2017 is a year of several changes and new beginnings, as we explore the new Pantone of The Year, and the direction that architecture takes, incorporating sustainable materials and smart technology. We have compiled some of the most interesting décor trends from around the world for you to get an idea of what the future holds for interior designing.
BACK TO NATURE
2017 seems to be the year of returning to nature, as the Pantone for the year was announced to be “Greenery”. And we find the trend catching up in interior décor in engaging and vitalizing ways. Greenery soothes the ambience, and works really well with warm wood tones and soft lighting. Tip: Greenery is a colour best used to highlight, and not overpower. Pair it with white or pastels to suffuse the overall look with a crisp warmth.
However, what adds the charm of nature are the materials. Natural materials like terracotta, cork and clay are irresistible, as the well-researched practice of using these materials dates back to ancient times, and adds gravity to any home. Terracotta, on one hand, cools the house down, and adds the perfect earthy touch to the coziness of a home. On the other hand, the iron-rich terracotta brings to mind tropical cultures like the Mediterranean and Spanish, depending on how it is incorporated into the décor. Mostly, it is used as it is, but it can also be glazed to make it fit a more modern décor.
Cork, one of the most versatile and ecologically beneficial materials, is fast becoming a favourite with several interior designers as they bank on its green aspects (sustainability and renewability) and its raw, timeless appeal.
To those not familiar with interior décor, clay has proven its worth not just to accessorize a home space, but to add character in the form of well-designed walls. Apart from that, clay is cheap, durable and porous, allowing for a natural temperature regulation.
EMBRACE THE FUTURE
With the advent of the Smart Age, every aspect of our lives is being integrated with each other to form smarter, sleeker and extremely efficient alternatives. Minimalism is the name of the game, and modernists who look to reflect this in their homes have a great year ahead.
Of the many modern decor trends, voice activated assistants are the biggest innovation of the decade. After Google Home, every major tech giant is jumping on the bandwagon to usher in the first stages of automating homes, as other fixtures and functions of the house are being designed for integration into the voice assistant.
Metal has always stood for the future in all its avatars, from burnished to brushed. The latest trend deviates from the chrome to black stainless metal, which can be the entire theme of your home, or be restricted to just a home system cabinet.
In this wave of modernism, even kitchens have participated liberally, as the concept of hardworking kitchen storage walls has been introduced. The idea is to clear more room in the kitchen by confining all storage to a single, smart wall cupboard. Another practice catching on is the incorporation of counter-depth fridges, which clear up space, and add a stream-lining effect to the overall look of the kitchen.