Seen at Interwoven May 2024

Original Style, a prominent tile manufacturer, has announced Ascot Blue as its Tile of the Year for 2024. This selection highlights a vivid yet contemporary blue shade, carefully chosen to align with current design trends. Ascot Blue is a recent addition to the company's Artworks collection, which originated in 1986 with tile sets designed for cast iron fireplaces. Described as an inky shade, Ascot Blue sits between indigo and navy, distinguished by its subtle grey undertones. This characteristic positions it as a versatile and appealing everyday blue, capable of serving as a richer and more engaging alternative to traditional mid-tone grey or beige neutrals. Emma Hughes, Studio Manager at Original Style, emphasizes the color's "versatility and ease of living with," recommending its combination with soft neutral tones and heritage prints to achieve a timeless and classic aesthetic. The unique glaze formulation for Ascot Blue is the result of meticulous work by Original Style's in-house designers and craftspeople. They employ high-quality raw materials and traditional techniques in its production. The tile is available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and forms, and the company has developed various set and flat lay designs to demonstrate its wide range of potential applications. These illustrative examples showcase how Ascot Blue can be effectively integrated into different home environments, including bathrooms, hallways, and kitchens, highlighting its adaptability and aesthetic appeal across diverse interior settings. In a bathroom setting, Ascot Blue can be used to create a luxurious, heritage-inspired look. This can be achieved by combining different tile formats with decorative statement floor tiles, and then accessorizing with brass accents to complete the opulent aesthetic. For hallways, utility rooms, and boot rooms, the tiles offer both practical benefits and a stylish design choice, making these transitional spaces more visually interesting and durable. When applied as a 'colour drench' in a bathroom, Ascot Blue delivers a look that is both contemporary and opulent, demonstrating its capacity to transform a space with a cohesive and immersive color scheme. The overall presentation by Original Style aims to inspire and guide consumers and designers on how to best incorporate Ascot Blue into their projects, leveraging its unique characteristics to create sophisticated and enduring interiors. #TileOfTheYear #AscotBlue #OriginalStyle #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #BlueTiles #BathroomDesign #HallwayDecor #KitchenTiles

The 2024 World Green Infrastructure Congress (WGIC), held in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland from September 3–4, served as a platform for advancing solutions in inclusive green infrastructure, sustainability, and urban resilience. Rebecca Mills, a leading sustainability strategist, compiled key takeaways from this global event, highlighting overarching themes and specific project insights. The congress focused on five primary themes: regeneration and biodiversity, technology and innovation, climate resilience, community engagement and equity, and health and wellbeing. Discussions on regeneration and biodiversity explored nature-based solutions like green roofs and vertical greenery to enhance urban biodiversity, promoting ecological health and resilience through integrated urban planning. Technological advancements were also a significant focus, with presentations on AI for urban forest monitoring, digital tools for mitigating urban heat islands, and innovative methods for sustainable water treatment. Climate resilience strategies included flood mitigation, sustainable urban design, and leveraging green infrastructure for climate adaptation. The importance of community engagement was underscored, emphasizing equitable access to green spaces and the socio-economic benefits of urban greening initiatives. Finally, the congress addressed the connection between green infrastructure and public health, demonstrating how nature-based solutions can improve mental and physical well-being for urban residents. The Awards Dinner at The Dome, Auckland Museum, featured hospitality from Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, fostering relationships between indigenous communities and global green infrastructure leaders. Several project spotlights and insights were shared, focusing on nature-inclusive cities. MVRDV, a Dutch architecture firm, presented their work on green infrastructure and nature-based solutions, emphasizing innovative green roofs, urban farms, climate adaptation strategies, and accessible public green spaces. Case studies included "Op het dak" in Rotterdam, a bistro pop-up on a rooftop garden, and "RoofScape" by MVRDV NEXT, which visualizes Rotterdam’s rooftop potential for various programs. "De Trap" in Rotterdam, an MVRDV installation, showcased how civic pride and public engagement can be fostered by activating derelict urban spaces with green infrastructure. "The Standard green wall" in Brisbane, designed by Woods Bagot and Fytogreen, was highlighted as Australia’s largest fire-compliant green wall, featuring diverse plant species and winning a World Green Infrastructure Award. The congress also delved into nature-based solutions through performance design and monitoring. Dr. Margaret Stanley from the University of Auckland presented on optimizing greening efforts by designing urban environments that reflect unique local ecosystems. Her key messages advocated for planting indigenous species, prohibiting invasive species, promoting less manicured green spaces for increased biodiversity, supporting local wildlife, and co-designing with indigenous communities. Dr. Stanley stressed that context-specific, ecologically appropriate solutions prevent negative impacts like invasive species spread and ecological degradation, fostering healthier urban ecosystems. The i-Canopy project, led by Anouk De Brock, focuses on dedicated monitoring of vertical greening systems using advanced techniques like Leaf Area Index and AI to assess performance factors such as air quality and temperature regulation, optimizing maintenance and contributing to sustainable urban environments. Professor Piotr Wężyk’s project on Detecting Urban Tree Species in TLS LiDAR 3D Point Clouds Using AI Technologies demonstrated the use of LiDAR and AI to identify tree species in urban settings, providing scalable methods for monitoring urban tree populations. Yi-Jung Lin presented the Component-Level Embodied Carbon Database for Landscape Hard Works in Taiwan, which quantifies the embodied carbon of landscape materials, enabling design choices that significantly reduce carbon footprints. The Wild West End project in London exemplified successful nature-based solutions through partnerships, demonstrating how collaboration between public, private, and community stakeholders can transform urban areas with greening initiatives. Ultimately, the congress emphasized that New Zealand cities, such as Auckland, Wellington, Hamilton, and Christchurch, can leverage these insights to become more inclusive urban environments. By integrating green infrastructure and nature-based solutions, these cities can enhance biodiversity, reduce carbon emissions, and create healthier, more livable spaces. The holistic approach, combining technology, community involvement, and ecological awareness, positions Aotearoa New Zealand cities to become global exemplars of sustainable urban living, capable of withstanding climate change impacts, enhancing public health, and providing vibrant spaces for future generations. The event was a collaborative effort by the World Green Infrastructure Network, the University of Auckland Creative Arts and Industries, and Design for Nature, with support from various sponsors. #GreenInfrastructure #UrbanResilience #Sustainability #ClimateChange #NatureBasedSolutions #Biodiversity #UrbanPlanning #TechnologicalInnovation #CommunityEngagement

