Now more than ever, the importance of Interior Design, and its benefits, have captured people’s attention. COVID-19 lockdowns have played a role in drawing people’s awareness to the ways their surroundings affect their mental and emotional wellbeing. We have seen a movement towards natural materials, a keenness to bring nature indoors, and other exciting trends that we believe will dominate the interior design industry over the next few years.

1. Bulbous, “puffy” furniture

Round forms and exaggerated shapes have become very popular, adding a touch of playfulness and fun to any space. Also known as neotenic design, this trend made headway after an exhibit at the A/D/O Design center in Brooklyn, New York. Neotenic design, or neotony, can be described as inorganic shapes which have a childlike quality. We are seeing “puffy” chairs, sofas, tables and lamps with rounded edges and tubular forms. This modern, minimalistic and young style has taken social media by storm, and we believe it is because the cuteness of these shapes stimulates a positive emotional response.

A look at the exhibit “Neotenic,” at A/D/O.  (Source: Architectural Digest)

JUMBO’s Neotenic lamp

• Fluidity and Open Spaces

Working from home for many months and through lockdowns has highlighted the importance of flexible homes and spaces. As working from home has become a daily part of our lives, working areas have had to co-exist with other living areas of the home. Formal separation of living spaces is also becoming less common, with mobile panels and integrated curtains being used to hide certain areas based on how the space is being used.

• Colour, Colour, Colour

Designers are embracing colour in bold and elegant ways. We are seeing a movement away from bright white, with central spaces such as bathrooms and corridors confidently incorporating colour. Colourful terrazzo is also making a comeback, and not only in flooring. We are seeing this material used in kitchens and furniture. 

Source: Design Milk

(Source: Arch Daily)

• Raw Materials

A movement towards more natural and organic spaces has encouraged the use of exposed wood and concrete. Architects and designers are using the depth and richness of wood and concrete to add warmth. Additionally, the durability, affordability and low maintenance qualities of these materials have made them very desirable.

Source: Home World Design

• Earthy tones

With clients and designers increasingly prioritising the environment and sustainability, earth colours and natural tones have become attractive options for designers and homeowners alike. We believe it is the positive psychological effects these tones have further motivated this. Green is associated with peace and nature, while earthy tones are both calming and grounding.

(Source: Behance)

Source: Home Designing

• Natural and Organic Furnishings

The use of natural and organic materials and textiles in the home has become increasingly popular. Designers are combining natural fibres such as wicker and rattan, often used in rugs, lighting and chairs, with more modern and contemporary furniture. This combination adds warmth, elegance, and cosiness.

Source: Anthropologie

Source: 1^stDibs

• Plants

To further add to the popularity of incorporating natural materials in our spaces, there has been a substantial interest and desire to include plants in living spaces. Biophilic Designs, or plants, have been closely associated with boosting mental health and emotional well-being, while bringing us closer to nature. People are becoming aware that different plants serve different purposes, and having them in both living and working spaces has become valuable.

Source: West Elm

We are excited to see how these trends will shape the design field in the next few years!