Although interior and design trends don’t change quite as quickly as fashion, strong annual themes tend to stake their claim, saturating the market in a matter of months. Remember 2015’s Scandinavian obsession or chevron prints? And don’t forget last year’s copper and rose gold, which were all the rage but are set to be replaced by a more industrial aesthetic with black steel and burnished metals.
Image courtesy of BoConcept
Safe and Sound
While most of us enjoy the convenience that the latest technology and innovations bring, a desire to have spaces devoid of digital distraction has grown stronger than ever. "We are seeking more raw materials, which focus on a more grounded approach to design and offer a digital detox from the outside world," says Sue Chiu, "concepter" at BoConcept Hong Kong. "A more laid-back approach with organic patterns will be a big drive for 2017." Expect to see more cocooning nooks and spots to escape to in the home.
Image courtesy of Koket | Press Loft
Greenery
Global colour authority Pantone’s Colour of the Year for 2017 is Greenery, a fresh and zesty yellow-green shade that evokes the anticipation, aspiration and vitality of the first days of spring. "Greenery bursts forth in 2017 to provide us with the hope we collectively yearn for amid a complex social and political landscape. Satisfying our growing desire to rejuvenate, revitalise and unite, Greenery symbolises the reconnection we seek with nature, one another and a larger purpose," says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute.
Image courtesy of Alexandra de Garidel
Bold, Bright World
The trend of grey and monochromatic-themed interiors seems to be over, as the quest for bright, lively hues and printed patterns takes over everything from the walls to the furniture. Renowned interior designer Alexandra de Garidel explains that 2017’s trends will be driven by dreams, love and colourful fantasy. "The world is at a point of uncertainty and we want to make our homes a refuge, a safe haven that makes us feel happy – this is where the power of a well-designed space comes in," she says. "A minimalist aesthetic is not desirable for the majority anymore, paving the way for rich, warmly decorated spaces."
Driven by Knowledge
Consumers are looking for organic, natural and eco-friendly items that are good for the body and the environment. Interior trends are also moving away from the throwaway culture; for example, many are renewing their existing furniture with a coat of paint. Joakim Cimmerbeck, the founder of environmentally friendly paint company eicó, says we will see smarter decorative products on the market. "For example, we are working on a painted MDF that will be able to replace heavy, costly roof tile," he says. "This will enable total freedom in regards to the colour and shape of your tiles. It will also reduce the weight, which will reduce the costs in all steps of the product life."
Image courtesy of Marcin Rusak
All Night Long
As our lives grow increasingly busy, we have developed a preoccupation with night-time living. Lisa White, head of lifestyle and interiors at WGSN, says: "This trend goes in two directions: going out and celebrating all night, but also focusing on the importance of sleep." Of the former, she explains, "We will see opulent, festive fabrics – like velvets and satins in dark, jewel-like tones such as ruby, sapphire, emerald and topaz." And when it comes time to count those sheep, consumers are expected to splurge on soft lighting, natural fabrics and quality mattresses.
Image courtesy of Dedon
Adaptive Environment
With a strong desire for customisation, items that adapt to our ever-evolving lifestyles will be the modus operandi. "Furniture can help make our homes answer our changing needs," explains Victoria Redshaw, founder and lead futurist at UK forecasting agency Scarlet Opus. "Modular qualities are important and this also links to customisation – basically, allowing the end consumer to be part of the design process after they have made their purchase." An example is Dedon’s first fully upholstered collection, Brixx by Lorenza Bozzoli, a system of rectangular modules that offers versatility and 360-degree functionality.
Image courtesy of Layer Design
Living the Good Life
Nowadays, we value memorable experiences more than accumulating items. That isn’t to say products are dead – just that they need to up the ante to set themselves apart. "Product design becomes even more important for people to want to buy an item," says Lisa. "It can’t just be good design, either; it also has to be part of an experience – if possible, one for the greater good. Waste materials like denimite will be elevated into re ned, new materials that are as beautiful as they are ecological – the material will definitely be the message."
Printed by Design
If 3D printing brings to mind superfluous items in brightly coloured plastic, think again. Many brands, such as US designer Joe Doucet’s new project OTHR, are increasingly presenting ecologically sustainable design objects in 3D-printed steel and porcelain. "Most people are unaware just how far 3D printing has progressed in the past few years," says Joe. "At OTHR, we use these latest advances to bring objects to life from the world’s best designers. Our objects are only digital information until one purchases them, at which point they are printed, hand-finished and delivered. It disrupts the supply chain and all of the negative environmental consequences of traditional manufacturing. Each of the steps we eliminate vastly reduces the environmental impact – and we see that as truly good design."
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