An example of the mixed patterns trend via Elle Decor.
At the start of every new year, the great minds of fashion and interior design come up with a list of the trends that we’ll be seeing everywhere from the catwalk and design tradeshows to our client’s vision boards.
As you know if you’re a regular reader of this blog, I don’t necessarily buy into the “trend” hullabaloo. Instead, I believe great design comes from using styles, colors and pieces that the client is drawn to and loves – regardless of whether or not it’s “on trend.”
That said, I wouldn’t be doing my job as an interior designer if I didn’t at least know what the trends are for the current year and season. Plus, I enjoy finding ways to incorporate the latest and greatest into the designs my clients already love.
One trend that’s generating a lot of buzz for 2017 is mixed patterns. I read that this trend was first spotted at New York Fashion Week in the fall of last year. (The catwalk is usually the predecessor to trends in home décor.)
Honestly, anybody who loves bohemian or shabby chic style has been mixing patterns for years. The trend for 2017 is just a tad more extreme. They’re talking about mixing patterns with complete abandon! Two types of floral patterns, stripes, polka dots – go crazy!
Obviously, if you ask me, this still has to be done carefully to avoid looking like utter chaos. But mixed patterns is definitely a trend I can get behind.
Another trend that I don’t think is necessarily “new” for 2017 is faux finishes. There was a time when everything had to be real – wood flooring, for instance. But now, the trend is shifting toward the more budget-friendly and reliable faux product.
Faux wood ceiling beams don’t bow like real wood, and faux wood floors are much, much easier to maintain than real wood. Engineered quartz countertops can withstand heat better than marble, and faux leather furniture and faux fur rugs are cheaper and cruelty free.
In the color department, navy and gray are still popular. Navy is being touted as “the new black” because it pairs well with almost every other color. Gray is a great everywhere color, but this year the tones are skewing a little darker than in previous years.
Experts say our desire to connect with nature means we’ll be seeing lots of green this year. Via Amara.
We’ll be seeing lots of green this year too, thanks to the Pantone Color of the Year – Greenery.
When it comes to accessories and furniture, the experts say we’ll be seeing a shift to artisanal over DIY.
After years of the quick, easy and affordable DIY landscape, people are starting to appreciate and long for the American craftsmanship we once embraced. Like the experts, I anticipate that well-made, hand-crafted furniture and accessories will be sought after and purchased more frequently.
Like generations before, today’s homeowners want to invest in quality pieces of furniture. We already see more skilled and talented artisans in fields like glassblowing and woodworking creating these types of pieces.
In fabrics, the 2017 trend leans toward cheerful motifs with bright, colorful prints in tropical themes and even butterflies! I’m not sure every client will embrace tropical patterns and butterflies in the living room, but there will certainly be some who will!
Other trends I’ve seen are focused on conserving energy and space, such as rooms and appliances that fold up and smart home features. These types of trends are all moving us toward more efficiency in our spaces.
Whether or not you like any of the trends for 2017, your home design will always be in style – your style!
Would you embrace any of these trends into your space? Contact Jill at jill@myjsbdesigns.com for all your interior design needs!
Research for content for this blog post was taken from the following articles in Elle Décor and Dexigner.