Unpopular Opinion: Can We Please Say Goodbye to Memphis Design Already?

In 2024, the home design landscape is evolving, with several previously popular trends now considered outdated. Designers across the West Coast have highlighted specific styles and elements that homeowners should move away from to ensure their interiors remain fresh and contemporary. One prominent trend that has reached its saturation point is the modern farmhouse aesthetic. Characterized by black trim and white paint, this style has become ubiquitous, leading to what designers term “fatigue.” The emphasis is shifting towards honoring the existing architectural style of a home rather than imposing a generic modern farmhouse look. This signals a move towards more individualized and context-sensitive design choices. Another trend seeing a decline is the widespread use of heavily veined marble and zellige tiles. While these materials have been popular for their luxurious and artisanal qualities, designers anticipate a waning enthusiasm for heavily veined marble, although it may not disappear entirely. Zellige tiles, despite their charm, are also believed to be reaching a tipping point due due to their prolonged popularity, suggesting a market ready for new textures and finishes. The concept of "vanilla design"—large, bland, white spaces—is also on its way out. The design community is advocating for spaces with distinct personalities, incorporating vibrant stripes, checkerboard patterns, and bold colors. This extends to kitchen cabinetry, with white cabinets giving way to lacquered options in soft grays, greens, and blues, often paired with medium and dark wood tones and sophisticated stone countertops. The practice of using accent tiles with borders above stoves is also identified as dated, with designers recommending its removal to update kitchen aesthetics. Furthermore, an extreme form of minimalism, characterized by overly clean lines and sparse decor, is losing its appeal. The shift is towards a more maximalist approach, embracing bold patterns, vibrant colors, and curated collections that reflect personal style. This move away from bare minimalism also includes a reintroduction of decorative architectural features. After a period where minimalist moldings were common, 2024 will see a resurgence of wainscoting, intricate trim molds, detailed baseboards, and ornate crown molding. Plain ceilings are being replaced by statement ceilings, whether coffered, wallpapered, or otherwise embellished. Painted shelves, while potentially beautiful, are becoming too common and are also noted for their functional drawbacks, as paint can scrape easily. The preference is now for wood shelves and casework with warm stains, highlighting the natural beauty and resilience of wood. The color gray, despite its recent popularity, is also on its way out, with a Houzz study noting its decline in bathroom trends. Designers suggest that people are seeking more depth and color in their living spaces, moving beyond monochromatic gray palettes. Generic, mass-produced furniture is also becoming less influential, as clients increasingly prefer personalized, custom-made pieces and artisanal craftsmanship that express their individuality. Finally, sliding barn doors are deemed impractical, especially for private spaces like bathrooms and bedrooms due to their lack of privacy and sound insulation. Conventional or traditional pocket doors are suggested as more functional and aesthetically pleasing alternatives. Even perfectly-preserved mid-century kitchens are starting to look less chic and more like time capsules, indicating a desire to update classic styles with fresher interpretations of clean lines and organic materials rather than strict adherence to historical replication. #OutdatedDesignTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ModernFarmhouse #Minimalism #ColorTrends #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign

The field of interior design is dynamic and ever-evolving, with what is considered a fundamental guideline one year potentially becoming an outdated rule the next. As of 2025, a shift is observed away from uniformity and perfection towards an appreciation for individuality, character, and spaces that narrate a story. Interior designers are increasingly advocating for breaking away from rigid, traditional interior design rules to create more personalized and authentic living environments. One significant outdated rule to reconsider is the emphasis on strict symmetry. While symmetry can create a sense of formality, asymmetry introduces movement, charm, and a relaxed, natural energy into a room. This principle extends to the idea that all elements in a space must match. Modern design encourages mixing styles, eras, and finishes to achieve a layered and lived-in aesthetic. Approaches like pattern sprinkling, combining different metal finishes such as