Trends
Mid-Year Design Report: 12 Trends For The Rest Of 2024
Photo by Maison Corbeil
Trends
Mid-Year Design Report: 12 Trends For The Rest Of 2024
The last few years of design have seen certain trends evolve into established defining directions for the entire industry.
Duelling looks—maximalism and minimalism—continue to dominate. We look to their evolution here and also identify emerging trends that reflect our changing tastes.
1. Sanctuary
Serenity and order are of primary importance in our homes. Comfort, beauty and slowing down to deeply appreciate everyday pleasures are the driving forces of this trend. Drawing on nature for textural and colour inspiration is a good way to create this soothing, cocooning effect.
2. Checkerboard
Checkerboard floors are back, whether in classic black and white, or alternative duos like green and cream or terracotta and ivory. If you have the budget, go for oversize natural stones in an entryway, mudroom or kitchen; for less of an outlay, get the look with porcelain tile. Not ready to commit? Opt for a two-tone check rug, bed linens or even a fun tablecloth.
3. The '70s
Photo by Mobilia
We just aren’t yet over our design love affair with the 1970s. This trend continues its massive influence on decor and fashion. Look for round and playful shapes, wavy line patterns, natural rat- tan, coloured acrylics, and bold stripes and colour combos. Fabrics like boiled wool, denim and velvet are hot, as are cult favourites like mushroom lamps and Tam-Tam stools.
4. Oversized Upholstered Furniture
Photo by EQ3
Bigger is actually better. Modular armchairs and sofas that are low to the ground and boast deep and ultra-soft upholstery are the best seats in the house.
5. Circular Design
Photo by Gap Interiors
We are more aware than ever of the impact of our choices on the planet. We donate, recycle and sell furniture on online platforms. Some of us have even committed to only buying secondhand items. You know it’s a big trend when retailers get on board, and it’s encouraging to see companies like IKEA work the philosophy into their offerings. Their Resell It program takes back gently used furniture in order to give it a second life; in return for giving them your previously loved pieces, you get a store credit. Win-win!
6. Rooms With Personality
Photo by Juniper
We are brave and sophisticated enough about design now and are ready to show off our unique personalities at home. That can mean displays of art, objects and even furniture we’ve fashioned ourselves, or it can translate into curated collections we’ve slowly amassed from local artisans, artists and craftspeople. Displaying nostalgic items, using colour courageously, making or collecting artworks – all are ways to express your own idea of beauty.
7. Luxe Bathrooms
Photo by SS Tile & Stone
Bold design moves in bathrooms, along with all the bells and whistles of a spa-like space, are on trend. One way to make a statement is with paint and wallcoverings. Look for beautiful murals, colourful wallpaper and even striking tile on walls. Be sure to dial it back on other elements, so the room doesn’t look overdone.
8. Maximalism
Photo by Gap Interiors
Here’s what’s great about this design moment: on one hand, you have calm, nature-inspired rooms; and on the other, masterful mixes of colour and pattern that dazzle us and bring a sense of joy to our homes. If maximalism is appealing to you, study how established designers combine shape, pattern and colour, as well as unique furnishings and objects. Though maximalism is bold, it’s not chaotic. Think of how an artist uses colour and pattern – the elements of good design apply so that balance and harmony reign. That’s your goal.
9. Warm Minimalism
Photo by JB Home Designs Studio
Minimalism remains a top trend and now we’re seeing its evolution. The look is warm – not sleek or austere. It’s achieved by combining soft colours and textures for a soothing, uncluttered feel. Natural materials are preferred. This aesthetic of restraint may reflect a societal shift toward buying fewer costly new items, for both environmental and economic reasons. It’s about choosing objects with care, and giving a quality piece, such as a custom coffee table, pride of place in an otherwise subdued room.
10. Earth Tones
Photo by iStock
For a totally today feel, warm, earthy neutrals – from the palest taupe, mushroom and ecru to the most intense shades of rust, terracotta and brown – are the go-to colours of choice. Just take a look at this home.
11. Plentiful Patterns
Photo by Ikea
Mixing colourful patterned textiles and wallpapers is an established trend now and was evident at 2023’s Maison & Objet show in Paris. Playful prints – including ikats, tartans, polka dots, big blooms, stripes, geometrics – in fresh hues are everywhere in the shops. Ready to bring the look home? Start by mixing patterns in mostly the same colour family (a sea of blues, for instance), then bring in an accent colour to make both hues sing.
12. Versatile & Functional
Photo by Transformer Table
By 2030, it’s estimated that 60 percent of the world’s population will live in large cities. This means that living in a small space will be a reality for an increasing number of us. Not surprisingly, furniture that is multifunctional and versatile will star in the home of the future. You’ll see features like integrated technology, hidden storage and convertible furnishings. We think the future will be smart!
Recommended
9 Ideas For Your Kitchen Backsplash
Comments