In our previous column entitled “Color Trends for Your Home” we introduced you to the High Point Market in North Carolina – the largest home furnishings trade show in the world – and brought you up to speed with color trend predictions as revealed at this year’s spring show. Today’s column tells the second half of that story – design trends for your home – and is meant to inspire our South Valley friends who are looking for that special something to update their home decor.
An Overview
Current trends are luxurious and sophisticated. Decadent elegance is back with gilded finishes, sumptuous materials and a hint of animal print. Mid-century styles have returned with a “nod to mod” while boldly modern tribal looks feature a variety of ethnic prints and designs. From here we move on to the posh and stylish Hollywood glamour trend and finally end with the comfortable California coastal look. In other words, almost anything goes!
Animal Prints
Hides, whether faux leather or printed fabrics, are more popular today than ever. The most widely visible are zebra prints on rugs, chairs, lamps and pillows. The black and white graphic design of a zebra print is equally at home in a luxurious Hollywood backdrop or on a leather chair at a Texas ranch. Stripes aren’t the only game in town, either. Zebra may steal the show, but cowhide and cheetah prints are supporting actors.
Mid-Century Modern
The mid-century modern theme is still growing. We stroll down memory lane back to the vibrant energy of the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s – an era defined by the inspired artistry of Warhol, Dylan, Hepburn and Givenchy. Mid-century modern sofas tended to have clean-lined single cushions, square track arms and flared wood legs. The spring market showcased this furniture style in cool grays, warm yellows and electric blues and oranges. Fabrics used were linens, beautiful microfibers and “menswear looks.” Mid-century modern was often paired with geometric-patterned pillows.
Tribal Influences
As technology paves the way for an increasingly connected global society, cultural influences are more powerful than ever. We look for tribal themes to foster a sense of community. In tribal themes we see a warmer palette of reds, oranges, pinks and yellows, highlighted with brighter exotic tones. This trend translates to global-inspired patterns in upholstery, rugs and window treatments, and exotic shapes in furniture and accessories. The tribal theme is like paging through an old stack of National Geographic magazines issue after issue. You might discover images from Native Americans, a mountain lodge or travel the globe to far off Morocco. All are part of the global and ethnic inspired patterns seen throughout the market and influencing today’s design trends. Fabric patterns influenced by these themes and used on upholstery, rugs, wall art and bedding are tribal ikats (still very popular), Moroccan-inspired lattice, chevron and tile patterns, hides of all types and colors, horse blankets and leather.
Hollywood Glam
Hollywood glamour is being seen everywhere. Many accessories and high-end furniture show silver and gold leaf on tables, cabinets and mirror frames. Mirrored cabinets and dressers remain appealing and brightly colored lacquered tables, beds and chairs are hitting the market. With this style, everything is plush and over-sized.
California Coastal
It’s interesting how design themes can take on new meaning with a change in the wording. For example, a popular design scheme for beach or lake homes has been “coastal,” “shore” or “cottage.” Recently, this has been updated with a splash of sophistication to “California coastal.” Look for fabric in palettes of sea spray green, ivory and misty blues. Woven wood shades are fantastic here, as well as art and accessories that showcase shells, driftwood and other natural elements.
Final Thoughts … Birds, Maps and Fancy Chairs
Two themes are showing up in many accessories, especially as wall art. One is birds and the other is vintage maps and both had a significant presence at the market this spring. Also, a furniture category that has been identified as a “hot item” is accent chairs. They are showing up all over and every design is more unique than the next. There’s always room for another accent chair.
Now that you are well versed in all of the upcoming design trends, we’d like to make a final comment about personalization and customization. Do you realize that many lines of casegoods (wood furniture) are available in 40 or more paints and stains? Are you aware that you can custom order your sofa with your favorite fabric, leg style and degree of cushion firmness? At Decorating Den Interiors, we can help create your own design trend …. one that fits your personality and lifestyle. Whether you just want to replace your 15-year-old beige sofa with its exact ugly twin or want a new one made with peacock feathers and Hollywood glam, we are here to help.
Pamela Ryalls-Boyd is an interior decorator who lives in Morgan Hill. She is a Decorating Den Interiors business owner and enjoys working together with Janet Cunningham. Reach Pamela at (408) 776-1412, de******@gm***.com or visit www.decdens.com/decdenmh.
