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Style and trend
By M.Chaves
My decoration trends forecast for 2024
When speaking of interior design, ‘style’ and ‘trend’ are two different yet related concepts.
‘Style’ refers to a set of distinctive features and elements that define the overall appearance of a space. This may be influenced by different eras, cultures or artistic movements. Talking about styles in interior design would take us more than a cup of coffee; however, let me mention a few of them such as classic, contemporary or industrial. Each style has its own distinctive features in terms of colors, materials, furniture, and accessories. Style is timeless!
On the other hand, ‘trend’ in interior design refers to changes in consumer preferences. Trends can be influenced by factors such as lifestyle, fashion, technology, advances in construction and materials, as well as social, political, and cultural changes. Trends catch on and fade quickly, however some may last longer.
Having cleared the difference between style and trend in interior design and why it is important to hire a good decorator to find the best style for a room, let’s proceed to review my forecast for decoration trends for 2024.
Minimalism and funcional design
Minimalism is a movement that transitioned from folk art to interior design in the 1920s, and today it is considered one of the most innovative styles. The focus on simplicity, visual cleanliness, and functionality continues to be a trend in interior design. The minimalist style divides the spaces based on needs, which means that each element must be functional. Some of its features include uncluttered spaces, clean lines and monochromatic colour palette; empty space is considered an important element!
I believe that minimalism will still be a trend in the world of interior design in 2024 for several reasons because, in addition to the search for functionality and contemporary aesthetics, it provides an atmosphere of calm and tranquility, fostering an environment that helps reduce stress and anxiety. With less clutter and visual distractions, people can focus more easily and enjoy a serene environment.
Furthermore, in a world increasingly aware of environmental impact, minimalism has become attractive thanks to its focus on sustainability. By reducing the number of objects and materials, overconsumption is minimized, then reuse and durability are encouraged. This brings us to what I expect will be the next interior design trend in 2024…
Sustainability and eco-awareness
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in awareness of environmental issues and the impact our actions have on the planet. As a result, many people are looking for ways to reduce their ecological footprint. By reducing energy consumption, people not only reduce their environmental impact, they can also realise long-term financial savings.
Growing concern for the environment has led to an increase in the adoption of sustainable materials and eco-friendly practices in the field of interior design. Choosing recycled materials (such as certified wood, cork or bamboo, instead of synthetic and non-renewable materials) can truly make a difference while crating healthier and cheaper spaces in the long term.
The optimization of energy use and an energetically sustainable house (maximising the use of natural light) or the incorporation of indoor plants are just a couple of examples of how sustainability can be integrated into design.
Sustainability in interior design is also related to the choice of a durable and timeless design. Instead of following trends, the aim is to create spaces that last over time and do not require frequent renovations. This means choosing quality materials, well-constructed furniture, and timeless design pieces that avoid wasting resources.
Do you need any other reason to believe that sustainability is here to stay?
Nordic style (with a twist)
Scandinavian design flourished at the same time as mid-century design, in the 1950s. They share several characteristics and it’s not uncommon to find mid-century design elements in Scandinavian-style homes. Characterised by simple, clean lines and natural tones, mid-century modern furniture, for example, perfectly embodies a Scandinavian-inspired minimalist aesthetic.
Scandinavian design has a focus on natural light and textures, a neutral colour palette combined with white, simple and clean lines that seeks to integrate nature into the interiors, open spaces and the functionality of the objects and the area.
I believe that the Scandinavian style will continue to be a trend during 2024 due to its minimalist approach, its connection with nature, its functionality and, most importantly, for the purpose of this article: its timeless aesthetics. These characteristics make it an attractive option for those looking to create calm and welcoming spaces.
However, I think that during 2024 there will be a little twist that will incorporate more vivid colours, it will be closer to the mid-century style and it will remind us of Piet Mondriaan’s cheerful paintings.
Modular and flexible design
Modular design is a modern way of decorating spaces. It is characterised by the use of modules, which are pieces of furniture that are pre-designed and assembled in a personalised way. This technique allows the creation of unique and adaptable designs to specific roles. The most common examples of these modules are furniture with storage spaces, armchairs, seats and shelving systems. The increase for adaptability and versatility in interior spaces has fueled the trend towards modular furniture and systems that can be easily reconfigured based on changing needs. This allows to maximize the use of space and adapt to different functions.
I predict that the modular style in interior design will be a trend next year precisely due to its flexibility and adaptability, the optimisation of space, the possibility of creating a personalised design, the ease of transport and assembly, and their sustainability. These characteristics make it an attractive option for those looking for versatile, practical and personalized spaces.
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Final thoughts:
Technological advances have been integrated into homes creating smart spaces and this trend has become increasingly common. “Home robotics” is here to stay. From home automation systems to smart lighting to cutting-edge appliances, technology plays an important role in how we design and experience interior spaces.
The trends also point to the search for our essence, to the connection with nature, to explore textures that transmit something more than a rewarding moment… to walk barefoot and enjoy a fresh coffee in the morning. We seek to reaffirm our commitment to the planet without giving up today’s comforts.
In addition, we seek to create personalised areas that include spaces to relax and that allow us to “be connected with the world” from our “bubble”, hand in hand with all the comforts of the 21st century.
Would you say this is a style or a trend?
Mauricio C.