1. Hyper-nature
The trend for connecting with nature and following a more sustainable lifestyle is set to continue into 2024… and, according to Helen, it’s bigger than ever.
“Designers are blending fantasy and reality using existing floral and biophilic patterns, reimagined in exaggerated forms and textures to enhance the connection between outdoor and interior spaces,” Helen said. “The use of fantastical florals and fauna is a great way to enhance your home and tie it to the outdoors, while providing the uplifting and restorative benefits nature can bring.”
You can bring this into your home through upscaled tropical motifs in wallpaper, artwork and textiles.
“Don’t just focus on pattern, take inspiration from intricate biophilic textures and forms for dramatic effect,” Helen suggested. “A key trend emerging from the recent interior design trade shows is exaggerated and oversized lighting in textured floral forms.”
Read more about lighting trends for 2024.
2. Fun meets functional design
It’s important to remember to have fun when you’re planning your interiors and to balance style and practicality.
“Just because an object is functional doesn’t mean it has to be boring,” Helen said. “Simplistic designs can be elevated by adding an unapologetic injection of colour. Focus on the small and usually overlooked items, like shelving, lamps and even everyday kitchen accessories to add playful pops of colour in dopamine enhancing vibrant tones.
“Bringing colour into your home is wonderful for its mood-boosting and positivity-inducing effect. Be brave and expressive with pops of electric blue, a tone which was celebrated throughout the recent interior design trade shows. Contrast this with other bright tones to create and overall feeling of joy.”
3. Soft Glamour The glam trend is evolving to become softer, cosier and more comforting.
“You can achieve a subtle but seriously high-end look in your home by using interesting wall coverings in textured and natural neutrals. This can create a high-end boutique hotel feel,” Helen suggested. “Focus on quality linens and textiles in sheen and matte fibres that encourage touch for a relaxing cocooning environment. Pair with statement pendant lights in ribbed glass and raw brass for a more muted and overall, less glitzy look.”
Read our tips on styling your bedroom.
4. Restorative Darks
Trend forecasters WGSN have highlighted the intriguing tone of Future Dusk – a moody hue sitting between blue and purple – as a key colour for 2024.
“Future Dusk creates a sense of mystery and escapism with themes of transition, making it a perfect tone to layer with nuanced near-blacks for an otherworldly and futuristic impact,” Helen said.
She recommends pairing it with, reflective, metallic, or subtle iridescent surfaces to provide a mesmerising space age effect. It can also be used in investment pieces like occasional chairs and statement accessories.
“While dark tones may not be for everyone, layering up with neutrals will undoubtedly elevate the luxury levels in your home,” Helen said.
5. Dulux colour of the year
The Dulux colour of the year for 2024 is a very versatile near-neutral – Sweet Embrace. Dulux describe it as a “delicate and optimistic colour, inspired by the softness of feathers and evening clouds” and have pitched it as creating “a place where you belong”. The paint specialists say it’s a “warm and practical standalone shade” that’s also a great foundation colour, ideal for pairing with other shades.
Helen added: “The Dulux colour of the year for 2024 is a versatile and soothing shade. It’s perfect as a stand-alone colour or partnered up with tranquil tones of blues and greens to create a calming atmosphere or paired with warm baked earth and ochre tones for an upbeat home.”
If you’re planning a new start in a new home in 2024, discover Redrow’s Readymade homes.
