It’s the start of a new year, and that means it’s time to look at some new design ideas for your home. Some of the 2023 trends are new and some are just an evolution of trends from the past year or two.
First, color is in. The last couple of years have seen the resurgence of earth tones, as opposed to the grays and cool colors that dominated the 2010s. Now, design experts are predicting more desert tones, specifically. Think colors like browns, tans, and muted reds, pinks, and oranges. This is definitely evident in Sherwin Williams 2023 Color of the Year, called Redend Point, a dusty muted pink with brown undertones. The other color trend that you’ll see a lot in design magazines are jewel tones. These are rich aquas, greens, purples, and blues. When you anchor the rest of the room with neutral colors, these tones work great as an accent, such as on a sofa, a backsplash, drapes, or bed linens, etc. Or for those with more bold taste, you can also incorporate these on your wall to create a moody space. The overarching theme of these predicted color trends is a move away from grays and whites to bring in more warmth and vitality.
The next trend you’ll see in design magazines and stores this year is texture. There are so many ways to add texture to your home which will help bring in more depth and interest. In a kitchen or bathroom, tile is a great way to introduce texture. There are so many tile options out there, with finishes that mimic concrete, stone, marble, even fabrics and wallpaper. For bathrooms and kitchen backsplashes alike, zellige tile has been growing rapidly in popularity. It is created to look like ancient tile with a hand-formed appearance and beautiful color variation. It adds depth and interest to a space without being overwhelming. Another great way to bring in texture is through upholstery, with materials like velvet, leather, boucle, or tweed. It can be done in simple ways; for instance, if you already have a leather sofa that you love, add a textured throw blanket and velvet throw pillows over a wool rug for a layered look.
In both home construction and furniture design, curves are in. Curved staircases, arched doorways or arched accents have become very popular again. These can be done in both a traditional and modern way, and help break up the sharp lines and angles of most homes. In furniture, you’ll see more curved chairs and sofas, not just in the overall shape, but also in details like the arms and legs.
One peek at design pages on Instagram and you’ll see that statement kitchens are in right now. That doesn’t mean bright red cabinets, but rather warm, rich wood tones, jewel tone islands, natural marble or wood countertops. Things that are still classic but a move away from the all-white, sometimes sterile, look. Don’t get me wrong, I love a classic white kitchen, but mix it up a little by adding a beautiful natural stone top, wood island or accent, or as mentioned above, an interesting tile backsplash. These touches will help your space feel more personalized.
Mixed materials are also in, as they have been for a little while now. I know I’ve mentioned mixed metals in the past, which still work great when done the right way. But this also means mixing and matching furniture, bringing together old and new. This really will help your home feel like a carefully curated space. Light and dark are a great mix, as well. Dark furniture against light walls, or vice versa, works great in a living room, dining room, or bedroom. It’s really all about balance. Mixing and matching also goes along with the texture trend mentioned above. In the end, you don’t want your home to look like everything came from the same showroom floor. You want it to look carefully selected and tailored.
As I always mention, trends come and go, so it’s important not to overdo it. Pick the ones that make sense for your style and lifestyle and incorporate them in different ways throughout your home. It could be something as simple as bringing in color in the form of new bed linens or curtains or maybe your home feels tired and ready for a major overhaul. Whatever the case, do what makes sense for you and what you will enjoy. And here’s to a happy and healthy 2023!
Photo: courtesy Tracy Tesmer Design/Remodeling