The world of interior design is always evolving, with new trends, principles and influences creating an eclectic array of choices for homeowners to consider. Modern homes so often come as a blank canvas, particularly if you’re taking on a new build, which can make decorating a little bit more challenging.
Starting from scratch gives you unlimited options which is often a little overwhelming, so it’s best to consider your space, identify your sense of style and devise a plan to create your dream home interior. For some inspiration, below we’ve outlined some of the most popular décor trends to consider this year and into 2024.
1. Dopamine Dressing
Homes from all eras have used colour in various ways, whether we’re talking about the bold and vivid tones from the 70s and 80s or the neutral, earthy shades of the 1990s and early 2000s. Fast forward to today and we’re seeing the return of more vibrant colours to complement other interior design aspects.
Experts predict that 2024 will bring the dominance of rich, darker shades to people’s homes, including deep greens and blues, as well as powerful greys and blacks. Balancing levels of natural light and colours in a modern home is easier said than done, but finding the sweet spot helps to deliver stunning results.
There are even trends surrounding “dopamine dressing” that are making their way into interior design and décor thinking. The idea is that the clothes and colours you wear can boost your mood. Equally, the colours you surround yourself with at home can help you to relax, unwind, sleep and even be more productive. Expect to see more about this over the coming months and years.
2. Minimalist Design
Trends are ultimately circular and it’s fair to say that minimalism is well and truly back. It was first a feature of architectural and interior design in the 1960s and 70s when basic designs that delivered striking results were created. There are some misconceptions about minimalism as a shoestring-budget way of living, but it’s much more about quality of life.
Minimalism is a lifestyle movement that extends far beyond décor, but in homes, it can manifest in uncluttered spaces, simple practicality, clean lines and neutral colours. The idea is that minimalism decreases overall stimulation and allows you to enjoy the finer things in life that much more intensely. Functionality is also a big factor, with elements of multi-functional design maximising space, value and practicality – we’ll discuss all that a little later on.
A BBC article describes this new form of minimalism as “relaxed minimalism”, which is a good way to put it. By reducing the noise and chaos in your living spaces, you can reduce stress levels and create a home where you can relax from the strains and stresses of the day. More doesn’t always result in more, so perhaps look to decorate and furnish with less if you haven’t tried already.
3. Eco Décor
As the world continues to pivot towards environmental protection, homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to incorporate sustainability into their living spaces.
The trend that first began as a purely conscious effort to reduce environmental impact has now become an incredibly popular design choice to elevate the look and feel of interior spaces. Whether it’s walls made from recycled glass, furniture made from reclaimed wood or the use of natural finishes and materials, eco décor has a lot going for it.
Sustainable design is more than just interiors though, it’s about integrating external and internal elements to drive a lower carbon footprint and improve energy efficiency. Better insulation is rarely seen but plays an incredibly important role in retaining warmth and reducing energy consumption. Similarly, thick curtains, energy-efficient lighting and natural sun traps can all be featured in designs buy play an integral role in pushing sustainable principles.
Don’t forget the power of nature in your home. Biophilic design is gaining traction across the world as the benefits of incorporating greenery and natural elements continue to be shouted about. These include better physical and mental health, but there’s an undeniable aesthetic improvement for your home as well.
4. Multifunctional Design and Adaptability
Long gone are the days of rooms having a singular, defined purpose. Spaces in the home are now adaptable and can serve various needs at once or throughout the day.
This trend encompasses multi-functional units, furniture, appliances and decorative features, and the efficient use of space to combine these elements into a flexible living space that finds the perfect balance between practicality and aesthetics.
One of the great benefits is that small and seemingly limited spaces can be designed in a way that provides households with the functionality of a much larger room. For example, coffee tables that transform into dining tables or cabinets that fold down into a writing desk save precious floor space in tight quarters and allow homeowners to enjoy a range of activities with less furniture.
Multifunctional design raises a hand for sustainability as well, which is another factor driving its popularity. Decreasing the need for multiple items of furniture and units reduces the demand for such products, alleviating pressure on already finite resources. How could you incorporate multifunctional design?
Anything you like the sound of?
These home décor trends are some of the most exciting in the industry today and you can incorporate any or all of them into your designs if you so wish. Many would argue it’s a good time for interiors at the minute, with people gravitating towards a sensible balance between minimalism and maximalism, sustainability, charming colours and adaptable design. You can pick and choose the aspects that speak to you most.
Efforts to reduce environmental impacts are certainly worthwhile and any ways you can contribute to this with your own home décor and design is thoroughly recommended. Not only can you help preserve and protect the planet, but it gives each feature of your home a unique and meaningful story.
Which trends have inspired you?
Read More: Bathroom Trends for all Shapes and Sizes
Jen is an interiors writer and blogger and has an insatiable love of home style and decor
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