Color drenching is projected to be a significant trend in interior design for 2024, characterized by saturating an entire room in a single color. This technique involves painting walls, ceilings, and molding in a chosen shade, and then complementing these with furniture, accessories, and rugs in the same color family. The result is a dramatic and bold aesthetic that has already gained traction in European and English design circles. Becca Stern, co-founder of the Australian-based furniture company Mustard Made, describes color drenching as transforming spaces into a monochromatic wonderland where color extends to every element, including furniture, features, and storage, making them a focal point. This approach is not limited to just one shade; Stern notes that color drenching can be achieved with two soothing tones, such as olive and sage or lilac and navy, which she recently used for children's bedrooms. Patrick O'Donnell, a color consultant for British paint company Farrow & Ball, emphasizes a strategic approach to color drenching. He advises careful consideration of color choice, as an all-encompassing application can be overwhelming if not executed thoughtfully. O'Donnell suggests using a color board to make intentional decisions and always attempting a cohesive mood with the paint. He cautions against color drenching in areas with numerous distracting features, like a busy kitchen, where a single color could make the space feel cluttered rather than unified. Instead, he recommends extending the wall color to the trim rather than painting the trim white, which he found created a messier perception of the space in his own kitchen. While American homeowners have historically favored more neutral and pale tones, Stern anticipates a shift towards bolder choices in 2024. She believes that people are becoming more confident and adventurous with color in their homes. However, she also clarifies that color drenching is not about creating an overly vibrant or high-saturation impact. Instead, it represents an evolution of color styling, allowing for a slightly softer version within the same color family by selecting shades that are less stark. This means homeowners can still achieve a bold look without it being overwhelmingly intense. For those considering color drenching, Stern offers practical tips. She advises choosing a color that is already loved and present in the home, perhaps through a piece of art or a favorite chair, as a guide. Starting small, such as with a color-drenched nook, can help in exploring the concept. To create depth and interest within a monochromatic scheme, O'Donnell suggests mixing finishes and gloss levels, using flat paint on walls and ceilings, and eggshell on trim and doors. Stern further recommends incorporating texture through nubby, high-pile rugs, shags, tapestries, pillows, and mixed media artwork. Additionally, she advises playing with contrast and scale, combining custom furniture with existing pieces, and choosing hardware in complementary colors. Before committing to a color, it's crucial to test it in the actual room, considering how different lighting and existing furnishings will influence its appearance. By following these guidelines, individuals can successfully implement color drenching to create a sophisticated and impactful interior. #ColorDrenching #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor2024 #MonochromaticScheme #BoldColors #DesignTips #PaintTrends #HomeStyling

The author shares an exclusive preview of the John Lewis spring/summer 2025 homeware collection, highlighting key pieces available now and those to anticipate later in the season. The collection showcases cheerful colors and abundant patterns, confirming existing home decor trends like the preference for dark wood. Many items from this range are already accessible for purchase and are rapidly becoming popular. The article provides a detailed overview of furniture offerings, new brand partnerships, and stylish accessories from the collection. In the furniture category, the uniquely shaped and comfortable Lozenge sofa is a focal point. Originally available as a chaise style, it now includes a three-seater version, offered in pistachio green—the brand's color of the year—and a classic cream boucle, with the latter available for quick delivery. For outdoor spaces, a curved, comfortable Lozenge garden sofa is introduced, along with the new Marcy sling garden chair, priced at £149 and available in burnt orange, green, and greige striped finishes, noted for its comfort and trendy aesthetic. John Lewis is expanding its brand partnerships, making high-demand brands more accessible. New additions include Ottolenghi's serveware in collaboration with Serax and Jamie Oliver's 'Big Love' tableware range, which features popular items like a pink oval scalloped platter suitable for serving elongated foods. Another significant collaboration is Henry Holland's partnership with Harlequin, offering patterned wallpapers and soft furnishings, including stylish cushions. The article also mentions the availability of the MADE range, including stylish lighting such as an asymmetrical rattan table lamp, within John Lewis stores. The collection also features a variety of stylish accessories designed to enhance room aesthetics. The bestselling striped stoneware vase from the previous season is reprised in new colorways and sizes. A jute chequerboard rug in a chocolate brown shade is highlighted for its on-trend design and versatility, suitable even for kitchen flooring. John Lewis’s expertise in home textiles is further evident in its made-to-measure curtains and quilted bedspreads, such as a patchwork design that adds color and pattern to bedding, consistently popular with customers. Looking ahead, the article anticipates exciting lighting additions, particularly a scalloped rattan table lamp, expected to be a bestseller given the enduring popularity of the scalloped trend. A highly anticipated collaboration with heritage fabric and wallpaper brand Sanderson is set to launch on March 20th. This collection will feature over 200 products, including furniture, wallpaper, and lighting, all adorned with Sanderson's archival patterns, with prices starting from £15. The author expresses enthusiasm for this upcoming release, suggesting it will offer many showstopping items for home decoration. #JohnLewis #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #SpringSummerCollection #Furniture #HomewareTrends #OutdoorLiving #BrandPartnerships #HomeAccessories

