital of the world – and represents more than 200 leading U.S. furniture manufacturers and 250 suppliers to the industry.