wood with chrome, and utilizing small-scale artwork instead of conventional gallery walls are gaining traction, challenging the notion of perfectly coordinated interiors. For instance, mismatched table lamps on bedside tables can offer balance while reducing formality. Another fading design convention is the belief that a single hardware finish must be maintained throughout a space, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Historically, matching hardware was the norm, with brass often being the preferred metallic finish. However, contemporary design champions the mixing of finishes. Pairing polished nickel or unlacquered brass with oil-rubbed bronze is now encouraged to add depth, contrast, and character. There's also a growing preference for hardware that develops a patina over time, moving away from overly polished, fingerprint-proof surfaces. Unlacquered and 'living' finishes that naturally show wear and watermarks are favored for their ability to bring warmth, history, and a timeless quality to a space. Furthermore, the perception that wallpaper is the sole alternative to painted walls is also becoming obsolete. While wallpaper trends are becoming more creative, incorporating murals, panels, and even ceiling applications, there's an increasing exploration of other textured wall finishes. Materials like Roman clay, plaster reliefs, and limewash offer a compelling middle ground, providing the simplicity of a single color with added depth, movement, and character that flat paint often lacks. Decorative elements such as the bas-relief trend are being utilized to subtly enhance walls, adding personality while maintaining cohesion and timelessness. Lastly, the universal preference for open-plan layouts is being re-evaluated. Post-pandemic insights have highlighted the increased need for privacy and visual separation within homes. While a complete return to closed-off rooms is not necessarily advocated, the approach to open-plan living is being refined. The current trend involves creating well-defined areas within an open layout through strategic furniture arrangement, the use of rugs, archways, or partial walls to achieve a balanced sense of separation. Even paint colors can be used to zone different functional areas within a large open space, such as distinguishing kitchen, dining, and living room zones. This nuanced approach ensures that homes remain adaptable and comfortable, reflecting personal needs rather than adhering to rigid design doctrines. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTrends2025 #AsymmetricalDesign #MixedMetals #TexturedWalls #OpenPlanLiving #PersonalizedInteriors #ColorfulCountertops

The author addresses the widespread disdain for overhead lighting among interior designers and the general public, a sentiment popularized by a viral tweet at the beginning of 2023. While acknowledging common complaints such as the creation of harsh shadows, unflattering illumination that highlights wrinkles, excessive brightness, and the tendency for light to be concentrated in one spot rather than diffused, the author respectfully counters these criticisms by advocating for the practical benefits and potential aesthetic contributions of overhead lighting. The discussion begins by recalling an interview with designer Jenna Lyons, who expressed a strong aversion to overhead lighting in her home, citing its unflattering effects, though she admitted to using it in a closet for practicality, only to regret it. This highlights the prevailing negative perception within the design community. The author shares a personal history with overhead lighting, tracing back to childhood experiences in a subterranean children's library, her parents' split-level home with ceiling fan lights, and 90s school environments with fluorescent fixtures. These early positive associations shaped a different perspective. A key argument for overhead lighting's utility is its necessity for proper visibility in various activities, including reading, studying, cooking, and cleaning. The author illustrates this with an anecdote about needing it for puzzle assembly and mentions a set designer friend, typically an overhead-lighting detractor, who concedes its usefulness for finding items. Furthermore, for renters, overhead lighting offers a convenient, space-saving solution, eliminating the need for additional lamps, cords, or outlets, and can be activated with a single switch—an important consideration for accessibility (ADA requirements) in public spaces. To clarify the debate, the author distinguishes between different types of overhead lighting. The primary targets of criticism are identified as recessed lighting, which creates a spotlight effect, and "boob lights," often found in rentals, which lack style and brightness control. The author agrees with the general dislike for unflattering, arctic white fluorescent ceiling lights