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What’s now and what’s over

By Maria Shirazi
Tue, 01, 18

Want to know what trends will take over homes in 2018? Read on to find out...

interior

Want to know what trends will take over homes in 2018? Read on to find out...

New Year means new trends! Be it fashion or interior, trends play an important role in keeping us updated on what’s hot and what’s not. The fact is, decking up a space can be a frustrating job. Whether you are planning to spruce up your place or buy a new house, you want to incorporate decor trends that not only look timeless but reflect your personality as well. However, the trick to decorating with trends is twofold. First, use them sparsely, and focus on the ones you see yourself adopting for a long time. Second, look ahead to the trends that are on their way up, as opposed to the ones that are dwindling - and your decor will feel fresh for longer.

Want to know which design movements are coming and going? Well, here are some top trends to try, along with a few that are a big NO this year.

What’s in!

Say hello to jewel tones:

We saw a lot of dark, cosy colours last year, and 2018 is all about jewel tones as well. Think emerald green meets sapphire - both shades are said to be especially invigorating. From deep burgundy reds and burnt oranges to rusty terracottas and murky greens, these warmer colours give off a very cosy feel. The best way to incorporate this trend is to go for vivid velvet sofas in jewel tones or you could also take baby steps with a jewel-toned velvet throw pillow instead. Moreover, lilac - a watered-down version of violet (Pantone colour of the year) - is in vogue and gives a snug feeling especially when used in the bedroom.

Metal of the moment - brass:

Whether you love it or hate it, brass is back and better than ever. The aged finish adorns kitchen cabinets and living room furniture and shines bright in the form of serveware and vintage-inspired light fixtures. According to experts, copper has been hugely popular for more than five years but it has reached its peak and brass is now the metallic of the moment.

Curvy styles:

Curves are definitely in. Not only have curves been getting love on the runway, but they are trending as far as furniture is concerned. ‘70s-inspired couches with quirky curves will liven up your living room. Curved sofas are not only current, but are a nice alternative to the L-shaped sectional. They divide a room beautifully and look great from every angle. Also, curvy furniture is a great addition to a rectangular room.

Go the floral way:

When incorporated into furniture in an overt way, flowers are fun and funky. Styled in a casual bohemian way, florals look fresh and appealing. Juxtaposing florals with organic textures and neutral palettes evokes a new kind of elegance that is quirky yet pretty. Experts say that floral prints in bold, contrasting colours will be the ‘it’ thing in 2018, particularly on large billowing fabrics like drapery, as well as chairs and throw pillows. Remember, the key to making it work is moderation. Make sure you have some neutrals and basics to balance out the bold floral.

Monochrome:

Who doesn’t love the classic combination of black and white? Well, it is time to use it in home decor as well. Using black and white in interior design is perhaps a way of offsetting some of the season’s more striking styles. Snag some simple linens or go for white sofas with black cushions. You can even add a black and white rug to make your room trendy.

Of dark finishes:

Earthy tones and dark woods are back. Dark wood is a striking shift away from the blonde woods that have been popular in recent years. An easy way to create impact is by using a larger piece of dark wood furniture, such as a coffee table or a chest of drawer.

Natural accents:

The natural look of decorative objects made of wood and other earthy materials is the new trend that is a rage these days. Hand-turned wooden bowls, concrete vessels, leather drawer pulls and marble lamps can make your room look unique yet classy.

Wabi-Sabi - beauty in imperfection:

Wabi-sabi is the newest lifestyle philosophy you should embrace in 2018. The word wabi-sabi is derived from ancient Japanese philosophy of making peace with the imperfections of your home, as well as the unpredictable nature of life. In home design, this translates to handmade or hand-painted items including rough linens and pottery. Embracing the beauty of imperfection of your home results in a deeply personal and organic aesthetic.

What’s out!

Say bye bye to all-white kitchens:

All-white interiors, kitchens in particular, are on their way out. Kitchens will continue to brighten up, swapping stark white for warm wood tones and new neutrals including cream, blue, and grey.

Open shelves no more:

Bid adieu to open shelving. Something that looks great in photos, but not in real life, is open shelving. Especially in small apartments one doesn’t have that kind of space to just have decor items stacked on top of each other.

Accent walls:

This is one fad is all set to retire. Accent walls were an instant way to make a room look like it was decorated but not anymore. So long, lone wall!

Word art:

2018 is more about expressing in less literal ways. Sure, signs or throw pillows spelling out sentiments such as ‘Home’, ‘Family’, or full quotes seemed like a simple way to create a fun focal point. But the concept has now become overdone, so say goodbye to word art!

— Maria Shirazi