Adopting the latest looks can sometimes seem a bit tricky. Not so with these 10 design trends. Let us show you how to integrate these stylish and accessible trends into your home, to help give it a little lift.


1 Add aquamarine
The sunny mix of blue and green that makes up this oceanic hue (also known as turquoise) will inject cheer and energy into any room. Get a small but vibrant splash of this jewel-tone with aquamarine mercury glass votive candle holders. $26 US for a set of 4, Pottery Barn.

2 Mix n match
Pair one-of-a-kind pieces and vintage finds with recognizable designer and big box store items to create a truly unique and personal space. Accent pieces and art, like this limited edition handpainted washed cotton canvas from India, are the perfect pieces to add interest and turn a boring space into a beautiful one. $129 US, CB2.


3 Go green
Being eco-friendly has gone from niche to norm and you should get in on the act when adopting the latest design trends. Parisian brasserie chic gets the green treatment with these recycled metal bistro chairs, perfect for indoor and outdoor seating. $169 US, vivaterra.com.

4 Sparkle & shine
Design trends for 2010 demand that you be bold. Dramatic decor with an eye-catching sheen and metallic finish are in. Set a glamorous and striking table with these sparkling gold table linens made using gold coloured glass beads. $87.80 for a set of 4, zgallerie.com. 

5 Get graphic
Get creative with your walls by using graphic wallpaper or peel-and-stick decals. This is a simple way to add interest and charm to a room. It can even double as art if you have a large empty area to cover. Wall decals are becoming especially popular as they, unlike many trends, are easy to apply and remove. $36 US for a set of 50, byrdiegraphics on etsy.com.


6 Try texture
Tactile, texturized design adds interest to a room. Natural fibres such as woven reeds and woods and knitted or crocheted furniture and accessories will stand out in a sleek, modern space. This Norwegian forest pendant lamp by Cathrine Kullberg Lighting is decorated with a fascinatingly fringed woodland motif, delicately cut into thin birch veneer using lasers. $750 US, huset.com.
7 Colourful cabinetry
Liven up the kitchen using colour. Paint your cabinets a bold shade to give the kitchen a little cheer. If painting all of your cabinets is a little too much of a commitment, then try just adding a new hue to the cabinetry on your kitchen island. When renovating, consider colourful cabinetry instead of the same old dark, stained wood or stainless steel. Starting at $159, Ikea.


8 Think vintage
Furniture and accessories that have been aged to perfection, such as vintage finds and antiques, add variation and charm. The timeworn character that comes from years of existence is a nice nostalgic touch, especially in industrial spaces or to create a country or cottage vibe. Repurpose vintage wooden soda crates as serving trays or storage solutions. $24 US, Pottery Barn.
9 Seamless technology
Incorporating technological devices seamlessly into interiors is a necessity if you want a well-decorated, clutter-free home. Media storage units made from exotic woods or with lacquered white, high gloss black or custom coloured finishes, make displaying your home electronics chic and easy. $700-$800 US, roomandboard.com.
10 Global flavour
Furniture and accessories with international flair can help to personalize a space and create an air of exoticism. Items found while on vacation or with ethnic influences, like this latticed Moroccan-inspired headboard, add texture and colour. $330-$450 US, West Elm.