due to their potential to cause migraines and eye strain. However, the author argues that not all overhead lighting falls into these categories, pointing to chandeliers, pendant lamps, and task lighting as potentially appealing options. The consensus among designers, as revealed in a panel discussion hosted by the author, is that overhead lighting can be acceptable if used with a dimmer. This simple hardware store purchase, costing around $35, allows users to adjust the light intensity for various moods and tasks, from a cozy glow to bright illumination for cleaning. Additional quick fixes to improve the quality of overhead lighting include switching from cool to warm-toned LED bulbs, with Long Island–based designer Danielle Chiprut suggesting 2,700K for soft, flattering light. The author also emphasizes that a significant portion of the population does not inherently dislike overhead lighting. Furniture designer Robby Simon, for instance, believes people simply don't know how to "elevate" it and expresses personal reasons for preferring illuminated ceilings. Simon suggests replacing standard fixtures with statement pieces like fringed lamps or chandeliers, viewing them as opportunities to enhance architectural features or add a decorative element, akin to an "earring for your room." Even renters, the author notes, can often persuade landlords to upgrade unappealing overhead fixtures. The article concludes by listing several appealing overhead lighting options, including specific models from Schoolhouse, Mitzi, and Lulu and Georgia, reinforcing the idea that well-chosen overhead lighting can be both functional and stylish. #OverheadLighting #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LightingDesign #DesignDebate #RentalLiving #Dimmers #DesignerTips

The article discusses four outdated window treatments that interior designers recommend avoiding in 2025, emphasizing that windows, often overlooked, are crucial elements that can significantly enhance or detract from a room's aesthetic. Alison Downey of DOWNEY interiors highlights that windows are a "vertical canvas" capable of framing views, adding grandeur, texture, and complementing architecture, and that homeowners are increasingly recognizing their potential to bring character and warmth. The first outdated trend identified is the "no-treatment" approach, where windows are left entirely bare. Designers argue that this neglects a vital design opportunity and can lead to a dull space. Instead, Alison Downey advocates for layered drapery, which combines texture, form, and function to create subtle drama. She suggests using light materials like linen for ease and recommends combining different window treatment styles, such as a textured Roman shade paired with an outside-mount ripplefold sheer drape installed above the window frame on a beautiful track, to add height, depth, and visual richness. Secondly, roller shades are deemed passé for residential projects. Coco Greenblum, a Los Angeles-based interior designer, notes their commercial and cold feel, primarily due to material limitations imposed by their mechanism. While roller shades serve a practical purpose, they lack the warmth and texture desired in a home setting. Coco suggests relaxed Roman shades as a superior alternative, as they offer a balanced aesthetic that is neither too traditional nor too contemporary, while introducing a layer of softness that complements various interior styles. Eyelet, or grommet, curtains are the third type of window treatment to avoid. Interior designer Anna Kroesser of Kroesser + Strat Design states that grommets are distracting and detract from an elevated feel. Although accessible and often ready-made at affordable prices, Anna advises against choosing them solely for their convenience, given the multitude of other options available in 2025 that do not require custom fabrication. She recommends back tab curtains for a more custom appearance without the high cost, or fabric Roman shades for their functionality and textural contribution without overwhelming the space. Finally, matching cornice boards, or pelmets, are considered outdated. Yena Jung of By Yena Designs expresses her weariness of cornice boards that perfectly match curtain fabrics, finding them contrived and detrimental to the intricate trim around windows. She suggests that while some modern pelmet ideas can work, it's generally better to opt for floor-to-ceiling draping or inset treatments that complement the room's overall design. Jung also points out that having all window treatments match is a dated concept. Instead, she recommends combining inset Roman shades with floor-to-ceiling drapery in a complementary style to create a cohesive and finished look, where drapes provide drama and Roman shades offer comfort and welcome. The article concludes by stressing that neglecting windows is a missed opportunity and that careful selection of color and material, while avoiding outdated curtain colors, is essential for a well-designed space. #WindowTreatments #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CurtainTrends #RomanShades #LayeredDrapery #DesignAdvice #HomeStyling #OutdatedTrends

