Lori Weitzner shares her forecast on the colours, patterns, textures and materials you're bound to see this year

Finally, the neutral greens are getting their time in the sun! With hints of grey, brown and gold (but not yellow), the greens are the new neutrals to follow. Easy to pair with many colours, these shades are calming and rooted in nature. They can swing in traditional and modern environments. They are easy backdrops and can be the main focal point for interiors. Try them in darker and lighter tones for different effects. Colours outside the green family tend to cast the soothing shade as a neutraliser without giving brighter tones a grimy appearance. 

Pink has been a "no-go" for many years. Once thought to be too sweet, too feminine, it has evolved into an important colour that makes a lot of noise in a powerful yet still feminine way. It can be striking when mixed with muted pink shades of rose, nude, ice pink, blush and peach. Or it can be paired with vibrant tones to evoke cheer. 

The more subdued spectrum of this alluring palette is definitely here to stay. Nude and blush tones are the more of the "new neutrals". They are modern, without sacrificing warmth — which is what many people long for in their personal space. 

With the market's fixation on high-performance fabrics (in both mid-range and high-end collections), clients are on the hunt for materials that meet extra qualities apart from just a luxurious look and feel. People want to bring outdoor fabrics into their living areas and other interior spaces, and as a result, yarns, weaves and pile fabrics with sumptuous textures and finishes are gaining popularity. Velvets that can be cleaned with bleach are also ideal as they can avoid permanent damage — even when one spills red wine all over it.