As we approach the second anniversary of not-so-new ‘new normal’ pandemic life, rife with COVID-variants, conflict, and uncertainty, it’s no surprise that interior design trends continue to focus on bringing us a sense of inner and emotional peace and stability within our most sacred space… our home.
The over-arching narrative of these design trends, is that we’re creating calming environments that make us feel safe, cosy, welcoming and warm, or we’re cultivating spaces that serve as an outlet for self-expression, personality and creativity.
Our top five design trends for 2022 are…
- Curves
- Brown
- Biophilia
- Grand Millennial
- Quirky Maximalism
- Curves
Arguably the most influential trend that speaks directly to this desire for comfort and cosiness can be seen in the soft curves of furniture and objects. This rounded form, almost as impactful, and as much needed as the literal hugs we’ve missed, is a welcome relief at home. Curved lines and edges give us a sense of refuge and escape from the emotionally-charged chaos, division and anxiety of the outside world.
Arched and chubby shaped furniture in soft, textural materials, mushroom or balloon-shaped lamps, wavy mirrors and cut out shapes, and rounded or spherical ceramics and objects are all champions of this curve trend.
- Fifty Shades of Brown
The all white minimalism of 2021 is on the way out, to make way for its next of kin… brown!
This ‘new neutral’ comes with more than a double-whiskey dose of 70’s inspiration, and favours a subtle but bold experimentation of colour and texture. Leather, terracotta, stone, rattan, jute and rich woods are layered for depth and an inviting warmth, while hues of mustard, burnt orange, rust, mahogany and tobacco give a strong sense of character, nostalgia and spirit.
This earthen, nature-inspired palette of browns also harmonises well with our next trend; biophilia (our propensity towards bringing the outdoors in) with an abundance of greenery and natural light complementing this brown palette.
- Biophilia
Biophilia can be defined as an innate human desire to connect with nature. A biophilic design has been proven not just to support our emotional and psychological wellbeing, but also has a profound and positive impact on our cognitive functioning and physical health!
With this ever growing (pun intended) need to be more connected to nature, we’re seeing a varied selection of house plants emerge, as we graduate from the staples (rubber leaf, ficus and montera) to more daring or obscure plant choices. Sustainability is at the forefront of most of our purchasing and consumption decisions now, which means we’re being more creative with upcycling, repurposing and buying second hand and vintage.
Organic, porous or imperfect (Wabi Sabi) shapes and elements add depth and soul, while materials of stone, marble, travertine, limewash, plaster, terracotta and raw timbers bring a natural aesthetic to our interiors.
- Grand Millennial
Traditional is making a comeback! We’re looking for comfort in timeless classics, craving a sense of nostalgia, when life felt simpler to make sense of.
This modern take on ‘Granny chic’ is the antithesis of the mid-century modern minimalism that’s been centre-stage for many years now. It’s a return to florals, Chinoiserie, houndstooth, jacquard and tapestry styles, fringed detailing, and piped edges. Wallpapers, rich patterns, pedestals, and traditional window treatments are all making re-appearances once more.
We’re combining the ‘good’ China or crystal with everyday pieces, while antiques become the strong sentimental protagonist in a room, telling the stories of old, giving credibility and interest to a space.
- Quirky Maximalism
Quirky maximalism is about bold, bright self-expressionism. It could be a symptom of two years of restrictions on our creative outlets, or reflective of our need to bring an abundance of joy back into our lives. It’s hard not to have a smile on your face when you come across purveyors of this design style.
This ‘more is more’ trend isn’t so much a rejection of the principles of minimalism. Each item still has careful consideration, offering a purposeful curation of pieces that create joy and spark conversation, rather than just being clutter for clutter’s sake. The purpose of this ever-evolving style is to constantly excite and delight us.
Through daring colour combinations, unique artwork and the re-purposing of vintage or upcycled pieces, these spaces take on a personality all of their own. With many influences, from 20’s Art Deco, to 80’s Memphis to futuristic, and anything in between there really are no rules or limits with this style, except those that favour the element of surprise!
