Last year we eased back into normalcy. And these trends dominated when it came to home décor … ones that will continue to grow throughout 2023.
Before we get wrapped up in the go, go, go of living, we should take some time to pause and reflect on some of the design and décor trends that shaped last year, trends that will strongly influence our décor decisions this year. After two and a half years of being masked up and locked down, 2022 was the year of easing back into normalcy. We unmasked, and started to venture back to the office, shops and schools and even gathered again with family and friends. Despite things being business as usual, we are only now beginning to properly understand the real impact that the pandemic has had on our psyche and in turn, our design and décor choices. Interior designer, behaviour specialist, and owner of a design studio, Kim Williams explains how many of the design and décor trends have been influenced by our most recent experiences.
The value of zoning
Lots of us are still working from home this year, which has crafted a new appreciation for space, the privilege of having it and a deeper desire to connect better with it. Larger families especially require separate living areas to work and recharge, as well as a communal place to energise and socialise, and a dedicated corner to play.
This dilemma has forced designers to look at zoning areas off to create better fluidity, energy, and balance. Both commercial and residential property owners are investing in ways to make their spaces flow and work better, not just because it creates a better user experience but because it is likely to increase property values.
The return of the dining room
A separate dining room that flows off either the living or kitchen area has made a huge comeback. During the pandemic, the dinner table was the centre of the home … doubling up as a classroom, office desk and even a place for family entertainment. Now, it is a vehicle to bring loved ones together, especially during the summer entertaining season – a space that facilitates easy conversation and connection around a delicious meal.
Well-designed dining rooms can create an ambiance and atmosphere that are both casual and formal depending on the occasion. The most engaging tables are rectangular or round with comfortable, simple-to-clean seating and enough space for easy movement. Lighting is functional, with elevated table scaping used to ramp up the mood and feel.
Health and healing
There has been a huge emphasis on mental health and wellness, with our homes acting as a tranquil sanctuary to escape from the chaos and confusion of the outside world. Our living space can have a dramatic impact on our well-being and energy, promoting a desire for not just peace and privacy but also grounding, healing, and spirituality.
There has been a strong move towards warm and natural palettes that are soothing but also mystical and engaging, with the addition of comforting fabrics and textures to add layers of interest. We have also seen a lot of deepened healing – which focuses on balancing masculine and feminine tones to ensure that the interior space is meditatively balanced and promotes healing for all.
Reconnecting with nature
Our desire for sustainability and eco-conscious design has been huge and will probably continue well into 2023. It has been amazing to witness the massive move towards recycling and repurposing. A lot of the younger generation, especially, have been bringing old memories from past generations to life by adding their own stamp and aesthetic to create beautiful quilts and wall hangings, for example.
Being conscious of our planet is not just about opting for greener materials in our décor choices but also bringing mindfulness into the entire design process. In these warmer summer months, the trend of opening the indoor and outdoor space is more apparent. Not only does this provide a wonderful connection to nature but it also extends our living space, adds more natural light, and allows for fresh air and the sounds of flowing water to breeze through the entire home.
Less is more
After having had to wear masks for so long, it made sense that we had a greater desire to be heard and seen during 2022. And although we saw a greater emphasis on the embracing of different voices, cultures, and individual interests when it comes to décor choices, it is important to note that the minimalist movement is still very much in vogue.
Less is always more, as is the yearning to shop for locally sourced materials, such as rattan, wood, stone, and weaves. Glass objects and translucent furniture also help reflect light and engage the eye.
Looking ahead
This is going to be the year for exploring depth, especially when it comes to deepened healing. These trends will continue, but with greater consideration of the impact they have on us and our surroundings.
And after being cocooned in a grey world for so long, we should also look forward to the return of bright colours as the world bursts back to life.
Details: kimwilliams.co.za or Facebook and Instagram @kim_williams_design.
