Like concept cars at the auto shows, furniture showrooms try to project possibilities for the future of home design. New stores are much lighter than before, with sunshine pouring in from windows and skylights; fewer walls allow the light to penetrate deeper into the space. Gone is the maze-like sequence of rooms from years ago; spaces are separated by function instead of wallboard. Exposed parts of the structure become decorative. Metal beams and girders, concrete walls and exposed brick faces become strong design elements and add depth and interest.