For an extended period, home design gravitated towards a minimalist aesthetic, characterized by calm palettes, slender furniture, and a general editing out of anything perceived as excessive. This approach often resulted in tidy, yet somewhat unfinished-feeling rooms. However, a significant shift is underway, with bold stripes emerging as a key design element, moving beyond mere decorative accents to function as optical architecture. These stripes provide structure, add presence, and give modern rooms a sense of backbone. The previous decade’s minimalist trend, featuring white sofas, greige walls, and understated patterns, initially offered a sense of calm. Over time, however, these polite rooms began to blend into a uniform, beige aesthetic, leading to a desire for greater individuality and presence. Designers have responded by reintroducing the stripe, not as clutter, but as a simple yet impactful design choice. Interior designer Flora Soames highlights that stripes serve a specific purpose: when a plain surface is insufficient and a full pattern is not desired, a stripe offers structure and form. It acts like a drawn line in an architectural sketch, providing direction and defining boundaries, thereby bringing an open room into focus or adding an edge to a subdued space. Unlike soft washes of color that recede, a strong line commands attention and maintains its presence. This current fascination with stripes represents a larger trend away from the blandness of minimalist spaces, which often felt akin to waiting rooms. There is a quiet resurgence of pattern, texture, and rhythm, aiming to create interiors that feel lived-in and personalized. Stripes effectively achieve this, appearing natural amidst architectural features like arches and molding, and offering a crisp, defined look in new constructions. In busy environments, stripes guide the eye, preventing visual chaos, while in sparse rooms, they add essential definition. This versatility allows stripes to occupy a comfortable middle ground in design. Stripes offer remarkable flexibility, allowing for variations in width, spacing, and color pairings to alter the mood of a space. Designers are increasingly treating stripes as a strategic tool to direct attention and influence how a room is perceived, rather than merely a pattern choice. Soames emphasizes the integral role of stripes in her designs, noting their consistent presence. Beyond their aesthetic contribution, stripes can manipulate visual perception: bold stripes on walls or wallpaper can make ceilings appear higher, while striped curtains can enhance the perceived height of windows. Strategically placed striped rugs or floorboards can extend the apparent length or width of a room, creating optical illusions without requiring structural changes. This ability to subtly rewrite the room's perception is a key benefit. The application of stripes extends beyond flat surfaces to three-dimensional elements such as fluting and tambour, which are slim vertical ridges on furniture like kitchen islands and consoles. These textured surfaces, carved into wood, plaster, or stone, introduce movement and craftsmanship without overwhelming the space, catching light and shadow to create subtle dynamism. The brain's natural appreciation for repetition is engaged by these vertical and horizontal textures, which can evoke a sense of upward stretching or settled stability, respectively. This blend of steadiness and elevation contributes to the enduring appeal of stripes. Stripes are currently valuable due to their diverse behavioral characteristics—they can be bold, subtle, or nearly invisible. The most effective approach often involves selecting a single element for striped application, such as a painted accent wall, a striped rug to define an open-plan living area, or long striped curtains to enhance window presence. The impact can vary from high-contrast pairings like black and white to subtle tonal differences that become apparent under changing light. For those averse to overt patterns, disguised stripes in millwork—ribbed cabinetry, grooved panels, or slatted doors—offer an architectural rather than a printed effect. The objective is not to cover every surface with stripes but to use a few distinct lines as a framework, creating a sense of inherent belonging rather than a fleeting trend. The current relevance of stripes is also tied to design fatigue, as the prevalence of neutral schemes has led to a desire for more expressive interiors. Stripes provide discipline without descending into chaos, introducing edge, color, and a stronger sense of form. They can visually elevate a room, add character to a rental, or enhance a plain bedroom. Functionally, in an era where homes serve multiple purposes—offices, studios, and virtual backgrounds—stripes offer geometric clarity for digital appearances and define distinct zones within limited spaces where various activities occur simultaneously. This multifaceted utility ensures their continued prominence in interior design. #BoldStripes #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTrends #Minimalism #ArchitecturalElements #SpatialPerception #TexturedSurfaces

The year 2024 has been significantly shaped by the resurgence of vintage maximalism in home decor, a trend largely influenced by John Lewis's annual retail report. This report highlights shifts in consumer shopping habits and emerging interior design preferences, attributing much of the maximalist revival to the aesthetic portrayed in Jilly Cooper's TV adaptation of 'Rivals' on Disney+. The show's opulent and flamboyant interior sets, characterized by elements such as ruches, pelmets, bed valances, fringe, trim, and luxuriously upholstered ottomans, captivated audiences. This sensory-rich design, with its emphasis on plush finishes and alluring textures, offers a stark contrast to the minimalist Scandi aesthetic that dominated the previous two decades. The report identifies several homeware categories that embody this vintage maximalist trend. Luxurious bedding experienced a substantial surge in popularity, with silk bedding sales increasing by a third, possibly influenced by specific cultural references. Quilts and quilted throws also saw a 30 percent rise in sales, with the Baxter throw, known for its 1970s-inspired velvet and paisley design, being particularly sought after. This indicates a consumer desire for comfort combined with intricate patterns and rich materials. Curtain tiebacks, an iconic 1980s accessory, made a notable comeback, with sales more than doubling by 108 percent. The 'Rivals' effect played a role in this, as tiebacks add ostentation and flair, enhancing the drape of curtains to create a voluminous and luxurious appearance. Tori Murphy, a design company, has incorporated curtain hardware into its collection to meet this demand, showcasing how tiebacks can transform the look of windows and doorways. Vintage furniture also resonated with consumers, who gravitated towards established brands recognized by previous generations. Brands like Laura Ashley, prominent in the 1980s, and mid-century modern pioneers G Plan (founded 1953) and Ercol (founded 1920) experienced renewed interest. Ercol, still producing furniture in Buckinghamshire four generations later, saw an impressive 52 percent increase in sales across its range of chairs, tables, sideboards, stools, and shelves. Online searches for G Plan vintage sofas soared by 600 percent. These figures demonstrate a strong preference for durable, quality pieces with a historical appeal, reflecting a broader appreciation for retro aesthetics and craftsmanship in contemporary homes. #VintageMaximalism #InteriorDesignTrends #JohnLewisReport #CurtainTiebacks #LuxuriousBedding #VintageFurniture #HomeDecor #RetroAesthetics #MidCenturyModern

