The oft-repeated adage, “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery,” may seem like a nice thing to say but let’s face it: it’s really a sales pitch for thievery.
When it comes to furniture design, buying a knockoff may be less expensive but that doesn’t mean it comes without a price, as one blogger has noted. Not only does the designer lose out on income for his or her intellectual property, but they also face the difficult and costly task of defending a copyright—especially when the rip-off may not be a perfect replica (but close enough to pass).
In fact, there are websites such as Modern Furniture Knockoff and Replica Furniture dedicated to selling counterfeit designer furniture that claim to be “designer inspired” and offer deep discounts to consumers who want high design at a low price. And according to CNBC’s “Treasure Detectives,” furniture is one of the most replicated products of all time.
That’s why for our March issue, we decided to focus our attention on the Craft of Design and celebrate authentic, quality design made at the hands of true artisans.
So, how can you spot a fake from the real thing? You can start by checking with Be Original Americas’ extensive list of popular knockoffs available on the market. Designers should also make a commitment to protecting intellectual property rights by only specifying original furniture designs, rather than saving money by purchasing cheap imitations. Don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to find great deals, including our very own Steals+Splurges column in the magazine, as well as other sites like these identified by HuffPost.
About the Author
Robert Nieminen
Market Content Director
Market Content Director, Architectural Products, BUILDINGS, and interiors+sources
Robert Nieminen is the Market Content Director of three leading B2B publications serving the commercial architecture and design industries: Architectural Products, BUILDINGS, and interiors+sources. With a career rooted in editorial excellence and a passion for storytelling, Robert oversees a diverse content portfolio that spans award-winning feature articles, strategic podcast programming, and digital media initiatives aimed at empowering design professionals, facility managers, and commercial building stakeholders.
He is the host of the I Hear Design podcast and curates the Smart Buildings Technology Report, bringing thought leadership to the forefront of innovation in built environments. Robert leads editorial and creative direction for multiple industry award programs—including the Elev8 Design Awards and Product Innovation Awards—and is a recognized voice in sustainability, smart technology integration, and forward-thinking design.
Robert's work has earned him industry-wide recognition throughout his career, including:
- ASBPE Award (2019, 2018, 2017, 2015)—Best Regularly-Contributed Column; retrofit
- TABPI Award (2017, 2016)—Top 25 Entries, Cover Story; Retail Environments
- WPA Maggie Award (2011, 2010, 2008)—Best Publication, Trade; interiors+sources
- FOLIO: Eddie Gold Award (2022, 2007)—Best Feature Article & Special Section; interiors+sources
- Contributing author of ASID’s 2020 Outlook and State of Interior Design repor, as well as The State of the Interior Design Profession (Fairchild Books, 2010), which earned a place on the International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers’ “50 Must Read, Must Have” book list.