We pin down 4 standout trends in interiors today that will continue to dominate homes in the coming year.
- Standout shades
After taking the lead for many seasons, soft tints are quickly being displaced by their brighter and bolder counterparts. As vivid colours are intense, they possess the prowess to dramatically transform a room’s look and mood. This captivating quality makes them great statement-makers, which is why homeowners are now shying away from this colour scheme and are instead using high-intensity hues to create impact in their pad. Try of-the-moment tones such as raspberry pink, peacock blue and rich berry-infused purples. Not only are these tones exciting, but they also imbue an opulent aura into your interior.
Image credit: Go Modern Furniture
Standout shades are usually expressed as pops of colours. Try a single solid punch on an accent wall, or incorporate smaller winks of neon through soft furnishings like throw cushions and rugs or through art and accessories. Those who prefer to take it down a notch can opt for bright pastels – this way, the intensity is softened without completely taking away the vivacity of these hues.
Image credit: Studio FortyFour
- Yesterday once more
Perhaps it’s that inimitable air of nostalgia or the yearning for the simpler life and slower pace of the past. Somehow, the old-world style never seems to get old. This look takes reference from different places and periods in time. But this time around, trends are pointing towards the revival of retro glam. We’re stepping away from the Renaissance and moving closer to Mad Men era where the style is characterful yet polished and perfectly put together. No over-the-top trimmings or gaudy accessories please; this bygone inspired design theme stays timeless with a largely neutral setting and experiments with mixed finishes, forms and textures to create unexpectedly fresh juxtapositions.
Image credit: UPSTAIRS_
Metallic as a design element in interior decorating has always been a hit. Shiny metals such as rose gold had its golden moment, but finishes with a brushed or matte appearance like brass and copper are fast making a comeback. Plus, they appear right at home in vintage styled dwellings.
Image credit: DelightFULL
- The new neutrals
Neutrals are a friendly lot. They get along with any hue and do not compete for attention. Due to their easygoing nature, grey, beige and cream are particularly well-loved – making them the go-to hues for most homeowners. However, sunnier shades of yellow and orange are starting to win the affection of many. And it’s of small wonder that they’re gaining such popularity. Citrus inspired shades have a knack for bringing cheer and energy into just any interior. What’s more, they help to optically enlarge a space. This makes them great for cramped rooms and areas that lack natural or sufficient light such as hallways, walk-in wardrobes and bathrooms.
Image credit: Moroso
If lemon yellow is too bold for your taste, consider a muted mustard which boasts an earthy vibe that also complements natural wood furniture. It goes famously well with grey accents as well. Paler yellows like buttercream, on the other hand, suit fair Scandinavian homes. Likewise, find inspiration from other orange hues with sienna, terracotta, rust and earthy tones. As they veer slightly into brown terrain, they possess a warmth that makes an interior feel inviting. Lighter tints such as peach have a tinge of pink that will suit children or powder rooms.
Image credit: Dulux
- The forest home
Understated, atmospheric and definitely not as flashy as the jungalow, the forest home is one that’s filled with lush, energising greens. This element presents itself in the form of either actual or artificial foliage, or the colour of your furniture, furnishings and accessories of choice. These rich shades of green appear striking next to dark wood furniture – and incidentally, the current trend in furniture design veers towards the dark side.
Image credit: The Monocot Studio
Nature is the hero here – so apart from botanicals, bring in a mix of natural materials that feels handmade and boasts tactile quality like rattan, wicker and timeworn wood. Together, the elements create a sanctuary that feels wonderfully warm and inviting – allowing its owners to momentarily escape from life’s relentless pace.
Image credit: Dulux
This was adapted from an article originally written by Fidz Azmin published in the September 2018 issue of SquareRooms
