2023 Décor Trends to keep or toss

As we enter our second year free of lockdowns, the significant changes we've experienced as a society have significantly affected how we view interior design. While 2019-era designs focused on hard lines and industrial finishes, a wave of optimism and bright eccentric hues encourages us to lighten up a bit.

We explore the design trends we will most likely see a resurgence or reimagining of while scrutinising the elements that no longer seem quite as relevant.
 

A suffusion of woodgrains

Rustic design is seeing a rapid comeback in home interior trends. Homeowners have seen the benefits of adding natural elements into their spaces for quite some time. Hardwood and dark wood creates depth and brings warmth into the home while imbuing one's space with a sense of intimacy.
 

Toss it - a reduction of sterile, shiny elements 

Inversely, minimalist design will take a back seat for some as homeowners may no longer see the appeal in cold, industrial, and clinical spaces. The popular new catchphrase is "Lagom", a Swedish term that translates into "not too little, not too much" and can be applied to decor and lifestyle.  

While we are drawn to more earthy tones, one can create an infusion between metallic and atmospheric natural tones. Aged metals combine well with organic finishes as long as the design theme does not impose a sterile aesthetic.

Keep it - A resurgence of pantries

Function and practicality are essential home design elements; while this will never change, the application may evolve over time. Coming from the pandemic and limited ability to travel, homeowners quickly realised just how important maximising space and organisation was. A well-designed and organised pantry defines how we organise our meals, plan our shopping lists and categorise our food groups.

Toss it - good riddance to fast, cheaply-made furniture

Whether it was due to the pandemic or a more conscious desire for finer furnishing, the demand for cheap, throwaway, and in-the-moment furniture has subsided drastically. Mass-produced pieces, especially those horrid white plastic outdoor chairs, no longer retain the appeal they once did in the noughties.

Keep it - A sustainable approach to furniture

Considering our environmental impact and minimising harm is an essential design rule. Rather than throwing out old and sometimes broken furniture, consider repurposing certain pieces to breathe new life into their style and functionality. This inexpensive design choice allows you to personalise your space while evoking a sense of nostalgia.
 

Keep it - statement lighting and fixtures 

2023 is about favouring individualism and making a statement with your decorative pieces.
Advancements in lighting technology have made it simpler to experiment with design structure and colouration to customise your home interior easily.

Toss it - neutral colour palettes are boring

Safe neutrals no longer retain the appeal they once did. Bold, enticing, eccentric, and saturated hues now dominate the colour swatch. Expect a return of rouge and striking magentas, a vibrant pink-red, as indicated by Pantone's colour of the year, Viva Magenta!

We recommend starting with a few throws or cushions to try it out if it all seems too exuberant.

Keep it - Embrace Coastal Granddaughter's carefree approach

Vlogger and Tiktoker Coastal Granddaughter, inspired by the Coastal Grandmother aesthetic,  went from an average of 10 million views to over 100 million after posting various videos of their carefree approach to interior design. This new vibey design trend focuses on the crisp, clean and neutral with liberal use of natural elements such as linen, rattan and jute. It also sees a reimagining of traditional floral and paisley designs. It maximises its appeal by enlarging prints and incorporating scintillating tertiaries such as sage green and terra-cotta, a curious rustic appeal transition.

Read our previous article here: Investec Cape Town Art Fair 2023

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