beautiful monochromatic bedroom from The Spruce
We're already into February and as fashion, design trends are sometimes forecast months in advance. I've spent the last 35 years working as an interior designer and in that time, I've seen lots of trends come and go; some I love and some, well not so much.
It's sometimes hard to think what your style is, especially if you like lots of different looks and styles. A good tip if thats you is to do yourself an electronic or scrapbook moodboard. Pull out all the images of styles you like together, so if you're undertaking a kitchen project or new bathroom,. pick out lots of images you're drawn to.
Subconsciously, we tend to go for a similar style but can only see this when all the images are laid out together and not in isolation. Is there a recurring theme, such as an egg shape bath or panelling? Go with the over-riding commonality, that will be the style you really like.
So what's in and out for 2024? Here are the styles the interiors and fashion industry are predicting for this year...
01 Quiet Luxury
image: travis mark
Quiet luxury is as it's name suggest, not in your face bling but paired down interiors using a muted colour palette and sometimes, symmetrical layouts giving an air of sophistication and elegance. As seen in the likes of HBO's Succession, in the homes of billionaire Logan Roy and his power hungry clan.
image: getty images
If you want to elevate your interiors, go for a muted moodboard and natural fabrics such as linens and raw silks. Keep your colours natural and add wood flooring and large area rugs for warmth. A few accessories such as oversized paintings and large cushions in a contracting colour and fabric should do the trick!
02 Monochromatic Schemes
image: studio speck
Using a single colour scheme (monochromatic) is one of the ways you can achieve a long lasting scheme. Monochromatic does not mean black and white in interior design, it means using different tones and tints of one colour to add depth and interest. Adding panelling to rooms will also add texture to a monochromatic room.
While grey, white and stone colours are always popular as monochromatic schemes, rooms can also take colourful schemes.
Monochromatic schemes can also be the most restful and personally, I think they will always be around.
image: bjorn wallander
03 Pantries are making a comeback!
image: Herringbone Kitchens
Well, thank goodness! I do love a nice pantry! It's just a shame I have no room for one. In my next home though...my moodboard is already completed.
image: Purfrost
Before we had fridges, the pantry was a cold, hard and functional room where milk and anything perishable would be stored. Now it can be a luxury addition to a kitchen project and sometimes another kitchen in itself! It's a room where design styles, such as bold wallpaper or colour schemes can be experimented with as the pantry is often out of sight. If it's gorgeous like these examples though, you may just want to show it off!
It was seen that around 28 per cent of people would be more likely to purchase a property if it had a pantry, and 14 per cent of people find a pantry more appealing than a utility within a home.
image: Peter Humphrey/Paul Craig
04 Dark wood panelling
image: Welch Forsman Associates
Rich and traditional, dark wood panelling is making a comeback. If you are looking to add character to your home or period features, this could be a great addition to make. If this look is too traditional for you, make it your own, measure and draw out your own panel size and customise it to what you like. Get a local carpenter to help you achieve the finish you need.
image: Littleedekonings
05 One-off pieces
image: Light Trend Chandelier
If you want a unique home, one off pieces area the easiest way to achieve a look nobody else has. Lighting is one of the easiest ways to do this although you have to go high-end to get something nobody else has or use artisan makers in your area. Bespoke makers can work with you on your project and work with interior designers, coming up with the ideal item to complete a look.
image: Homessociety
Look to Europe for unusual home accessories or go antiquing for 'one off' finds.
So what's out I hear you cry!
Well, here are a few of the looks that have past their sell-by date, according to industry insiders.
06 Ivory Boucle
image: pinterest
Yep, it's had it's day, which is a shame as I quite liked it, being a cat owner, it can hide a multitude of sins, or cat scratches! I guess the same might go for children!
07 Insta interiors
Now this one is subjective, as is all interior design. but Insta copied interiors and temporary fixes (such as fablon) are, according to Vogue Magazine, most definitely out! Instead people are heading for unique homes and more substantial furniture pieces. More authenticity all round.
08 Disposable furniture
image: X O My Home
Anything with. a limited shelf life is making way for heirloom pieces and sturdy furniture. So is IKEA limited? In my opinion IKEA will always have a place in our hearts, people love an IKEA hack, making mass produced furniture unique. Great for when you want a custom piece but don't have the budget. Look also to facebook marketplace, in good areas, for lucky finds!
09 Minimalism
image: Gus Wüstemann Architects
Never having been a fan of minimalist design, for me, this is bordering on Brutalist Style, this is not a sad day. However, it takes enormous attention to detail to create a truly minimalist scheme so I can appreciate the honesty in this design.
10 Industrial Style
Maybe industrial design trends have had their day, I'm reading lots of articles and opinion pieces that people are looking for something a bit cosier in 2024. After all we've been through, like a pandemic, this is understandable.
Just remember, interior design opinions are just that, someone else's idea of beauty and function., In our homes, the place we can truly be ourselves, our design choices should reflect this. Have what you love, even if that's a crazy, green, iguana table! Have in your home what makes you smile or makes you feel all warm and fuzzy, as above all, your home is exactly that...yours!