5 Interior Design Trends And What I Think Of Them

Ah, trends.  They come and go each year, and its hard to know which ones will stick around and are worth investing in.

Here are some of the trends for 2016-17 and what I think of them:

1. Using Outdoor Fabric Indoors:   This one I love and have used in many of my designs!  Outdoor fabrics are so durable and stain resistant, they are great for young families who are concerned about using light colors. Outdoor fabrics now look like indoor fabrics… there are linens, cottons, even velvet! I used a Perennials outdoor linen on these slipcovers below. Upholstered dining room chairs take a beating. It’s a great place to switch to waterproof fabrics.

2. Not-So-White Kitchens:  White kitchens are definitely in, but I think a kitchen that is too white can look sterile.  I encourage my clients to add a pop of color and a mix of textures to add layers and interest in my designs. If a white or very light kitchen is on your must-haves list, add color with furnishings and add dimension with wood or natural accents. This eliminates the coldness and brightness of a pure white canvas.

3. Modern Mixed With Traditional:   This is a trend?  Well this pretty much defines much of my work, so it is definitely one I love. I have lived in Connecticut, New York City and Palm Beach and I love mixing edgy with traditional touches. In this bedroom I mixed a modern headboard with traditional antique chairs. The hotel bedding is more traditional and the light fixture is a contemporary take on a crystal chandelier. The fireplace on the other side of the room is definitely a modern contrast to the rest of the room.

4. Locally Sourced Accessories: With the popularity of sites like Etsy (which I LOVE) “handmade” objects are more and more on trend. To a creative person, it’s inspiring. It’s also a way for me to give my clients homes a more “personal” touch with one-of-a-kind elements. Mixing antique items with high end newly purchased elements, found things, and some of the client’s personal pieces is how I accessorized this home.

5. Re-purposing Timbers & Finishes: A re-purposed farm table will never go out of style. But I am a Connecticut girl, University of Connecticut has the biggest and most sought after Agriculture program on the east coast. I hope that the re-purposing trend never ends. We need to savor what’s around us.

Check out my post on the uber popular trend of gold accents in fashion and home design.

Happy trending!