The year 2024 marks a shift in home design towards a more personalized and extraordinary aesthetic, moving away from previous years' neutral and simplified contemporary styles. Homes are evolving to serve diverse purposes, prioritizing comfort, wellness, and eco-friendly features alongside technological integration. Traditional layouts are being reconfigured, with dining rooms becoming less common, living spaces designed for flexibility, and the emergence of wellness rooms aimed at promoting positive energy. The once crisp, neutral interiors are now being infused with dramatic colors, unique art, textured furniture, and eclectic decor, indicating a desire for more expressive environments. Kitchen islands are expanding to function as central dining areas, while outdoor spaces are being transformed into popular gathering spots featuring firepits and recreational activities. One significant trend for 2024 is the emphasis on functional outdoor spaces, which are gaining importance as valuable home additions. Homeowners are seeking at-home retreats complete with sensory gardens, lounging areas, fully equipped outdoor kitchens and bars, outdoor televisions, and sustainable furnishings. This trend reflects a desire for solitude and peace, aiming to create a 'vacation at home' atmosphere. Concurrently, increasingly large windows are drawing attention to outdoor greenery, further integrating natural elements into home design. Another prominent trend is the mixing of metal finishes throughout the home. This approach moves away from matching metals, incorporating warm metals like brass with cool metals such as chrome to add visual interest and depth. This trend is expected to continue, with a gradual shift towards silvery hues driven by environmental consciousness. Additionally, maximalism and personalization are becoming extreme, as consumers gravitate towards color-drenching, rich textures, and geometric patterns. Homeowners are breaking from conventional, 'cookie-cutter' designs to embrace more expressive and adventurous styles, where entire spaces can resemble works of art, reflecting a 'dream it, do it' mentality. Finally, eco- and tech-friendly solutions are integral to contemporary home design, reflecting a broader lifestyle shift towards sustainability and healthier living. This includes smart homes equipped with energy-efficient lighting, low-volatile paints, reclaimed eco-friendly furnishings, and voice-controlled home devices. The future also anticipates the integration of AI-powered home assistants, demonstrating a coexistence of ecological awareness and technological advancement. Overall, the focus is on creating cozy, aesthetically pleasing, and emotionally supportive environments that blend nature, serenity, comfort, and modern technology, pushing beyond traditional design boundaries into unconventional and forward-thinking aesthetics. #HomeStaging #DesignTrends #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving #MixedMetals #Maximalism #EcoFriendlyDesign #SmartHomeTechnology

The annual announcements of the 'Color of the Year' (COTY) by various paint and stain brands serve as a significant indicator of upcoming trends in home design. These selections are not merely marketing tactics but rather reflect the collective mood and prevailing aesthetic sensibilities of the time. The 2026 COTY picks predominantly feature warm, comforting, and subdued earthy tones, signaling a desire for serenity and classic elegance in living spaces. Pantone's 'Cloud Dancer' is an airy white chosen to evoke serenity and spaciousness, promoting well-being and lightness. Pittsburgh Paints Company selected 'Warm Mahogany,' a rich red neutral designed to foster deep conversation, making it suitable for dining rooms and cafes. Krylon's 'Matte Coffee Bean,' a dark brown, signifies a rise in dark neutrals, offering a timeless yet sophisticated warmth without overpowering a space. C2 Paint's 'Epernay,' named after a French village known for its limestone architecture, reflects a return to classic, enduring colors that blend old-world elegance with modern aesthetics. Sherwin-Williams introduced 'Universal Khaki,' a subtle, earthy tan that serves as a versatile background for stronger neutrals and vibrant colors. Valspar's 'Warm Eucalyptus,' a restorative green, emphasizes mindful living and the appreciation of small moments through serene design. Behr's 'Hidden Gem,' a soothing jade, provides a sense of balance and depth, being both timeless and fresh. Dutch Boy's 'Melodious Ivory' is a creamy warm neutral that evokes nostalgia and brings harmony to any living space, reminiscent of indulgent treats. Minwax chose 'Special Walnut,' inspired by the honest beauty of wood and the renewed desire for real, enduring materials like reclaimed beams and heirloom furniture, highlighting the aged patina of well-loved spaces. Lastly, Clark+Kensington's 'Hazelnut Crunch,' a rusty red, draws inspiration from biophilic design, cozy minimalism, and nature-rooted tones, balancing familiarity with boldness. Several overarching trends emerge from these 2026 COTY selections. Firstly, earthiness is a dominant theme, with all colors being naturally occurring and often rooted in shades of brown. This reflects a desire for grounding and inspiration from organic elements, manifested in soothing and understated hues. Secondly, the selections are notably classic, comparable to smart wardrobe investments that remain stylish over time. These colors offer longevity and versatility, minimizing the need for frequent repainting or restaining as trends evolve. Thirdly, there is a distinct retro influence, specifically a nod to the warm and natural palettes popular in the 1970s. While modernized and more subdued, the essence of that era's color schemes is clearly present. Finally, a strong emphasis on neutrality is evident, as all chosen colors are designed to serve as supportive elements, complementing vibrant companions while maintaining a serene and gentle presence. This collective shift towards earthy, classic, retro, and neutral palettes indicates a broader cultural longing for comfort, stability, and timeless beauty in home environments. #ColorOfTheYear2026 #PaintTrends #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #EarthyTones #ClassicColors #NeutralPalettes #RetroRevival #MindfulLiving

