As we approach the cusp of 2024, the world of interior design is brimming with exciting possibilities and new trends that promise to transform living spaces in both bustling cities like New York and serene retreats like Virginia Beach. Design experts are forecasting a year that celebrates the cozy embrace of nature blended seamlessly with modern aesthetics. Prevailing themes revolve around the harmonious fusion of nature’s gentle embrace with living spaces that captivates the senses and elevates our daily lives.
This Redfin article on interior design trends invites us to the new New Year’s lifestyle where organic and the modern converge, where every corner becomes an inviting sanctuary, and where innovation and tradition can exist in one room.
1. It’s all about feeling cozy
“My prediction for 2024 is natural elements mixed with modern design,” suggests Jason Lai from JL Interiors. “Using Biophilic elements, sustainable materials, and living walls/plants will bring the outdoors in. While mixing modern design it should not feel stark, the new terminology will be cozy.
How do you do that? Mix elements such as wallpaper (Grasscloth/wicker), wood beams, wood elements, linen fabric, bamboo flooring, concrete (if budget allows) or concrete looking tiles with flat panel, modern, cabinet fronts. I’m predicting this trend because 2024 is all
about mixing designs. It’s no longer following any rules, it’s all about what makes you feel good when living in your space.
The challenges with this trend would be moving into a move-in ready home. Most developers don’t hone in on what makes the space feel good, but everything can be saved with the right interior designer that listens to their clients and provides a creative way to implement these trends.”
Courtesy of JL Interiors
2. Out with gray and in with natural, earthy colors
“In the coming year, interior design is embracing a more relaxed and personal approach,” says Homestead Interiors. “After a decade of the reign of gray, we’re welcoming color and earthy tones back into our homes, think natural greens and beige but cleaner than the 2000’s yellow/pink beige palette. Vintage and heirloom pieces are finding new life, seamlessly blended with contemporary styles for a fresh yet nostalgic feel.
The trend leans towards simplicity, as people seek to declutter while injecting more style, all while maintaining a personalized cozy atmosphere. Antiques shops, thrift stores, and online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace are taking a prominent seat at the design table, offering affordable and diverse options for decorating with personality.”
3. What makes you feel at home trends above everything else
“With a focus on mental health and wellness, many of us have realized the benefits of being connected more with nature and creating a sanctuary at home. I hear the word “cozy” more often with my clients,” mentions Melissa Hoffmann Interiors. “Everyone wants a design that helps make their home feel complete, but that is also functional for how they live. Design trends are reflecting that also, as we move towards layering earth tones like creams and tans mixed with natural blues and greens.
If you’re looking around your space, think about layering some of these mediums, such as glass decoratives, a soft blanket on a leather sofa, picture it near a limestone fireplace and wooden side table. Don’t forget to add some plants as well. Comfortable, organic shapes are being seen in décor including light fixtures, and even curved chairs and sofas. This also gives way to subtle arch shapes in mirrors and interior doorways. Mixing some of these rounded elements with geometric shapes like a square coffee table or geometric artwork, can give visual appeal to your space.
Invest in large statement pieces that speak to you, I say the bigger, the better, like a chandelier over your dining table or a large ceramic vase you can use year-round with various flowers or branches. What’s most important is that your space is surrounded by the details you love and that feel like home, which is trending above anything else.”
Courtesy Melissa Hoffmann Interiors
4. Sustainability and technology continues to take shape
“In 2024, I anticipate that interior design will embrace eco-friendliness, driven by heightened environmental awareness,” suggests Dapper Digs by Lucy. “Sustainability takes center stage, mirroring trends seen in other consumer choices. This shift prioritizes recycled materials, energy-efficient design, upcycled and locally sourced furnishings to reduce carbon footprints. A nostalgic nod to the past is set to manifest in the form of retro touches, infusing spaces with timeless charm. Expect a continued appreciation for the authenticity of natural materials and textures, connecting interiors with the soothing embrace of the outdoors. ‘Dopamine decor’ is poised to take root, as homeowners seek environments that foster emotional well-being through clever design choices with mood-enhancing colors and elements.
The pandemic’s influence, with its increased remote work and home-based activities, has significantly reshaped our relationship with our living spaces. Particularly, individuals in smaller accommodations have felt the greatest impact. The demands of working, exercising, and socializing from home have shifted priorities. Even with remote workers beginning to return to traditional workplaces, they still favor flexibility, comfort, and tranquility from their work-from-home spaces.
I anticipate that as we begin to interact more with AI-based technologies (such as smart lighting and AI-driven virtual assistants), our domestic, work, and social environments will require a technology layer to be built into the fabric of our homes. Concealed or aesthetically pleasing smart speakers, routers, and control panels will need to be considered into every design in the future if we are to visually, and therefore emotionally, remove ourselves from ‘The Matrix.’ These innovations offer ultimate convenience, ease, and energy efficiency through simple commands.”
Courtesy of Dapper Digs by Lucy
This post first appeared on Redfin.com. To see the original, click here.