Knee-deep in the current silly season, few of us have time to think about next year’s interior design trends or even buying and selling property - even though the Christmas period is actually an optimum time to lock down a new home or investment property. But as soon as Christmas is over and the January sales kick in, many of us start to think about updates and renovations to our homes.

Good interior design is not rocket science

Our home is our castle, and successful interior design has a positive impact on every aspect of our lives, from functionality to our health. Furthermore, style and comfort are also key components of our property's longer-term selling potential.

Good design is not rocket science, it just means keeping abreast of the latest trends, most of which – fortunately, for our bank balances – evolve at a slower pace than fashion trends.

Fortunately, interior design trends evolve more slowly than fashion trends

Historically, trends have been influenced by our developing culture and changing priorities in response to life-changing events such as the pandemic and climate change. But obviously, in modern times, advances in technology also play a major role. 

Trends such as minimalism and sustainability, for example, are a direct response to COVID, the risks to our environment, and our desire to live a less stressful, healthier lifestyle.

So, which trends will be HOT next year and why:

1. Tech-integrated spaces – Not long ago, reclining chairs were seen as innovative and now we have smart-home integration, interactive surfaces, and furniture that accommodates high-tech gadgetry. However, certain design experts are predicting some pushback, and House Beautiful suggests a return to “dumb homes” by many renovators.
2. Mindful design – Perhaps the biggest trend is to design more mindfully and this is apparent in the popularity of minimalist and sustainable practices as seen in the Japanese trend, Wabi Sabi. Described by Anne Walther as "The elusive beauty of imperfection", our deeper understanding of our place and personal impact on the world has elevated our desire to simplify our existence to protect it and our health. This year, we have written extensively about sustainable design and the often-minor adjustments – such as good insulation and the use of reclaimed, recycled or repurposed materials - that make such a significant difference to the health of the environment.
3. Cultural fusion – “By embracing cultural fusion, designers can create unique interiors that tell stories, evoke emotions, and foster a sense of connection and appreciation for diverse cultures,” writes Think Interior. Travel and technology have given us greater access to the world and improved our awareness of the history of other cultures. This new knowledge has led to an increasing desire to implement global influences in design. Fusing cultures celebrates diversity and shines a light on  important design contributions from other cultures, many of which have gone unrecognised until now. Aboriginal artworks, rugs from the Middle East, and tribal artifacts and textiles all look set to stay for a while.
4. Bold colour, pattern, and texture – Many experts are predicting greater experimentation with colour, pattern, and texture next year and our ongoing love affair with Maximalism is indicative of the trend. Bold colour suits the terraced homes in our cities which have smaller rooms and less natural light, and these elements of design add more depth to neutral coastal homes. Textured upholstery fabrics like velvet or boucle, natural coastal wall hangings and rugs add layers to our schemes and murals are also having a moment.
5. Multi-functional spaces – The need for more flexibility in our homes became crucial during the pandemic lockdowns when many employees were forced to work from home. This has led to some truly innovative space-planning and furniture design, and the standing desk is a modern invention that ticks both design and health boxes. The housing crisis is increasing the popularity of studios and granny flats and we are seeing a re-emergence of the wall bed and futons.
6. Biophilic design – “Biophilic design focuses on those aspects of the natural world that have contributed to human health and productivity in the age-old struggle to be fit and survive,” writes Metropolis Mag. Our desire to live in a more harmonious environment has led to the greater integration of nature into our homes. Plants and trees, natural light, natural materials, and water features are all great examples of biophilic design.
7. Mixing finishes – Mixing different types of stone is a new trend that is a nod to sustainability and nature. Natural stones add more colour and texture to our schemes and we willl notice marble make a comeback and the ongoing popularity of Quartzite, limestone, sandstone and granite 
8. More individual, personalised spaces – "In line with the uptick we've seen in antique and vintage shopping, homeowners have the desire to create a connection to their past,” writes House Beautiful. Our love affair with vintage styling and antique furniture is nothing new and fusing old with new is an element of Maximalism, Boho and sustainable schemes.
9. Moodier, earthier colour palates - “Beige and brown are on an upswing along with very muddy colours that have an 18th-century calmness to them—think earthy colours with less vibrancy and more richness,” confirms Elle Décor. In line with our greater alignment with the natural world, forest green looks here to stay, and we’ll also be enjoying the return of blue to our schemes.
10. Eclectic styling – Statement pieces reveal our true persona. The quirkiness of a traditional artwork or a vintage chair in a modern scheme help tell our story and add energy to a space. “Eclectic styling tells a fresh and individual story in a home – it’s playful and energising,” writes Houzz. Playing with colour, shapes and historical periods adds depth and character and creates an individualised interior.
11. Geometric shapes – We are seeking to create interest and visuals that remind us of who we are and where we’ve come from. The careful use of different shapes in floors, walls, rugs or fabrics soften and inspire thought.

Evidently, the trends that will be hot in 2024 demonstrate our desire to stamp more of our own personalities on our interiors. We want to make a statement about what’s important to us, whether that’s our environmental concerns, our desire to acknowledge our history and culture, or simply to celebrate life through the use of vivid colours and textiles. 

In 2024, our homes will reflect more than a blind adherence to fashion, they will make a bold statement about who we are

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