The choice of flooring in a home extends beyond mere functionality, serving as a critical element in defining a space's aesthetic. Design professionals emphasize that flooring presents a significant opportunity to express personal style, whether one prefers a minimalist approach or a maximalist design. This article compiles the top flooring trends for 2024, as identified by industry experts and professional interior designers, offering a diverse range of predictions. One prominent trend is the return to rich walnut hardwood floors, moving away from lighter, bleached oaks and washed grays. This shift aligns with a resurgence in color saturation, intricate patterns, and traditional design elements, with walnut adding a historical depth and richness that beautifully complements vintage furniture and decor. Another key trend involves rugs that incorporate a mix of low and high piles, demonstrating how simplicity can still make a significant statement. These textured rugs, often in neutral tones, enhance coziness and transform the floor into a focal point, especially during colder months. Natural materials are also gaining traction, with interior designers highlighting their importance in creating warmth and an inviting atmosphere, particularly in new construction. Examples include reclaimed Texas white oak flooring, French limestone walls, and bold marble features, all contributing to an organic modern aesthetic. Large shapes and patterns are making a dramatic comeback in flooring, particularly in black and white, inspired by Hollywood Regency styles but refreshed with contemporary scales. This trend allows for instant drama and a bold statement. Wide plank wood floors in warm tones are replacing cooler-toned options, often paired with warm, natural tiles like unglazed terracotta. Square patterns, including seamless and checkerboard designs, are appearing throughout interiors, nodding to neoclassical and Art Deco influences and offering an upscale touch to everyday spaces. Patterned tiles continue to be popular, offering versatility in designs ranging from geometric to floral, allowing homeowners to infuse personality and character that suits any style, from modern to eclectic. Luxury vinyl plank flooring is anticipated to be highly popular in 2024 due to its unmatched durability and scratch resistance, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas and homes with children and pets. Natural materials like honed stone and matte hardwood are also central to creating restorative rooms, with limestone, travertine, and wood serving as warm neutrals that maintain their appeal over time. Dimensional rugs, featuring combinations of high and low piles, are noted for significantly enhancing luxury and tactile experience. Terrazzo is re-emerging as a versatile flooring option, seen in strong pattern play beyond its traditional use in mid-century homes and commercial spaces, showcasing its aesthetic beauty and durability. Lastly, there is a move towards understated, textural rugs, custom-sized to create a more tailored look, optimize floor plans, and provide greater longevity to a space, moving away from splashy statement rugs. These trends collectively offer inspiration for both budget-friendly updates and extensive home renovations, emphasizing both style and practicality in flooring choices for the coming year. #FlooringTrends2024 #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #NaturalMaterials #HardwoodFlooring #PatternedTiles #TexturedRugs #LuxuryVinylPlank #Terrazzo

