The Top Interior Design Trends to Watch, According to Experts
Whether you're looking to refresh your living room or are looking for a new color for the kitchen, there's something here for you.
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Every year, professional designers and home editors (myself included) get a kick out of predicting the design trends people will welcome into their homes. Even if a specific movement isn't suitable for you (a maximalist aesthetic isn't for everyone, right?), it's always fun to discover the color palettes, furniture choices and other decor elements that are all the rage at the moment. In other words, the top interior design trends for 2022 are worth considering.
In 2021, people focused on pieces that mix style and practicality — think self-cleaning bidets for a more luxurious bathroom, for example. But this year, everything from bringing the outdoors in to experimenting with pattern and texture, and finding design inspiration from past decades are of interest.
We connected with a group of dynamic interior designers to find out the top interior design trends that they've come across so this year as well as what to expect in the coming months. Use their thoughtful insights to upgrade your home, whether it's a standout kitchen or calming bedroom, or simply enjoy thinking about your dream abode. There's fun in that, too!
Home Libraries
"I've noticed that people have been investing in home libraries for their families. They are starting to grasp that not everything has to be on a laptop, smartphone or tablet." — Linda Hayslett, LH.Designs
Pattern Play
“We are introducing more patterns in our projects and our clients are embracing it. We don’t suggest going overboard with overmixing large, bold prints or overusing prints on all the fabrics, walls and rugs. Instead, mixing a patterned wallpaper with a stone, wood or brick floor that has a shape and form, like herringbone or chevron, is a great way to play with pattern without looking chaotic.” — Maria Viola-Kuttruff, Viola Interior Design
Texture
"Textures are going to be utilized far outside of furniture and rugs this year. Tongue and groove boards on the ceiling add to architectural interest while injecting an earthy texture. Curtains can be used to filter light beautifully and add a softness to the room. Even lighting can provide texture to rooms, depending on the material used." — Joshua Smith, Joshua Smith Inc.
Natural Elements
"An emphasis on natural elements and color palettes will continue to grow in 2022. Warm beiges, browns, blues and greens will provide comfort in homes with a calming presence and a look that is easy on the eyes. Furniture with blonde wood will help keep spaces looking light and airy." — Lindye Galloway, Lindye Galloway Studio + Shop
1980s Decor Inspiration
"The 80’s are calling: they want their mauve gray geometrics back in fashion! That layer of decades found in the vintage store wants to be able to have a coordinating fabric rug or wallcovering. — Kellie Burke, Kellie Burke Interiors
Biophilic Design
"After over a year of being shut inside, there has been — and will continue to be — a focus on regaining our connection to the natural world through the use of biophilic design principles, meaning there will be an emphasis on creating calming environments with natural lighting and ventilation, incorporating plants and creating a visual connection with nature." — Amanda Thompson, Aline Studio
Bold Patterns and Colors
"I expect to see a lot of bold color and pattern reminiscent of the 60’s and 70’s, and green in all shades as we continue to bring the outdoors in. I am especially fond of the more muted shades of green such as Sherwin-Williams’ Evergreen Fog, as seen in my own bedroom." — Beth Diana Smith, Beth Diana Smith Interior Design
Traditional Details
"In 2022, we are seeing traditional details making a big comeback. With so much change around the world over the past few years, it’s no surprise that more and more people are craving a sense of comfort, timelessness or even a bit of nostalgia in their homes. From pattern mixing, skirted or flanged furniture, and the incorporation of antique pieces, this new year is all about honoring our roots. And we couldn’t be happier about it!” — Bria Hammel, Bria Hammel Interiors
3D Art
"We will see a push towards 3D art in 2022. People are looking to add whimsey, intrigue and life to flat walls as we continue to spend more time in our homes. Any art that pops right off the wall, and can be configured in different ways, is going to be very popular this year." — Lauren Behfarin, Lauren Behfarin Design
Sustainability
"Sustainability has become a major issue for everyone, as it should. Looking into the sustainability of everything is a must and it is really excellent that so many designers are trying to learn what the best materials are to use for the long-term health of our eco-system. Luckily, there is a lot to choose from!" — Robert and Cortney Novogratz for The Shade Store
Mindful Spaces
"Next year will bring about a deeper awareness of our spaces and the impact they have on our emotions and wellbeing. We will see more spaces that have personality and personal ties to interests, hobbies and pleasures of its owner." — Marie Cloud, Indigo Pruitt Design Studio
1970s Decor Inspiration
"Seventies decor and colors are back. We will be seeing more terracotta, sage and mustard colors as well as mid-century furniture trademarks — peg legs on cabinets and tables, teak wood tones and highly textured fabrics." — Malka Helft, Think Chic Interiors
Homework Rooms
"Children continue to drive design spaces and homework is not going away. As the world turns, people may continue to opt out of full classroom settings and opt in for more private spaces and create 'mini corporate offices' for their smallest bosses. These rooms are equipped with interactive smart boards, high-speed WiFi and plenty of plug-in outlets. Homework rooms can also be repurposed later for a college student's startup headquarters or an adult's home office." — Georgia Zikas
A Return to Tradition
"Expect English roll arm sofas, wingbacks, simple dining tables based on antique styles and pieces with detail and some history. For materials, we're going to see a lot more natural materials become popular again. Marble, real wood, linens, mohair — things that feel more organic and nice to the touch." — Erin Gates
Multifunctional Spaces
"People are starting to understand that they can live with less, especially after the past year. People will start to downsize, or stay in their current homes and become creative with how their spaces can be multifunctional. For example: having your living room be part office. Or office-workout rooms." — Amy Leferink, Interior Impressions
Curved Furnishings
"Furnishings of white oak with curves bring a fresh and soft wavy feeling. From curved corners within walls and cabinets to curved backs of sofas, dining chairs and arched cabinets, the angular line of furnishing is softening." — Michelle Harrison-McAllister
Lasting Style
"The trend for 2022 is a return to lasting style. We are seeing the effects of our 'buy it and throw it away' consumerism on our planet, and I think people will realize that developing a personal, lasting style is not only beautiful and unique, but good for the environment as well." — Kate Patterson, Perlmutter Freiwald
Bringing the Outdoors In
"More people are enhancing their outdoor living spaces, which means stylish outdoor furniture. I see more intentionally-designed outdoor living spaces that don't sacrifice on style and expand the families' living and entertaining space in the home." — Mimi Meacham, Marian Louise Designs
Colorful Window Treatments
"In 2022, we’re going to see a lot of color and patterns, especially within window treatments. They play a key role within design because they are the jewelry of the room and can really make an impact. Whether it be drapery, shades or sheers, patterns with a burst of two to three colors will play a strong role in design next year." — Martyn Lawrence Bullard for The Shade Store
Pantone's 2022 Color of the Year: Very Peri
Pantone recently named "Very Peri" as its 2022 Color of the Year. A bold blue with a violet-red undertone, you can expect to see the shade show up in everything from furniture to decor.
"Very Peri displays a spritely, joyous attitude and dynamic presence that encourages courageous creativity and imaginative expression." — Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute
Monique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand's home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, "What's in My Cart."
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