The article discusses the resurgence of closed-concept home layouts, a shift from the popular open-concept designs. Interior designers are embracing this return, noting that open-concept spaces have lost some of their appeal with clients. The move towards closed-concept layouts is driven by a desire for more designated spaces with specific purposes, allowing for greater personalization, coziness, and practicality within the home. This trend is also observed in other areas of home design, such as the comeback of traditional kitchens. Several design professionals weigh in on this architectural shift. Allison Handler of Allison Handler Design points out that clients now prefer more distinct spaces over large, open rooms. Dan Mazzarini of Mazzarini & Co. and ARCHIVE highlights the need for separate areas to compartmentalize different household functions. Danielle Chiprut of Danielle Rose Design Co. notes a demand for closed-concept or hybrid spaces that offer flexibility. Krystal Reinhard of Old Soul Design Studio adds that while open concepts remain popular, homeowners are increasingly recognizing the advantages of having more defined rooms. One of the primary reasons homeowners are opting for closed-concept layouts is the increased design versatility. Smaller, separate rooms allow for more diverse and bolder design choices, such as floral wallpaper in a dining room, green cabinetry in the kitchen, or a dark, moody living room. Kevin Kaminski of Kaminski + Pew suggests that smaller spaces offer more opportunities for unique design moves, which can make each room feel distinct and personal. Gideon Mendelson of Mendelson Group also emphasizes that more wall space in closed layouts accommodates built-ins, art displays, and other design elements that might not be suitable for open-plan areas. Another significant benefit is the creation of cozy and private individual rooms. Closed-concept layouts clearly define zones for specific activities, like cooking in the kitchen, relaxing in the living room, or playing in a dedicated playroom. This is particularly appealing to families with children, who often seek private spaces where doors can be closed. Hillary Cohen of HCO Interiors notes that for those working from home, the ability to close an office door helps maintain a clear separation between work and personal life. Furthermore, closed layouts significantly reduce noise transmission between rooms, addressing a common complaint about the loud and echoey nature of open-concept spaces, as pointed out by Mark Schubert of Phillip Harrison Interiors. Improved organization is another practical advantage of closed-concept homes. In open layouts, all belongings are constantly visible, making it challenging to maintain a tidy appearance, especially when guests are expected. Peter Spalding of Daniel House Club explains that walls in a closed layout allow for certain rooms to be closed off, making it easier to manage clutter and present a clean home. Despite the growing interest in closed concepts, designers confirm that open-concept spaces are not entirely fading out. The current trend suggests a preference for flexible layouts that blend elements of both, incorporating open areas with strategically placed closed rooms, such as media rooms, playrooms, and home offices. Handler describes this as a semi-open concept, where rooms are distinct but connected by open doorways rather than solid doors, offering a balance between openness and privacy. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ClosedConcept #OpenConcept #ArchitecturalTrends #HomeDecor #SpacePlanning

The redesign of Tom Lee Park in Memphis, Tennessee, by SCAPE and Studio Gang, which won a 2024 ASLA Professional Honor Award in General Design, serves as a case study in urban ecological design. The project, which opened in September 2023 after four years of development, addressed initial concerns that the park would primarily benefit downtown residents, leading to a significant shift in its design philosophy. The park's location along the Mississippi River has a history of transformation. Initially a dumping ground, it became Astor Park with the construction of Riverside Drive in 1935, primarily serving as a small grassy area. In 1954, it was renamed Tom Lee Park, honoring Tom Lee, an African American man who rescued 32 passengers from a capsized ship in 1925. The park was further expanded in 1991 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, adding 31 acres to stabilize the bluff. Before the redesign, the park was largely a treeless, compacted lawn, offering minimal amenities and shade, despite