The year 2024 is characterized by a highly personalized approach to interior design, where nearly anything goes. This shift is evident in the rapid cycling of viral aesthetics on platforms like TikTok, including 'Unexpected Red,' 'Bookshelf Wealth,' and 'Mob Wife' trends. Design experts emphasize that personalization is paramount, with a growing focus on previously underestimated areas of the home such as hallways, pantries, utility rooms, and laundry rooms. Searches for 'handmade' and 'eclectic interior design vintage' items are steadily increasing on platforms like Etsy and Pinterest, reflecting a desire for unique, collected pieces rather than coordinated sets. Key trends emerging from Milan Design Week 2024 and insights from ELLE DECOR A-List designers and industry experts include a move towards more luxurious and embellished furniture. Gold accents are becoming prominent, moving beyond traditional stone and leather palettes. Examples include Edra's new Minerals fabrics with glittering upholstery and Molteni&C;'s gold edition of the D.154.2 armchair. Armani Casa's new collection, inspired by Giorgio Armani's travels, also features significant metallic accents, such as gold leaf in stone surfaces and 24-karat gold hardware in kitchen ranges from Officine Gullo. Outdoor furniture is also experiencing a surge, with an emphasis on rounded and squishy forms. This continues the trend of kidney bean-shaped furniture seen in recent years, now extending to outdoor sofas, armchairs, and cocktail tables. Brands like Dedon and Meridiani showcased curvy outdoor pieces, while De Padova introduced the 'Afternoons' collection with a woven basket aesthetic. Indoors, the preference for squishy, low armchairs and sofas is highlighted by Poltrona Frau's new 'Squash' collection by Faye Toogood and Minotti's Emmi armchair by Hannes Peer. The aesthetic of the late 1980s and 1990s is making a comeback, replacing the long-standing fascination with the '70s. This era is remembered for its optimism and pop culture influences. Ikea is reissuing popular '80s designs like the Klippan sofa and Poäng lounge chair. Local firms are also drawing inspiration from this period, evident in collections featuring postmodern-ish chairs, lamps, and tables. Cork is gaining traction as a material of choice due to its sustainability, being biodegradable, chemical-free, durable, water-resistant, and renewable. Designers like Studio Dorian and Charlap Hyman & Herrero are incorporating cork extensively in interiors, covering walls and ceilings. High-gloss walls are out, and textured surfaces are in. Designers are moving away from slick, reflective finishes in favor of brushed or hand-applied textures such as Roman clay, limewash, or hand-tooled plaster. This preference for texture also extends to natural materials, with designers exploring three-dimensional patterns in wood and manipulated stone surfaces. Brown is emerging as a significant statement color, replacing drab gray tones. Dark brown, yellow, and light brown are identified as top color trends, offering warmth and richness. Rug companies like Woven are incorporating chocolate browns, rust, and golden wheat tones into their designs. Terra-cotta tiles are experiencing a revival, with designers appreciating their sculptural opportunities and natural shades. Ceramic and terra-cotta were highlighted as popular materials in a 1stDibs survey, admired for their versatility across various design styles. Bouclé fabric remains popular, but with fresh updates. While a classic, new versions feature thicker pile and diverse colors, moving away from skimpy cream and off-white variations. The trend leans towards integrating curves and softer shapes into furniture design, seen in iconic pieces like Hans Wegner’s Wishbone chairs and Vladimir Kagan’s Serpentine sofas. Artisanal, handmade pieces are highly sought after, reflecting a desire for human touch and irregularity in design. This includes ceramic tile, hand-carved wood, and handblown glass, with a focus on celebrating imperfections in natural materials. Finally, high-tech lighting is becoming an essential decorating tool, offering the ability to change light intensity and color, enhancing both ambiance and the display of art. Companies like Philips, AiSPiRE, and USAI Lighting provide programmable LED solutions. Sustainability continues to drive the adoption of alternative materials. Designers are prioritizing materials that are consciously sourced and environmentally friendly, such as furniture made from recycled cardboard or sawdust. Victorian-era details are also seeing a resurgence, with a modern interpretation that emphasizes architectural elements like beaded board, square and diamond shapes, crown moldings, and chevron floors, balancing ornate styles with cleaner, more geometric forms. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTrends2024 #MilanDesignWeek #SustainableDesign #FurnitureTrends #ColorTrends #TextureInDesign #ArtisanalCraft

Paris Design Week 2024, held from January 18 to 22, showcased a diverse array of new launches in fabric, wallpaper, lighting, and furniture across various arrondissements of the French capital. Despite sub-zero temperatures, the event attracted significant crowds, with St Germain serving as a central hub for Paris Deco Off and Maison Objet In The City, hosting over 100 showrooms, apartments, and pop-up spaces. Key highlights included Dedar Milano's 'Contemporary Archives' collection, which featured an eclectic mix of classical and contemporary styles. Noteworthy were three new interpretations of their woven jacquard tiger’s skin, available in varying scales of deep orange tiger-print fabrics. Sahco, with its 200-year textile legacy, presented designs inspired by 'Neo-classicism in the North,' including 'Deedee' (a graphic polka dot), 'Fiorella' (an epic flower design), and 'Satora' (a vibrant leopard print). Loro Piana showcased new products focusing on personalization for various home areas, displayed in an apartment with Eiffel-designed ceiling beams. Their offerings included customizable tablecloths, placemats, runners, linen napkins with embroidery and openwork, organic cotton and linen bedding, and a cashmere blanket with chevron ribbon options. They also introduced the 'Sils Stripe' rug, handwoven in New Zealand wool, and new indoor fabrics like Harris Tweed interpretation (Hebrides), a cashmere and wool mix (Khangai), a hemp/jute/cotton/viscose blend (Tusco), and an ultra-soft cashmere and linen (Ponente). A selection of outdoor fabrics with high recycled content was also featured. Studio Liaigre presented a capsule collection of five pieces, including seating and lighting, originally designed by Christian Liaigre for Hotel Costes, embodying clean lines and simplicity in neutral palettes. Delcourt Collection celebrated its 30th anniversary with the 'Piece By Piece' series of contemporary furniture and new textiles, reflecting Christophe Delcourt's discreet French excellence, highlighted by the 'Nin' console and the 'Oko' side table. The Socialite Family curated 'La Scopa' in a classic Parisian apartment, drawing inspiration from a centuries-old Italian game. This temporary exhibition featured their latest furniture, homeware, and art, intertwined with items from Puces de Saint-Owen, with the 'Rotondo' modular sofa being a standout piece. Tolix unveiled the completed 'Patio' collection by the late Pauline Deltour, showcased at the Septieme Gallery, extending the iconic galvanized chair line with considered design, material finishes, and colors. Ligne Roset announced a series of 18 designs by midcentury designer Pierre Guariche, to be released through Cinna. Creative director Michel Roset emphasized Guariche's natural fit with Ligne Roset's avant-garde ethos, with pieces like the 'Vallée Blanche' chaise longue expected to launch in May 2024. Project 213A, founded in 2020, debuted at Paris Design Week with sustainable, well-crafted furniture and homeware, including lighting, artisanal ceramics, and handcrafted wooden pieces like the 'Mirror' lounge chair and 'Porto' modular sofa, made by local craftsmen in Northern Portugal. Little Greene introduced 'National Trust Papers IV,' its fourth collaboration with The National Trust, featuring eight wallpaper designs from historic properties in freshly imagined, contemporary colorways. Rubelli, under new creative directors Formafantasma, launched the 'Gardens' collection, a botanical-themed range with literal and abstract designs in sherbet hues. Hermès unveiled a new tableware collection by Benoît-Pierre Emery, featuring fine drawings by Virginie Jamin inspired by equestrian braiding, colored in tangy hues of lemon, mint, and petrol blue alongside natural leather shades. Fromental collaborated with Marta Sala Éditions for 'The New Guilded Age,' showcasing four distinctive wallcoverings—Haiku, Molten, Equus, and Kiku Garden—in curated rooms with Marta Sala Éditions furniture. #ParisDesignWeek #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #TextileDesign #Wallpaper #HomeDecor #LuxuryInteriors #DesignExhibition #FrenchDesign

