Touchy feely, blue hues and rumble in the jungle; the top three trends for interiors this spring
It’s easy to follow the crowd in interiors, and play it safe with decor that looks the business but doesn’t really excite. If you’re yearning to break loose and willing to experiment, however, there are some terrific trends this year. You could be adventurous and go a little wild - Africa’s the hot destination influencing our taste for 2017 - or stay cool and dip into blues, which have the power to transform any space.
If that doesn’t float your boat, go tactile and embrace ‘touch me’ textures. Don’t feel restricted to strictly replicating one look either; it’s actually more fun to make a style your own by using elements from each in a unique mix.
There are no rules - after all, it’s your home, and you’ll enjoy it more if it really reflects your taste...
URBAN JUNGLE
Exploring the world through our homes is all the rage this year. Africa’s currently the favourite decor destination, and its signature palette of warm earthy shades works so well with pared-back contemporary interiors.
“This is a modern style inspired by a global tradition. Our Tribe collection draws inspiration from key elements of modern African design, from bold prints to intricate embroidery and ornate carvings,” says Sue Roberts, design director at House of Fraser.
“This enduring trend celebrates a nomadic spirit in design, reinterpreting traditional making methods and pattern with a contemporary crafted mood. Combine tribal influences, such as intricate basket weaves and hand-embroidered cushions, with handcrafted ceramics, tactile finishes and native geo prints.”
DECOR TIP: Go wild with bold jungle prints, or tame it down with a subtle approach to a colour scheme and choose a palette of dusky browns, luscious greens and rusty oranges reminiscent of an African savannah.
MOODY BLUES
Blues still rule in interiors, despite competition from green, the hot newcomer making its name on the decor block.
“Blues are making another comeback this season, with the resurgence of beautiful cobalt and azure shades, paired with glamorous metallic accents for a bold luxe look,” says Paula Taylor, colour and trends specialist at Graham & Brown.
“They’re so versatile and easy on the eye and suit any look, from traditional to ultra modern. For a more subtle refresh, mix with bright whites and hints of red or green for a spring update. Designer Kelly Hoppen’s Ikat wallpaper [£23 a roll], in a vivid Prussian blue, is perfect for a classic style statement and works with both neutral shades as well as a richer colour palette.”
DECOR TIP: Dulux’s Colour of the Year is a greeny ocean blue, Denim Drift: Easycare Matt Emulsion, £26.48 for 2.5L.
TOUCHY FEELY
Texture is the buzzword for interiors in 2017, and it’s all about mixing matt finishes with gloss, and rough-hewn with sleek, streamlined pieces.
“This year, the emphasis within people’s homes will be on on an intensely natural environment. Textures and tones will reflect the beauty of nature, with a few modern touches thrown in for emphasis,” says Stacey Sibley, creative director at Alexander James Interior Design.
“Think rough, natural woods for everything from floorboards to tables to shutters, textured glass and ceramics for lighting, and then accessorise with matte glazed dinnerware, wooden servingware and earthenware bowls.
“A soft palette of greys, light browns and whites tinged with pink will complement a scheme which celebrates the grain of wood and stone and the beauty of craftsmanship.”
DECOR TIP: Graphic art, whose themes focus on nature’s textures - from blades of grass to pebbles - is another way to embrace this look.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here