Memphis's hot summers. The Memphis Riverfront Concept, initiated in 2017 by Studio Gang, brought SCAPE on board as landscape architects. Early design ideas by Kate Orff, SCAPE's founder, were inspired by the Mississippi River's natural dynamics, envisioning distinct zones for programming. However, a pivotal moment occurred during a council meeting when a question arose about the park's inclusivity for all Memphians, not just downtown residents. This led Orff to reconceptualize the park into a series of "micro-deltas" or "microparks," each with an entrance catering to different communities. This approach transformed the park from a traditional linear space into five distinct areas, increasing topographical diversity and complexity. The park's final design is structured into four zones: Civic Gateway, Active Core, Community Batture, and Habitat Terrace. The Civic Gateway includes the Autozone Plaza and a fully accessible cut-bank bluff entryway. The Active Core features large lawns, the Sunset Canopy, basketball courts (dedicated to Tyre Nichols), and a playground with Mississippi River fauna-inspired structures. The large lawn areas in the Active Core were a compromise for the annual Memphis in May festival, which ironically no longer takes place at the park. The Community Batture is a contemplative space housing "A Monument to Listening" by artist Theaster Gates, featuring 32 sculptures representing the lives saved by Tom Lee and a 33rd for reflection. This installation visually connects to the original Tom Lee sculpture and the river, enhanced by a grove of river birch trees. The Habitat Terrace, the smallest zone, includes a high-performance ecolawn and areas for observing ecological processes, serving as an educational site. The ecolawn uses hardy, low-maintenance native species as an alternative to traditional lawns, highlighting a progressive ecological strategy. The design team prioritized durability and simplicity in material choices, using stone, wood decks, and fencing designed for longevity and ease of replacement. The plantings, however, are multilayered and complex, featuring various native species mixes. Maintaining these complex ecological plantings beyond initial establishment requires a robust maintenance plan. The Memphis River Parks Partnership monitors the plantings closely, with the understanding that an adaptive management approach, similar to gardening, is necessary. Beyond its physical design, the park integrates a curricular component with Memphis schools, providing hands-on ecological education for third and ninth graders. This program aims to educate students on critical landscape topics and urban resilience. The redesigned Tom Lee Park cost approximately $61 million, with an additional $1.4 million grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation for Gates's art installation. The project emphasizes a collaborative, community-focused ethos, aiming to create a welcoming space that fosters new memories and experiences for all Memphians. #LandscapeArchitecture #UrbanDesign #ParkRedesign #CommunityEngagement #EcologicalDesign #Memphis #SCAPEStudio #PublicSpace #EnvironmentalResilience

As 2024 draws to a close, a look ahead to 2025 reveals shifting trends in home design. A recent survey, "The State of Home Design," polled designers on upcoming styles, indicating a move towards bolder color palettes, French Art Deco, and a fusion of mid-century and Scandinavian aesthetics. These emerging styles are set to displace older trends, most notably the modern farmhouse aesthetic, which is predicted to decline significantly in popularity for 2025. Ninety-two percent of surveyed designers believe modern farmhouse will no longer be fashionable next year, while only 8% anticipate its continued relevance. Modern farmhouse style gained immense popularity in the 2010s, largely due to figures like Joanna Gaines and the show "Fixer Upper." Originating from rural inspirations, this style combines modern elements with farmhouse details such as simple, well-worn materials, rustic touches, reclaimed decor, and predominantly neutral color schemes. This typically involved blending vintage items with contemporary furnishings, emphasizing clean lines, and incorporating black accents into an otherwise light farmhouse setting. However, the design world is dynamic, and new concepts are now taking precedence. Devotees of modern farmhouse are reportedly moving away from its characteristic elements, such as reclaimed cabinets and shiplap. Instead, there's a growing interest in design details like secondhand mid-century pieces and walls drenched in color, featuring shades like ruby reds, dusty purples, and warm terra-cottas, which are being recognized as significant colors for the upcoming year. Designers offer several reasons for the anticipated decline of modern farmhouse. Susan Knof, owner and creative director of