Design Trends to Watch Out for in 2023

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Looking to update your home’s interior style in 2023? If you’re thinking about sprucing up your home décor, you might be paying attention to what’s in and what’s out. 

Each of the following design trends provides an opportunity for you to explore what décor is most in line with your own style. Trends are a great way to glean inspiration, not necessarily dictate your entire home design. From dark and moody colours to bold marble and curves, learn more about some of the trends that are predicted to dominate 2023.

Moody jewel tones

Interior design is all about creating a certain feeling in a space. One of the quickest ways to do that is through the use of colour. According to HGTV, there are some dark, moody colours trending for 2023 that can create an intimate, cozy feeling, while still maintaining a sense of sophistication. Think rich jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, or chocolate brown. Or go for a classic look with a deep navy. These colours can be used on walls, floors, furniture, accessories, or even the ceiling. They can be paired with lighter, brighter colours or wood tones to create a stunning contrast. If you’re looking to create a space with a bit of drama and intrigue in 2023, consider using dark, moody colours—you won’t be disappointed with the results.

Need colour inspiration? Try Vining Ivy from Glidden—one of the top paint colours for 2023!

Mixing wood tones

Mixed wood tones.

Wood tones are a popular choice in interior design for 2023 according to Joana Rittmayer, associate designer and project manager at Laura Yeager Smith Home & Design—and it’s easy to see why. Wood has a warm, natural quality that can make any space feel more inviting. Plus, there are so many different wood tones to choose from; you can easily find one that fits your style. Do you want a rustic look? A modern vibe? Something in between? There’s a wood for that! 

  • The use of oak in interior design varies from cabinetry to furniture to flooring. Its clean and neutral colour allows it to be used in a variety of interior styles from modern farmhouse to Scandinavian.
  • The classic appearance of cedar lends itself well to furniture and wall cladding. The style can be found in a variety of traditional and classic interiors.
  • The availability of pine makes it a budget-friendly option. Depending on the finishing colour, pine can be used in Scandinavian, rustic, contemporary, and modern-style interiors.
  • Beech wood lends itself well to coastal or modern interiors due to its straight grain and uniform texture. It has a pale creamish colour and a uniform texture.
  • Known for its hardiness and resistance to decay, cherry wood has a very distinctive appearance. Cherry is an ideal choice for interior settings, including balconies, terraces, covered decks, and patios because it resists decay.
  • Generally, walnut wood is dark chocolate brown or pale brown with darker streaks of brown. The sophisticated appearance of walnut is perfect for both traditional and modern furniture and architectural millwork.

And don’t be afraid to mix tones. Try pairing a rich walnut chair with your white oak floors—it’s a great way to make a space feel collected, inviting, and charming.

Luxurious fabrics

Wall Sauce is predicting luxurious-looking fabrics will help create an atmosphere of opulence and refinement in 2023. Silks, velvets, and brocades are all excellent choices for adding a bit of luxury to your home. When using luxurious-looking fabrics in your space, it’s important to remember less is more. A small amount can go a long way! Try a velvet couch, silk throw pillows, or brocade curtains to add elegance to your space. Use luxurious-looking fabrics strategically in your design to make the most impact.

Bold statement stone

Bold slabs of stone such as marble or quartz can make quite a statement, so says designer Hilary Matt. It can be used in a variety of ways, from flooring to countertops, backsplashes, showers, and even wall cladding. Love the look but not the price tag? Start small with a coffee table or fireplace surround—it’s a smaller-scale way to experiment with this trend and add some visual interest to your room.

Did you know you can “hack” your way to marble countertops? Check you these 5 Design Hacks to Fake It Till You Make It!

Art deco

For those who wish they could live in The Great Gatsby, art deco is making a comeback! Art deco is a popular choice for many interiors due to its unique and eye-catching style. This design movement originated in the 1920s and is characterized by its use of geometric shapes, bold colours, zigzag patterns, metallic finishes, and sleek lines. When used in interior design, art deco can add a touch of glamour and drama to any space. Experiment with art deco in a primary bedroom by using geometric wallpaper or in a walk-in closet with a wall of gold-trimmed mirrors. Looking for something that isn’t so permanent? Add art deco inspired accessories such as symmetrical scones, starburst coffee table, or an animal print runner to your space.

Do some DIY French Art Deco Stencilling as a fun weekend activity! 

Functionally designed mudrooms

Mudroom.

Mudrooms are no longer just a place to hang your coat and store your boots. Increasingly, homeowners are using this space to make a style statement according to designer Amy Youngblood. One of the most critical aspects of designing a mudroom is storage. You’ll need a place for all that outdoor gear, so include plenty of hooks, shelves, and baskets to keep the clutter away. Another important consideration is flooring. Mudrooms get a lot of abuse from dirty shoes, boots and paws, so it’s important to choose a durable material that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. By adding a few key pieces and paying attention to the overall design, you can create a mudroom that is stylish, functional, and totally on-trend for 2023.

Intentional rooms and spaces

Interior designer and HGTV star Shay Holland says while open-concept floor plans have been popular for many years, people are now looking for more privacy or rooms dedicated for a certain purpose. Despite open floorplan living allowing for plenty of flexibility, family members often share the communal area for different reasons at the same time. Have you ever taken a conference call in your living room while your family watches TV? It’s less than ideal. In 2023, expect to see a greater number of intentional spaces designed for specific needs like home offices, wellness rooms, and craft rooms.

Other trends of note for 2023

  • Home offices: the work-from-home environment is still prominent, which means many people need a dedicated space for focus and privacy.
  • Double kitchen islands: larger or double kitchen islands will become a kitchen must-have for those looking to host and entertain more in the new year.
  • Coastal grandma: this design trend from 2022 will continue into 2023, bringing with it comfort and coziness. It focuses on pastoral patterns and rural artwork to add a poetic touch to interiors. Think any movie set designed by Nancy Meyers.
  • Alcoves and niches: for centuries, niches and alcoves have been used to showcase artwork, especially sculptures. Nowadays, they add space-saving interest or a place to highlight décor or furniture.
  • Curves: modernist curves are an excellent alternative to straight lines in your home. Try adding round pillows and accessories, as well as curved upholstery. Arches and curved architecture will also be popular in 2023.
  • Thrifting and upcycling: what’s old, is new! Head to a consignment store or antique market to pick up a unique piece to refinish.

Your home should reflect your personal style, and that can include incorporating  current trends. Reach for those dark and moody colours, patterns, and textures. Think outside the box when it comes to furniture and accessories. Be fearless when it comes to mixing and matching different styles. And most importantly, have fun with it!

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