Three local design pros predict what decor is set to dominate this year – and reveal styles they’re happy to see the back of
Going Up: Nurturing Nature
Jennifer Chong, interior designer and owner of consultancy service Feioi, thinks we’ll be looking to the environment for inspiration
“I believe nature is going to play a big part in this year’s interiors. We’ve all been spending more time in our homes than ever before – so people are focusing on how our living spaces make us feel, as well as functionality,” explains Jennifer. “Finding a way to connect with nature can help improve mental health, so bringing this into the home is one way to boost wellbeing. Whether incorporating earthy hues into colour schemes, introducing natural materials, or simply adding more plant babies, I expect to see home design in 2022 heavily influenced by our outdoor environment.”
To incorporate the trend into your own interiors, Jennifer recommends rich terracottas, deep greens and vibrant floral tones, if you’re a fan of maximalism. Or, if you prefer something more calm and neutral, explore soft, stony shades with muted pinks and browns. “Play around with introducing additional natural materials to your home, whether in furniture or accessories,” she adds. “Mix up contrasting textures to create layers of interest, so it doesn’t look flat and monotonous. For example, don’t be afraid of combining different types of wood, and rather than displaying pieces that are all the same material, group varied textures together – like a glass vase with a concrete plant pot, or a jute rug with a soft linen throw.
Going Down – Grey’s Had Its Day
“I hope we’re done with the grey-on-grey look. Having said that, trends are fun to follow, but when it comes to your home, don’t worry too much about what’s in or out. You’re the one living in it, so if you love it, that’s all that matters!”
Going Up: Function First
Kate Reed, from the team at local homewares emporium Angela Reed, puts her money on clever, multipurpose spaces
“One of the exciting trends emerging is embracing the multi-functionality of your home – spaces that can strike the balance between work, exercise and relaxation,” says Kate. The emphasis here is on flexibility and practicality, which could mean a home office that doubles up as an exercise studio, or study space with a cinema screen for movie nights. The sky is the limit when you get clever with design choices, she explains.
Many are looking to juxtapose antique with new
In agreement with Jennifer, Kate also sees aesthetic parallels with nature on the cards. That could be through bringing more plants into the home, or blurring the line between inside and out with garden rooms and sheltered, comfy alfresco dining areas. “I am also delighted to see that sustainability continues to trend,” she continues. “Many people are looking to juxtapose vintage or antique furniture with new. Looking for timeless pieces that express the homeowner’s personality is big this year, too!”
Going Down: Less Isn’t More
“It’s pleasing to see that minimalism is on the way out! Sometimes, having too much white and too many clean lines makes a home feel cold and characterless. Introducing personality will immediately elevate the space. Interestingly, open plan is also on the way out. After spending so much time cooped up at home over the last couple of years, we are now more drawn to being able to shut doors and segregate spaces.”
Going Up: Royal Flush
Katie Malik, creative director at KM Interiors, forecasts a lean towards opulent aesthetics
“After two challenging years, expect the trend of positivity to counterbalance the negativity we all experienced,” predicts Katie. “That means embracing bright colours, bold patterns and exaggerated proportions, with a move towards luxury and extravagance. This is referred to as the ‘royalcore’ trend.” Bring a touch of the regal to your home with vibrant colours, lavish fabrics and statement pieces. Metallic, gilded details are in, suggests Katie, who recommends investing in a few luxe cushions or lampshades. “We’ll also continue to see great collaborations where technology meets sustainability, like in the case of Reform Design Lab’s 3D-printed ‘Reform’ chair, which is made out of wood-based biocomposite,” she adds.
Going Down: Style Switch
“In 2022, we’ll see less boho and more mid-century meets luxury. I think the trend of monochromatic interiors is on the way out, too. Instead, look out for colours, patterns and textures, as we are now perceiving spaces from a 360° perspective – how it makes us feel, how it smells and sounds, functions and looks.”
