When it comes to interior design and decor trends, we are always on the lookout for the next hot new thing, but although décor isn’t as fickle as fashion, they do change regularly and they also draw on the past for inspiration. In fact, very few trends are actually new
“For the most part, trends are cyclical and whether they return in 20 or even 100 years, the chances are that most trends will resurface in some form at some point. it seems that even the most outrageous ones find a way of coming back in vogue,” says Yael Geffen, CEO of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty.
“Popular trends come and go - and come back around again - but there are a number of décor trends that most people assume have been relegated to historical times, a good few we never, ever want to see again and some that we didn’t expect to see again in our lifetimes.
“The trends below are classic examples of styles and elements that most people didn’t expect to again any time soon – and which actually work surprisingly well when implemented with a modern twist.”
Green Kitchens
Many of us still shudder when we remember our grandparent’s avocado-coloured kitchens from back in the day, so the fact that sage green kitchens are fast becoming one of the biggest kitchen trends for 2021 is enough to give anyone pause for thought.
However, don’t dismiss it out of hand. Although the two shades aren’t that different, sage is a green that actually works. Whether its paint, cabinetry or tiles, the hue is popping up everywhere, adding warmth, depth and a touch of drama to the heart of the home.
Amazing Arches
Arches are traditionally synonymous with historical grandeur, but in contemporary decor the arch is a very hot design trend right now. From doorways and windows to fireplaces, mirrors and even headboards, the curve is softening modern lines world-over.
A simple, yet graceful art form, arches can significantly elevate a room’s architectural impact and allow for flow when you want to keep spaces separate but not closed off.
Decorative Joinery
Another décor trend from the annuls of history, decorative joinery is making quite a comeback. In terms of materials, decorative trends show wood as the main material in décor and, whether it be ornate and flamboyantly decorative or elegantly intricate like Chinese joinery, decorative joinery will add a subtle layer of interest to your décor.
The re-emergence of wallpaper
Traditional wallpaper from back in the day was often, admittedly, the stuff of nightmares, but the new designs are a far cry from what used to be on granny’s walls. In fact, some designs are so beautiful that they are used as a replacement for paintings and other works of art to adorn a room.
Removable wallpaper is also trending right now as it allows you to update a room more regularly at little cost.
Grandmillennial Style
Whilst we are all know that trends often do make a comeback, I’m fairly sure that one design aesthetic no one ever expected to come back in style was their grandmother's living room.
However, with a Millennial twist to the traditional look, the result is much less stuffy and formal than the rooms you might remember from childhood.
The updated style retains the old-school design trends like skirted tables, patterned upholstery, floral wallpaper and richly stained wood furniture but, by mixing in several modern elements, the result is warmly nostalgic and comfortable yet not at all kitsch.
Cottagecore
In a similar vein to Grandmillenial, Cottagecore harks back to yesteryear but with the focus on country-inspired ideals such as rustic finishes, traditional patterns and classic craftsmanship.
Influenced by classically-styled, interiors, a return to domestic crafts and a new found love for staying at home and cocooning, it’s all about creating a cosy and comfortable haven for your family.
To achieve the look and feel, layer up busy patterns like florals, opt for rich colours to complement a neutral base palette and focus on your home’s traditional details. And yes, wallpaper is also very much a part of this trend.
Wellness at home
Being pampered at a spa has always been seen as one of life’s indulgent treats and the perfect way to relax and de-stress. However, since the advent of Covid-19, many people feel that level of pampering might just be a little close for comfort and we are seeing more and more people installing spa features into their bathrooms at home.
You don’t have to go to great expense to add a little luxury to your bathroom and you don’t have to do it all at once. Add a steam function to a shower area or upgrade your shower head to one with multiple settings. Spring for fluffy new towels, incorporate houseplants and flowers into your bathroom to bring life into the room and add calming scents (essential oils, scented soap, and lotions, scented candles).
“When it comes to interior design, most trends have a fleeting shelf life, only lasting a season or two before being replaced by the next hot new fad,” says Geffen, adding that it can be costly, time consuming and even disruptive to update your décor every time a new look takes your fancy.
“The trick is to know when less is more and to incorporate timeless elements into the décor to create a space that is current without needing to be completely redone every couple of years but that also only requires certain items to be changed as and when they go out of style or you just feel like a change.”