The living room, often considered the heart of a home, is continuously evolving in terms of design and comfort. For 2024, interior designers anticipate a notable shift towards deeper, moodier color palettes, moving beyond traditional neutrals. Colors such as plum, mauve, wine, and dark brown are expected to gain prominence, reflecting a desire for more atmospheric and intimate living spaces. These darker shades are often complemented by luxurious materials like velvet and furniture featuring curved designs, fostering a sense of coziness without sacrificing sophistication. Design experts emphasize the growing trend of creating multipurpose zones within living rooms, transforming them from purely formal areas into dynamic spaces for various activities. For instance, a single living room might feature a central seating arrangement for relaxation, a designated writing desk for work or creative pursuits, and a game table for entertainment. This approach, exemplified by designer Kerri Pilchik, combines diverse textures and materials—such as moss-green velvet sofas, fabrics from Fermoie and Soane for drapery, antique French desks, teak midcentury armchairs, and a mix of rattan-and-glass side tables with linen-wrapped coffee tables—to enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Another emerging trend involves the use of hand-painted murals as an alternative to traditional wallpaper or limewash finishes. Leah Alexander from Beauty is Abundant highlights this customization, with murals creating a playful yet chic ambiance. These personalized artistic elements often reflect the colors and decor present in the room, creating a cohesive and unique design statement. For those hesitant to fully embrace dark colors, earthy tones offer a more natural introduction to color. Designers like Alexis Pew of Kaminski + Pew advocate for warm, textural spaces that incorporate natural materials and muted earthy palettes, including creams, browns, rusts, and soft greens. This shift aims to create laid-back and inviting environments, moving away from stark whites and grays. Additionally, impactful details, such as intricate shapes and curves in furniture and decor, are becoming increasingly important. Designer Noz Nozawa emphasizes how these finer details, while traditional, bring energy and craftsmanship to a room, ensuring visual interest from every angle. Minimalist floor plans are also gaining traction, focusing on intentional furniture placement and reducing clutter. Designer Hilary Matt suggests that 2024 will see a move towards more strategic layouts, where every piece serves a purpose, contributing to an open and uncluttered feel. Statement lighting is another key trend, with designers predicting a rise in bolder sconce choices and innovative designs in blown glass, jewel-like fixtures, and organic shapes. This emphasis on lighting transforms it from a mere utility into a significant decorative element. Finally, maximalist momentum, characterized by an embrace of color, texture, and layers, is making a comeback. Tara McCauley notes a departure from colorless aesthetics driven by resale value, favoring designs that prioritize personal happiness and vibrant living. Moody color palettes, encompassing shades like plum, black, navy blue, and burgundy, are being used to create dramatic yet cozy spaces, dispelling the myth that dark colors shrink a room. The English countryside aesthetic, with its grandmillennial touches and thoughtful layering of oversized furnishings in creamy palettes, painted furniture, and cozy elements, is also gaining popularity, bringing a warm and inviting atmosphere to homes.

The Coverings 2024 fair in Atlanta, Georgia, showcased the latest innovations and aesthetic developments in ceramic tile, highlighting its versatility, sustainability, and durability for various applications, including residential, commercial, hospitality, and indoor/outdoor spaces. Editors identified six prominent trends. The first trend, Architectural Graphics, featured Ceramica Fioranese's "Italian Landscapes" collection by 23Bassi. This collection draws inspiration from architectural motifs such as arches and stepped facades, offering four decorative tiles named after cities like Florence, L’Aquila, and Siena, alongside five plain single-color options for designers to combine. This allows for customized and architecturally resonant tile compositions. Invisible Functionality emerged as a second key trend, exemplified by ABK Stone’s "Cooking Surface Prime." This innovative system integrates an entirely invisible induction cooking unit directly into a sintered slab countertop. The slab itself becomes the burner, utilizing magnetism to heat only iron receptacles placed upon it, while the surrounding surface remains cool to the touch. This provides a sleek, uncluttered kitchen aesthetic while maintaining high functionality and safety. The third trend focused on Soft Color, illustrated by Wow's "Melange" collection. These tiles feature elegant color gradients that meld into one another, mimicking a fading sunset. Available in long, skinny planks measuring 4.6 by 21.3 inches, the tiles come with a tactile, soft-matte finish, suitable for creating serene and visually calming environments. Brutalist Inspired designs formed the fourth trend, with Portobello America’s LAB collection standing out. This collection embraces the sleek industrialism of contemporary architecture, offering tiles with a corrugated concrete look and feel. Available in multiple warm or cool gray shades, it also includes a "ceppo de gris" effect tile, which features chunky speckled aggregates, reflecting a popular stone aesthetic seen at the show. Artistic Whimsy represented the fifth trend, also from Portobello, featuring the "Impasto" collection. This collection comprises organically shaped scales with a pleasingly irregular, handmade effect. Influenced by artists such as Pollock and Kusama, these tiles provide a unique, artistic touch to surfaces, celebrating imperfection and artisanal craftsmanship. Finally, Seventies Panache constituted the sixth trend, highlighted by Acquario Due’s glossy glazed ceramic tiles. These tiles, like the leafy and dimensional "Calathea," evoke a vibrant 1970s aesthetic. They are particularly well-suited for hospitality spaces such as restaurants and hotels, adding a distinctive and retro-inspired character, as demonstrated in projects like the Faloria Spa and Mountain Resort in Cortina, Italy. These trends collectively underscore the industry's focus on innovative functionality, diverse aesthetics, and adaptable applications of ceramic tiles. #TileTrends #CeramicTile #Coverings2024 #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalGraphics #InvisibleFunctionality #SoftColors #BrutalistDesign #ArtisticWhimsy #SeventiesPanache