Knof Design, suggests that the aesthetic has become oversaturated and overly neutral. She argues that while people still desire comfort in their homes, they also seek more personality. Knof predicts that the English Country aesthetic, characterized by colorful interiors and intricate details, will emerge as the successor to modern farmhouse, offering a cozy yet vibrant alternative. Andrea Sinkin, president of Andrea Sinkin Design, explicitly states that "Modern farmhouse is over," noting that she never fully embraced the style despite its widespread appeal. She observes a shift away from industrial touches and black metals towards warmer patina tones. This perceptible shift indicates that many homeowners are prepared to abandon modern farmhouse as 2025 approaches. Its extensive popularity over several years may have led to its eventual decline. Even Joanna Gaines, a key figure in popularizing the style, is reportedly diversifying her designs, incorporating moodier and more contemporary elements into her spaces. Despite the general forecast, the article acknowledges that personal preference remains paramount. For those who still appreciate modern farmhouse, the recommendation is to continue embracing its elements, possibly by integrating a few 2025-friendly accents, or to consider the new year as an opportune moment to refresh home visuals. #HomeDesignTrends #ModernFarmhouse #InteriorDesign #DesignPredictions #EnglishCountry #ColorPalettes #ArtDeco #ScandinavianDesign #MidCenturyModern

Minimalist design, characterized by simple lines, neutral colors, and minimal visual clutter, has been a dominant trend in interior design for several years. This style is often seen in all-white kitchens with marble countertops, muted bedrooms, and neutral living rooms. While elements like clean lines and neutral colors are timeless in home design, there's a growing sentiment among interior designers that the sparse aesthetic of minimalism is losing its appeal. Instead, a shift towards more joyful, bright, and personalized styles is observed in the design world for 2024. Designers are moving away from minimalism for several reasons. Sarah Storms of Styled by Storms notes that minimalist interiors can feel "stiff or museum-like" and that the cool greys, blacks, and stark whites often used in these spaces can feel cold. Lucinda Sanford, another interior designer, points out that minimalism limits the creation of distinct zones and emotional spaces, and clients are increasingly seeking interiors that feel more inviting and allow for personal expression. Sanford emphasizes that homes should bring joy and be welcoming, advocating for designs that incorporate individual personality, such as patterned wallpaper, retro furniture, and colorful artwork. There is a rising demand among both renters and homeowners for "old-world charm," which includes incorporating antiques, reupholstered items, and handcrafted decor. These choices are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally friendly. The COVID-19 pandemic also played a significant role in this shift, as people spent more time at home, leading to a greater investment in personalizing and enhancing their living spaces. This experience fostered a lasting desire for comfortable and reflective homes. In place of minimalism, trending interior styles include maximalist, eclectic, and vintage aesthetics. This translates to the use of mismatched furniture, moody paint colors, natural woods, and vibrant patterns. Designers observe that clients are seeking more sophisticated spaces for entertaining, yet ones that are still practical for family life. There's a strong desire for homes to reflect the inhabitants, incorporating personal treasures from travels and family heirlooms. Eclectic interiors, which blend old and new elements, are particularly favored for their ability to evoke creativity and comfort through vibrant colors and unique accents. The reintroduction of color is significant, as designers like Storms highlight that color directly impacts emotion, bringing feelings of happiness, comfort, or serenity into a space. #InteriorDesignTrends #MinimalismOut #MaximalistDecor #EclecticInteriors #VintageHomeStyle #HomeDecor #PersonalizedSpaces #ColorInDesign #PostPandemicDesign

