design edit issue 15
DECOR + DESIGN TRENDS
Have you ever wondered where interior designers get their inspiration and ideas?
Last month I was fortunate enough to attend Design + Decor in Melbourne. This is Australia's leading interiors event showcasing the latest interior products and furnishings from Australia, New Zealand and around the world.
What an amazing experience. I heard first hand from one of London's leading interiors trend forecasters, listened to keynote presentations from Australian designers I fan over and saw new season pieces displayed on cleverly designed stands - yes, the interior designer's equivalent of Disneyland!
So what were the four key trends I took away from the show?
1. organic form
As more and more of our daily interactions are digital, we are seeking out interior spaces which evoke a natural environment, organic materials and colours that provide a raw, earthy texture. Wood is a key material - timbers like mango wood and rosewood which are darker and richer than the blonded timbers that have been popular. The Japanese concept of "wabi sabi" - where beauty is found in imperfection - marries with the continuing trend for materials to be reclaimed or recycled. I also learnt about the Japanese technique of "shou shouji ban" where timber is charred and "refined by fire" to preserve it, creating amazing textures and patterns in the process. Overall, shapes are less angular, more organic and curved.
2. jewel tones
There is a definite trend towards richer materials and textures.
- Chestnut colours are predicted to be the new beige - warmer and richer.
- Greens are also becoming more earthy and natural, rather than the leaf green tones of this season.
- Rich burgundy is tipped to be a major colour trend - a dark garnet colour, sumptuous and velvety.
- While there was still lots of deep teal colour, blues are tipped to come darker, sapphire blues - which mix beautifully with the rich red tones and darker woods.
- Copper and brass may have reached saturation - although it still featured heavily at the show. Silver is predicted to be huge - from pale foiled silver to darker anthracite.
3. global emporium
I loved the global eclectic trend I saw - it reminded me of being in one of the amazing bazaars in Turkey. There's a big trend towards hand crafted, ethnic pieces - like creating a merchant's emporium in your own home, bringing together treasures from your travels around the world. Turkish towels and throws, Indian hand woven rugs, Balinese timber furniture, African art and tribal patterns. Rich colours, deep textures, tarnished bronze metallics and a sense of adventure combine for a layered, blended look. One of the standout pieces I saw was lighting made in Africa from recycled glass, processed to create a sea-glass look, then tied individually with copper wire to create the most amazing pendant lights. Wow!
4. palm springs glam
I couldn't help but notice the sleek, highly designed and rather gorgeous Californian cool vibe I saw. There was a definite touch of Palm Springs glam - one of my bucket list places to travel to. Glossy surfaces, lots of lucite, mid-Century influenced designs - with a sleek modern edge.
And do you know those iconic Kodacolour Slim Aarons prints of 1970's socialites and jet setters? I confess to loosing more than a few minutes gazing at a gallery of them. I love the glimpse into the Dolce Vita of the 70's. The images of Palm Springs poolside parties are my definite faves - check out the lace twin set!
Has something caught your eye? Don't hesitate to get in touch - I'd love to help you create a space you love.
Kirsten x
