Design continues to evolve with the needs of society. Today’s trends focus on multifunctional spaces, sustainability, bold patterns and colors, and trendy decor like curved furnishings, mindfulness, and home libraries. While interior design looks different for each person depending on their tastes and aesthetics, these trends can teach us more about ourselves and what we want out of a home, an office, or any space we wish to imagine. Whether that be a multifunctional workspace, a cozy home library, or something big, bold, and beautiful, there’s a design out there for you.
MULTIFUNCTIONAL SPACES
With the surge of people working remotely, multifunctional spaces are fast becoming one of the best interior design trends that’s here to stay. What was once solely the kitchen is now where you have meetings. Or, what used to be the guest room alone has now become a place for virtual learning. The key to making this trend your reality is adapting these spaces to your needs instead of the other way around.
If, for example, you’re working with a living room that’s supposed to accommodate virtual learning, exercise, and relaxation, you can try to separate those spaces. You could add accent rugs under the couch and desk and add a mat for a floor workout. This way, you have a way to visually understand the spaces as distinct while still being part of a cohesive whole. If you’re more interested in blending the different activities into a seamless flow, multifunctional home trends in furniture can be an excellent investment. That could look like a bookshelf with a built-in desk or a murphy bed that doubles as storage. Again, the goal is to make the spaces work better for you and your needs.
SUSTAINABILITY
In the era of thrifting and with a renewed awareness of how we impact the environment, buying and creating sustainable products is one of the best interior design tips to lower your carbon footprint. Brands, both small and large-scale, are looking to source sustainably. For example, one of the leading tile brands, Artistic Tile, has shifted its processes to get 85% of its power needs from solar energy. Additionally, they use recycled rainwater and long-lasting products to continue their dedication to a cleaner world for all.
If you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint on your own, you could try your hand at DIY-ing your way into a more sustainable style and create your own trendy decor. For example, sanding, repainting, and changing the fixtures on that rundown dresser you found on the sidewalk can bring a new spark into a room that needed a change. Or, you could upcycle a piece you already have in the same way. This process of recycling and upcycling has a positive environmental impact and makes the design more affordable and customizable to your aesthetic.
BOLD PATTERNS AND COLORS
The all-white aesthetic is on its way out, making way for a splash of bold patterns and colors. A newer trend in design is encouraging homeowners to embrace eye-catching prints and moody colors, even in tiny homes. One of the best interior design tips relating to this is using the art of layering. Mixing prints and patterns along with various textures can elevate a room and make it a work of art.
We are in the era of maximalism, where more is more. Of course, it’s not for everyone, but this trend often attracts those who like to combine multiple design aesthetics. Whereas some might find maximalism to be a lot of visual noise, others see it as a way to put everything they love on display at once. Color, pattern, and texture can all be included in this fun trend.
CURVED FURNITURE
Soft lines and curved furnishings are replacing sharp, angular furniture. Because many of us are at home more often now since the beginning of the pandemic, we want our spaces to be cozy and welcoming. Circular furniture, arches, and rounded edges create a sense of calm and add movement to boxy rooms.
Some interior design tips include arranging furniture in a circle and incorporating more natural elements to make your space more curvaceous. We often see curved forms in nature, so including materials like stone or wood can contribute to a more cohesive overall design.
MINDFUL SPACES
Mindfulness is a practice that dates back centuries, but it’s become vastly popular in the Western world over the last several years. Mindfulness is the art of maintaining oneself in the moment and paying more attention to all the beauty that surrounds us. So, what does that have to do with today’s best interior design trends?
Our environment can impact our mood. For example, you may feel anxious or stressed if your desk is overly cluttered. Or, perhaps loud colors distract you. Conversely, specific colorways may make you feel calm and relaxed. That means we’ll see more decor that reflects people’s personalities, interests, and hobbies.
HOME LIBRARIES
With many rediscovering their love of reading, people are investing more and more in designing and growing their home libraries. There are debates for days about how to display books, whether to go with built-ins for a seamless aesthetic or mismatched wooden shelving. Having a physical bookshelf or reading nook is a way to carve out dedicated space for something else beyond the laptop, tablet, or phone.
A home library can also be a nod to other trends like multifunctional spaces, as libraries can often double as offices or places to relax. Plus, what better space is there to host a book club if you’re a big reader?
Ultimately, your aesthetic is up to you! You can explore these trends or stick to what you love. That’s what’s so great about interior design – it’s what you make it.
Have you found that you can’t express yourself in your current home and are on the hunt for a new one where you can incorporate these and other interior design tips? If so, reach out to trusted local agent Brandon Carney to see what’s on the market.
