If you’re anything like me, all of this time at home has got me thinking of all the ways I want to change up my décor, says guest writer and stylist Lulu Wilcox.
Just like in fashion, interior trends change year on year. Often we see these trends originate in the world of fashion, and they take about 6-12 months to cross over. Texture, fabrics, colours, patterns and embellishments often walk straight off the catwalk and into your homeware!
Adapting to the latest trends doesn’t have to mean a massive makeover or extreme renovation – or a huge Afterpay order. Think of it like accessorising or adding accent to your home, for example painting a statement wall (something that can be changed easily) or adding in the next season’s hot colour in the form of cushions or a statement armchair instead of a whole new couch.
When it comes to my own home, I like to take these “trends” and put my own spin on them. Never be afraid to show personality in your home and add your own special touch.
Here are my top 20 trends to keep your eye on over the next 12 months.
- Navy tones
We’ve seen this colour pop up a lot in the past year and it’s only going to continue to grow in popularity as we enter 2021. The almost black hue is contemporary and adds an elegant touch to a space.
- Light woods
Move over mahogany – where all about light colour wood this year. And it’s not just about floors either, this trends carries across furniture, decor and walls.
- Floral wallpaper
This is something that’s been around for years, but floral wallpaper is about to get even bigger in 2021. Except loads of pretty patterns on offer at your favourite DIY stores, taking your classic florals and giving them a modern update.
- Non-white kitchens
The stark white kitchen is a trend we’ve seen in magazines and all over social media for years now – but not in 2021. We’re seeing shift away from white with more natural wood counters and cabinets coming in. Concealed kitchen with functional hidden areas and cupboards are also a big trend!
- Colour pop cabinets
Taking it one step further than wood, another trend coming up is colour pop cabinets in the kitchen. Royal shades are always a great option like a deep blue or emerald.
- Natural elements
Lockdown has brought about a new appreciation for a lot of people when it comes to nature. There’s a massive trend picking up bringing more plants and wooden elements into homes because of this. Sustainable furniture and homewares are also making huge steps in recent years. Now more than ever, people are making sure their interior design is eco-friendly and that their homes have less impact on the environment.
- Integrated living spaces
An open floor plan of kitchen, dining and living zones is a new “must” for modern life’s dynamic. Having these rooms blend together allows people to prepare food while socialising.
- Pink tones
Another colour to keep your eye on in 2021 apart from navy is pink. This has and continues to be a popular colour in interior design and brings a modern and fun feel to a space.
- Canopy beds
Nothing beats a grand bed to sleep in! But this next year isn’t about canopy beds draped in heavy fabrics like they are traditionally designed. Modern versions made with acrylic, metal, and sleek upholstered frames are making a comeback.
- Less is more
If you really want a modern house, ask yourself what can be removed or what can be stored away from view. Embrace the minimalist and tidy look for your home. This doesn’t mean less colour – just less clutter!
- Fine line art
This is a trend we’ve seen buzzing around the online space for the past year and it’s only expected to grow in 2021 and enter the mainstream shopping world.
- Olive trees
This is the plant you will want in your home next year! Instead of blooming bright green, these trees are a more sophisticated sage.
- Rattan and wicker furniture
Another trend that won’t be budging anytime soon is wicker furniture. What was once a textile delegated to the back garden or sunroom is now being seen everywhere. This is a hugely inspired by the 70s trend that we’re seeing both in fashion and interiors right now.
- Statement ceilings
Forget about statement walls and direct your paint brush to the ceiling! Adding a bold colour to the roof is something you will see a lot of in the next year.
- Texture, texture and more texture
2020 trends aren’t all about colour either, we are seeing texture increasingly being used to add interest to rooms too. Fluffy rugs, woolen throws, leather chairs and wooden baskets – have fun with all the textiles you can bring into a room.
- Curved sofas
They were popular in the mid-century and now they’re back. Curved sofas and high-back armchairs give an instant glamorous feel to a room.
- Smaller spaces
In 2020 and 2021, the trend is all about small spaces with the less available area to build. Houses and apartments are increasingly more compact, with the need to think about the furniture and smart rooms.
- Intelligent rooms
And the next step up from a smartly designed room is a tech smart room! One touch doors, invisible slides, self-boiling kettles… technology is becoming more and more evident in our homes.
- High contrast decor
If you’ve always wanted to paint your home black, now is the time to give it a whirl (in moderation, of course). While white rooms have been a trend for a long time now, adding in a splash of black is going to be the next big thing. The contrast is so chic and modern!
- Natural lighting
Gone are the day of tiny windows or dark tints. Natural light can completely transform a room. Floor-to-ceiling windows are very popular in the new homes we’re seeing built.
Don’t forget…
When it comes to incorporating these trends into your functional and livable home, there are a few key interior design rules that I always follow.
- Colour – have a palette of hues that are cohesive.
- Style/vision – are you edgy and monochrome or rustic and homely? Have an overarching vision for each room.
- Functionality – there’s no point having a gorgeous living room but you can’t fit the whole family in there for movie night.
- Focal point – if you’re struggling with a room, try choosing one statement item and building the space around that focal point.
- Lighting – never forget the importance of having a room that’s lit well.
- Textures/pattern – basic block colour are an easy styling solution, but don’t be afraid to play with different pattern.
- Flow/proportion – make sure your home flows from one room to another, create a connection between spaces.
- Clutter/chaos – a clean space is a beautiful space! Get good storage and remove the clutter from surfaces.