The farmhouse interior design style, characterized by elements like shiplap, barn doors, distressed finishes, and a neutral color palette, is facing a decline in popularity among professional designers. Originally gaining widespread appeal through figures like Joanna Gaines, the style has become ubiquitous and repetitive, leading to a saturation that diminishes its unique character. Designers express a desire to move beyond this overdone aesthetic, noting that many homes now feature similar looks due to the pervasive availability of farmhouse-style decor in stores. Jeanne Barber of Camden Grace Interiors highlights that when a style becomes excessively common and loses its original context, it tends to become unappealing to design professionals. She points out the prevalence of white houses with black windows, even in urban settings where a true farmhouse aesthetic is incongruous. Similarly, designer Ruthie Staalesen observes that the style's overuse has led to a lack of individuality in homes. Elizabeth Cross-Bear of Palm Henri Interiors adds that while farmhouse style initially offered a light, warm, and welcoming feel, the excessive use of elements like shiplap and forced white and black exteriors in new construction has stripped it of its unique charm. Kristina Lawrence, another designer, acknowledges the timeless appeal of farmhouse elements but suggests that the constant display of gray upholstery, white shiplap, and cliché wall decor, such as "Live Laugh Love" signs, has made the style feel monotonous rather than cozy. For those who still wish to incorporate farmhouse elements into their homes, designers suggest a more personalized approach. Instead of adhering strictly to traditional farmhouse motifs, individuals are encouraged to integrate their personal design preferences and introduce colors beyond the typical gray and white. Lawrence advises refreshing the style with warmer colors, deeper hues, varied textures, and unique character to avoid a mass-produced look. Staalesen emphasizes that true design involves curating a space that reflects one's own taste rather than blindly following trends. Lauren Sullivan of Well by Design concurs, stating that shiplap, barn doors, and distressed finishes should be reserved for authentic farmhouse settings, as their widespread and often staged application has rendered them overdone. Sullivan advocates for creating layered, collected interiors that feel personal and timeless, blending modern and traditional elements with a focus on craftsmanship, texture, and subtle luxury, moving away from theme-driven designs. #FarmhouseStyle #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #DesignPhilosophy #PersonalStyle #ModernFarmhouse #DesignCritique #HomeStyling

The design industry is witnessing a significant shift in color preferences, with a long-standing classic hue, navy blue, experiencing a notable decline in popularity. A 2022 trend report by 1stDibs indicates a substantial 43 percent drop in interest for navy blue. This decline signals a broader desire among individuals to create brighter and more open living spaces, moving away from potentially darker, more enclosing shades. The preference is now leaning towards lighter wall colors or strategic pops of color, aiming for an invigorating ambiance rather than a constrained one. In place of navy blue and other traditional jewel tones like mustard yellow and burgundy, designers are increasingly embracing duskier, more muted pastels. Shades such as mauve and rust orange are gaining traction, reflecting a move towards softer and more sophisticated palettes. However, the use of these muted pastels in larger areas requires careful consideration to avoid an overly sweet or saturated appearance. To effectively integrate these colors without overwhelming a space, designers suggest grounding them with black and white accents. Additionally, exploring various tones within the same color family can help maintain a fresh and dynamic aesthetic. The emerging color trends for the upcoming year extend beyond muted pastels. Cobalt blue is identified as the new dominant shade within the blue spectrum, offering a vibrant alternative to the receding navy. Furthermore, emerald green has emerged as the most popular color overall for 2022, a trend corroborated by major paint brands, many of whom have declared a verdant shade as their color of the year. This widespread adoption of green hues highlights a collective leaning towards nature-inspired palettes and a desire for freshness and vitality in interior design. Beyond color, the 1stDibs report also points to other evolving design preferences. Certain design elements like neon signs and cane seating are losing favor among consumers. Instead, there is a growing demand for comfort and artistry, with shoppers opting for plush upholstery and abstract artwork. This indicates a shift towards more tactile, cozy, and visually engaging interior elements. The report's predictions suggest a dynamic evolution in design preferences, with a clear move towards lighter, softer, and more artistically inclined spaces, while also highlighting the enduring appeal of certain classic pieces like Cesca chairs. #ColorTrends #InteriorDesign #DesignTrends #HomeDecor #ColorPalette #NavyBlue #EmeraldGreen #CobaltBlue #MutedPastels

