It’s always fun to look back at the trends we predicted a year ago and reflect upon whether or not they were accurate. Here’s a quick summary of what we thought would be trending in 2023 (You can read last’s year’s blog here: 2023 Design Trend Predictions)
- Colorful palettes
- Mixed Eras
- Texture
- Sustainable Materials
- Social Spaces (Entertaining-focused areas)
- Maximalism & Minimalism
- Spathrooms (Spa-like bathrooms with luxurious features)
- Elevated pantries and laundry rooms
- Curves and Arches
I would say that all of these seemed to hold true in the designs we saw and we definitely incorporated almost all of these in our 2023 design projects. The only prediction that we did not see much of in our client’s interests was Maximalism. I still feel like most people prefer a cleaner, simpler aesthetic and don’t care much for a cluttered environment. The colorful palettes also tend to be softer colors, and as is true to the Midwest, we are typically afraid of really bold colors. We tend to stick to colors that are more subtle and earthy (blues, greens, and darker neutrals). I’ve seen a lot of articles about red being a hot color this year, especially in fashion. My gut feel is that any reds being used in home design will probably be more muted, earthy tones, such as a terra cotta red or deeper burgundy or brick reds. I do like the idea of infusing some of those rich colors though as it gives a nostalgic, warm contrast to all of the blues and greens.
What do we think will be trending this year?
In addition to a continuation of all of the above-listed trends from 2023 (I do think all of these will still be popular this year), here are a few new trends that I think will be seen more frequently in 2024:
Natural materials on countertops
I’ve been seeing a trend toward more natural materials, such as quartzites, marbles, soapstone and slate. Gorgeous, dramatic veining just cannot be replicated with man-made quartz products, and there is something especially beautiful about a material that was miraculously formed in the earth. We’ve also seen a trend of running the countertop material up for the backsplash, rather than using tile. I personally love this beautiful look!
Traditional Design
Don’t get me wrong – modern design is still as hot as ever, but I am also seeing a big resurgence of traditional design. Classic, timeless elements will never go out of style, and many furniture companies are bringing back a more formal look with rich wood dining tables, upholstered chairs, tufted sofas, curved legs, and gilded details. Rich velvets and textures bring a sense of elegance tied with comfort and warmth. We’re seeing a lot of reproduction oil paintings and antique pieces mixed in with even modern aesthetics.
Statement stone
The old-world, European look is back in fireplaces, exteriors, and various stone accents. Larger scale stones with heavy white grout (an “over-grouted” look) bring a rich, elegant look with a little vintage charm to any home.
Warmer wood tones
The rift-sawn white oak trend is still hot, but we are seeing a lot of warmer, rich tones in wood coming into play. At High Point market, I noticed a lot of warmer wood tones such as black walnut and burlwood in furniture pieces. There is so much beauty in the grains and textures of these woods and it is a nice contrast to the almost “grainless” feel of the riftsawn oak.
Scallops, curves, and arches
Scalloped edges on lampshades and furniture, curved details on furnishings, and arches on mirrors, doorways and windows, all add a softness and touch of charm.
Greens
Gorgeous shades of green, from olive to soft sage, to deep evergreen tones, seem to be stealing the limelight as the universally loved color. Blue is still beloved and probably will be forever, but right now, green is having its moment!
Reds
Since I had mentioned it before, I am going to throw it in here. I’m guessing we will see more red shades in home décor this year, but I am hoping it’s not of the “Fire Engine” variety! Here are some tones that I love and am actually looking forward to seeing more of this year:
Energy efficiency and Smart Home technology
The advancements in technology seem to continue to grow at incredible speed. LED lighting is becoming the standard for most fixtures now and the variety of options gives so much flexibility with levels of warmth and light control. WiFi controlled appliances, Apps to control energy and products remotely, and motorized window treatments are becoming the norm in many households.
Nostalgia, Vintage & Antiques, and Artisan-crafted products
Even though technology and the advent of AI is advancing at lightning speed and making our homes into what we probably imagined back when we were young and watched The Jetsons, there is still a strong love for nostalgia and things that are the opposite of “manufactured”. Special things like Grandma’s cutting boards and aprons, vintage finds from a memorable trip to Paris, or handcrafted tile from a local artisan, all add a unique warmth to a home that makes it meaningful. Our homes should tell a story of who we are and where we came from. The things, memories and people we love and value trump any fancy WiFi-controlled device. I absolutely love this trend and I love that it also seems to be embraced by younger generations! We are figuring out that no matter how fast the world advances and products are created to make our lives more convenient, the things that really matter in life have to do with our emotions and the people we care about. We can all make a difference by supporting our artisans and small businesses, caring about how furniture is manufactured, promoting sustainability, taking care of our earth, and finding new life for old things.
As we are running along with 2024, get ready for a design journey that seamlessly blends innovation, tradition, and a celebration of what truly matters. From captivating aesthetics to functional advancements, this year promises to be a thrilling canvas for creating spaces that not only dazzle the eye but also touch the soul. Cheers to an exciting and trendsetting year ahead!
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XO,
Amy & The Interior Impressions Team
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