Every year, interior designers propose new trends to refresh our homes. But how can you tell between a passing fad and a style with real staying power?
After all, nobody wants to have to redecorate their entire house every 5 years!
Here’s an honest look at today’s top trends: those destined to become classics… and those that won’t last past 2030.
1. Multipurpose Rooms
A room rarely serves just one purpose nowadays, with telework and flexible lifestyles, as well as smaller houses and condos. It’s a practical trend that we’re seeing everywhere!
Homes today are designed to adapt to real-life, not some cookie-cutter ideal, whether it’s a home office or a guest bed in the living room, a playroom in the dining room, a bedroom for three children, or a laundry room in the hallway.
Why It’s a Lasting Trend?
This trend is here to stay: it’s unlikely that builders will continue to construct larger residences, be it for environmental or pragmatic reasons. People’s needs have changed for good.
2. Natural Materials
Wood, linen, stone (marble, quartz, etc.)—these natural materials are a safe bet when it comes to interior design!
Why It’s a Lasting Trend?
They remain timeless. They offer a warmth and authenticity that synthetic materials just can’t match. They’re also generally sturdier and more durable, so they will look great for a long time.
Moreover, in an increasingly digital world, many people feel the need to reconnect with naturally sourced or reclaimed materials.
3. Neutral Colour Schemes
Fifteen years ago, soft whites reigned supreme; ten years ago, cream; and now, light earthy tones are in vogue. Pale, neutral shades will always have a place in our homes.
Why It’s a Lasting Trend?
They bring a sense of calm, make spaces appear larger, and let you update your decor without having to start from scratch. They provide a solid foundation that easily accommodates seasonal changes and more niche interior design trends.
4. “Slow Decor”
Buy less but buy smarter. Take your time choosing. These are the principles that underpin the “slow decor” movement.
Why It’s a Lasting Trend?
It’s a direct response to overconsumption. People want to surround themselves with objects that have meaning, that last, and that tell a story. What’s more, they feel a sense of pride in the treasures they’ve unearthed at flea markets or on second-hand websites.
5. Cozy Minimalism
While spacious, open rooms remain popular, people now want to include textures, colours, and accessories that give their space some personality.
One could describe this concept as cozy minimalism.
Consider a living room with walls in a soft green, a beige textured sofa, a colourful rug in natural tones, a light wood table, and a few decorative items in bold hues. The whole room made warm and cozy with soft lighting and a plant.
Why It’s a Lasting Trend?
People have had enough of all white, empty, practically chilly rooms. For the past five years or so, a desire has emerged for more colourful, more ornate decor styles. It would be surprising to see a return to minimalist, austere interiors in the near future!
The Trends That Might Feel Dated in a Few Years
As you revamp your home’s decor, you might be tempted to embrace the latest trends. And that’s perfectly fine! However, if you would rather create a timeless look, steer clear of the following fads.
Overly Thematic Decors
A Pinterest-worthy decor: where everything matches, and everything is meticulously arranged. These interiors impress… but often lack character. They quickly go stale because they’re too tied to a specific moment in time.
For example, the mid-century modern and farmhouse styles, herringbone patterns, and barn doors have already become things of the past!
Colour Drenching With Bold Colours
Forest green, rich terracotta, and jet black are all stunning, but these colours can quickly overwhelm a space if applied everywhere. You may tire of them sooner than you anticipate.
Ultra Trendy Shapes (Arches, Rounded Furniture)
They’re all the rage right now, and you see them everywhere! But, just as with any major trend, it eventually suffers from overuse. Designs like these can quickly look tacky if overdone.
Faux Materials
With the resurgence of authenticity, synthetic materials that mimic the appearance of wood, marble, and other textures are now losing their appeal. People are becoming more discerning about what’s “real.”
In short, when it comes to interior design, it’s not the most eye-catching elements that stand the test of time… but those that create a lasting sense of well-being.