A recent discussion among the BuzzFeed Community highlighted a desire for the return of several "outdated" home design trends, challenging the dominance of current minimalist and open-concept aesthetics. Many contributors expressed a longing for more defined spaces and personalized touches within their homes. The overarching sentiment suggests that homes should prioritize the comfort and preferences of their inhabitants rather than solely focusing on resale value or mass appeal. One of the most frequently mentioned trends is the return of walls and dedicated rooms, moving away from open-floor plans. Respondents argued that open layouts lead to excessive noise, allow cooking smells to permeate the entire house, and lack intimacy. They believe that separate rooms offer better sound insulation and a clearer distinction of functions, which is more practical for daily living and privacy. This rejection of open-concept living extends to the idea that renovating older homes by removing walls can detract from their original charm and functionality. Accent walls are another trend people wish to revive. Far from being seen as a fleeting fad, accent walls are appreciated for their ability to add personality and a focal point to a room without requiring extensive renovation. Many feel that the current trend of muted, gray interiors lacks imagination and style, advocating for the reintroduction of patterns, bright colors, and diverse textures. This perspective views interior design as an art form that should reflect individuality rather than conforming to a sterile, universally appealing aesthetic. Specific architectural features like sunken living rooms are also cited as desirable. These features are praised for creating a sense of intimacy and intrigue while still maintaining an open feel, offering a unique spatial dynamic that modern homes often lack. The sentiment is that these design elements contribute to a more engaging and distinctive living environment. Dedicated dining rooms are another trend poised for a comeback. In an era where dining spaces are often integrated into open layouts, many expressed a preference for a separate, distinct room for meals. This allows for a more formal and focused dining experience, creating a "gravity point" in the home where family and friends can gather and linger without distractions from other household activities. The article also touches upon a desire for more color in bathrooms, specifically colorful porcelain fixtures, as opposed to the standard white. White fixtures are criticized for being boring and quickly appearing dingy. The reintroduction of colors like harvest gold is seen as a way to add character and warmth to often overlooked spaces. Similarly, the trend of tan walls is missed by those who find current gray palettes cold and easily soiled, highlighting a preference for warmer, more traditional color schemes. Practical considerations also drive the desire for change. Many respondents expressed a preference for more bathrooms or bedrooms over excessively large primary bedrooms. The argument is that additional functional spaces are more beneficial for accommodating guests and daily household routines than an oversized bedroom. The discussion also included a call for the return of old-school ceiling light fixtures, preferred over the current trend of relying on lamps plugged into switched outlets, for their ease of use and consistent room illumination. Built-in features, such as shelves, entertainment centers, and storage units, are another highly desired trend. These elements are valued for their custom fit, space-saving capabilities, and ability to add architectural interest. Examples from older homes, such as built-in toasters and radios, are remembered fondly for their convenience and unique charm. The placement of laundry facilities also sparked debate, with some arguing that dedicated, often elaborate, laundry rooms are an inefficient use of space. They suggest moving laundry back to basements or closets, freeing up valuable square footage for more essential rooms like additional bathrooms. This highlights a focus on maximizing utility and practicality within home design. Finally, a nostalgic appreciation for the "farmhouse look" is noted for its warmth, durability, and affordability, particularly for older homes. The charm of sliding barn doors is also mentioned as a way to incorporate rustic elegance. The article concludes with a strong call for the return of actual color and patterns in home interiors, moving away from muted tones that are perceived as drab and uninspiring. The front porch also made the list, seen as a vital element for fostering community and connection among neighbors, encouraging social interaction that modern home designs often neglect. These community sentiments suggest a shift away from purely aesthetic trends towards designs that enhance livability, personalization, and social engagement. #HomeDesignTrends #OutdatedIsNewAgain #InteriorDesign #OpenConceptDebate #AccentWalls #SunkenLivingRooms #DedicatedDiningRooms #ColorfulBathrooms #BuiltInFeatures #FrontPorches