Boucle, a textured fabric, is emerging as a significant interior design trend for 2024, moving beyond its traditional presence in fashion. This trend offers a tactile contrast to smoother fabrics like velvet, which previously dominated furniture design. Boucle fabric is created by spinning two pieces of yarn together, with one left loose to form characteristic loops, resulting in a unique, nubbly texture. While traditionally made from wool, synthetic boucle varieties are gaining popularity, increasing its affordability and accessibility. Modern boucle often presents a softer feel, akin to sherpa or shearling, differing from the more woolly tweed of traditional boucle. Boucle's inherent qualities, especially when made from wool, include natural stain resistance and durability, though synthetic versions may lack these specific benefits. The fabric is predominantly found in neutral colors such as whites and beiges, aligning well with minimalist aesthetics and Scandinavian design principles, but colorful options are also available for those seeking more vibrant decor. The versatility of boucle allows for its incorporation into home decor in various forms, from large furniture pieces to smaller accents. For those looking to embrace the boucle trend, several product options are available. The Latitude Run Jacoya modular sectional, for instance, is upholstered in 100% polyester boucle with feather-filled cushions, offering a luxurious yet neutral centerpiece for a living space. For a more subtle introduction, Pottery Barn offers boucle pillows in various colors like ivory, hunter green, and cardinal red, with covers and inserts sold separately for customization. Dining chairs from Zesthouse feature white boucle seats contrasted with rattan backs, providing a textured element to dining areas. Lovesac's bean bags are also available with machine-washable boucle covers in white or black, combining comfort with contemporary style. Smaller furniture items like the DM Furniture boucle ottoman, with its round, rippled shape and hidden storage, or the HomePop cube ottoman in cream, offer functional yet stylish accents. For seating, the Ivy Bronx Dorpha armchair, with its modern shape and boucle upholstery in colors such as white, caramel, green, gray, and beige, presents a sophisticated option. Entryways can be enhanced with the Latitude Run boucle fabric wood bench, available with black or cream boucle cushion rolls. Even window treatments can feature boucle, as seen with Better Homes & Gardens boucle blackout curtains in beige, white, blue, and gray, which add texture while providing light control. Finally, Anthropologie's Cloudy boucle pillows in vibrant red or green demonstrate that boucle can also be used to introduce bold color and texture, offering a blend of acrylic, wool, and polyester for a soft feel. #BoucleFabric #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #TexturedFurniture #ScandinavianDesign #MinimalistAesthetics #Furniture #HomeFurnishings #TextileTrends

The latest week on 'The Block 2024' saw the competing teams unveil their rumpus and office spaces, alongside finishing their hallways and attending the crucial Domain Buyers Jury night. The Buyers Jury event holds significant weight, often predicting the competition's ultimate winner. This year, underdogs Ricky and Haydn secured the win, earning an additional $50,000. Maddy and Charlotte, despite a challenging 'hell week,' successfully delivered their rumpus room and converted their office into a lounge, aiming for a self-contained guest retreat. The judges, Shaynna, Marty, and Darren, praised their simplified styling, effective lighting plan, and custom finishes. They highlighted the transformation of a window into a door as a 'genius' move, creating a dual-income potential for the property. This strategic change echoed the success of previous winners, Tess and Luke, who also incorporated a guest retreat. Courtney and Grant, despite a hallway win and a bonus point, received negative feedback for their office space. Marty criticized its placement on the mezzanine, calling it a misuse of valuable real estate and linking it to their mezzanine ensuite. Shaynna agreed, noting the low ceiling and poor acoustics made the office feel uncomfortable and poorly suited for a private workspace. The rumpus room, while aesthetically pleasing and 'Instagrammable,' was deemed less functional for a long-term inspection by Marty, who suggested converting it into an additional bedroom suite. Ricky and Haydn, previously struggling, celebrated a turning point with their rumpus and games area. Their decision to create an entertainment-focused 'fun house' resonated with the judges. The room featured a race track print with 'Phillip Island' written on the wall, heavy curtains, and a sofa bed, allowing for conversion into an extra guest bedroom. The mezzanine games room, complete with a pool table, Pac-Man machine, Street Fighter II, and a bar cart, was lauded for its fun factor and strong emotional connection, indicating high rental potential. Kylie and Brad faced significant criticism for their monochromatic office/lounge area. The judges expressed confusion over the space's purpose and layout, with Darren stating they 'dropped the ball' and Shaynna remarking it looked as though the couch was simply 'dropped' into the room. The curved leather couch by the glass balustrade was particularly disliked, described as creating a 'peep show' effect. The adjoining lounge space was also deemed disproportionate and uncomfortable, leading to Marty's final assessment of it being the 'most uncomfortable room' of the season. #TheBlock2024 #RumpusRoomDesign #OfficeSpaceDesign #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #RealityTV #HomeDecor #GuestRetreat #EntertainmentRoom