The world of interior design is constantly changing, reflecting shifts in cultural trends, technological advancements, and individual tastes. In 2024 are exciting trends that present new ways to achieve beautiful and functional spaces. Before these trends are explored, it is important to understand the difference between two words wrongly used as synonyms in the design industry – Interior Design and Interior Decoration. While interior design and interior decoration improve the visual appeal of a space, interior design is the physical planning of a space to achieve functional and pleasing spaces and interior decoration simply enhances the aesthetic appeal of a space.
Better put by Interior Design Schools: “Interior design, often confused with interior decoration, involves the organisation and coordination of all aspects of the interior of a space, from paints and finishes to cabinetry, lighting, ventilation and windows, plumbing and fixtures, and creation and placement of non-load-bearing walls.”
On the other hand, interior decoration by Forbes Home is the “outfitting of a space with aesthetically pleasing elements such as furniture, wall coverings, accessories, rugs and more.”
The significance of interior design cannot be overemphasized as it influences the quality of each person’s life. When done right, it perfectly expresses one’s personal or brand style, maximizes functionality and improves wellbeing. Coupled with valuable tips, here are some emerging trends to look out for in 2024
- Sustainable and Eco-friendly Materials
Looking at the global concern of climate instability, people have seen good reasons to opt for designs that inhabit sustainable and upcycled materials. Materials like wood, bamboo, rattan, brick, recycled steel, and recycled textile materials will be making homes in many people’s spaces this year.
- Diverse Colour Palettes
In the prior year, there was a surge in the use of warm, and earthy neutrals. While that will continue, there will be more use of colours that reflect people’s personalities and energy. These colours will explore shades and tints from the cool palette to the warm side, all in non-overwhelming doses.
An important tip would be not just to use colours you like but to use colours that improve the atmosphere and appearance of each space. Different colours evoke different feelings and to use the right colour for a space, one must first know what psychological role they want that space to play.
- Biophilic Design
This smart concept encourages building users to interact with nature through natural building materials, natural elements, fluid shapes and expansive exterior views. Humans have an inherent liking for the natural environment and incorporating natural elements into indoor spaces improves users’ health, creativity, well-being, and productivity.
Implementing this design approach will look like bringing in natural light, creating sufficient views of nature with windows, using natural ventilation, incorporating natural materials, using organic shapes, planting trees indoors and using nature-inspired colours.
- Multifunctional Spaces
Multifunctional spaces are more than just a trend; they are a strategic solution to the challenges of modern living, especially in smaller homes or urban environments. This design approach maximizes space and adaptability, catering to our ever-changing needs and lifestyles.
Here is how it can be incorporated; invest in versatile furniture – for example, sofas with hidden storage. Another way is to have open floor plans with spaces that serve multiple functions. A single space serving as both kitchen and dining is a great example of this.
- Statement Pieces
Statement pieces capture interest, and add vibrancy and character to spaces. Amongst many others, these pieces can come in the form of sculptural lighting, sculptures, bespoke artwork, vibrant furniture, vintage finds, and even statement walls! They mostly involve a play with shape, colour, and both. One tip worthy of note is that statement pieces should be used in moderation to avoid creating too many focal points and an eyesore.
- Fluid Geometry
Gone are the days of rigid lines and sharp corners. Interior design is taking a graceful turn towards fluid geometry, a trend that embraces soft curves, organic shapes, and seamless transitions. It’s a celebration of nature’s fluidity, creating spaces that feel dynamic, inviting, and effortlessly connected. This trend creates spaces that are not only beautiful but also feel organic, adaptable, and inspiring. Curvy furniture, arched doorways and windows, and sculptural lighting are authentic ways to embrace fluid geometry in space.
- Texture Trends
The texture trend in interior design involves incorporating various tactile elements and surface finishes to add depth, visual interest, and a sensory experience to interior spaces. Textures play a crucial role in creating a multi-dimensional and inviting environment, thereby enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of a room. The world of texture and material is dynamic and mostly involves the use of contrast like smooth-rough surfaces, matte-glossy finishes, natural-synthetic elements, soft-hard textures, and many more.
- Technology Innovation
Technology, now an integral part of our lives, extends its influence to the interior design world. The seamless integration of cutting-edge technology into space design enhances convenience, and security, and changes how these spaces are interacted with. Smart thermostats, integrated speakers, smart lighting solutions, and automated door locks are some of the technologies that elevate our living experience today.
- Balance in Maximalism and Minimalism
In 2024, interior design will not be confined to a singular style. Instead, it will embrace a harmonious blend of maximalism and minimalism, offering flexibility for individuals to curate spaces that resonate with their preferences. Both design styles have their useful impact and a tip for creating a delicate balance resembles incorporating bold elements in a minimalist space and introducing moments of simplicity in a maximalist space.
The Overarching Theme
The interior design outlook of 2024 features creativity, adaptability, practicality and sustainability. Whether you are a design enthusiast looking to refresh your home or a professional in the field, these trends provide a roadmap for creating spaces that are not just beautiful but also serve a purpose and are mindful of the world. Embrace these trends and embark on a journey of transforming living spaces into havens that reflect the essence of our being and aspirations.
References
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