You guys know I’m not into trends.
I like to think of myself as a sort of design rules rebel. When I see a design style or design element start to trend, I try to stay away from it. (I’ve been caught slipping a few times, though – those doggone fiddle fig trees GIVE ME LIFE! I’ve killed about 4 already.)
Now that’s me, but I do find it interesting to see how things start trending in interiors.
Go to 10 design blogs right now (well, after you’ve left this one, of course) and I’m sure at least 7 or 8 of them have posted about what’s trending in 2016. So, although I WAS going to write about what’ll be popping in 2016, this whole “rebel” thing got me thinking…
How about I talk about the things that I want to see in 2016 and not necessarily what I think will be trending. Mmkay?
Rose Gold Metals
I’m crazy about rose gold and there’s this pinkish-copper that I’ve been seeing around the web that has been making me design crazy – but in a good way. I just want to use it everywhere. If I was into the ultra-feminine spaces, I would have this color as the main metal in the room. Accessories… hardware… everything! But, the room doesn’t have to be “feminine” to have a bit of rose gold. Any room can use a little pink.
The thing is, this pinkish shade will actually be trending anyway, because Rose Quartz was chosen as one of Pantone’s 2016 Colors of the Year. It’s not the exact shade of pink, but I think that because of this new Color of the Year, all shades of pink will be making a comeback. Yes!!!
Formal Dining Rooms
This might seem like a total contradiction of me (if you’ve been following my blog for some time), because I don’t usually like fancy-smancy, just-for-decoration, don’t-touch-nothing, you-break-it-you-buy type of rooms. And, to me, that’s what a lot of formal dining rooms look like. But… I’m actually ready to embrace these rooms. I’ve done a bit of growing up and I think I can actually conduct myself like an adult in a formal dining room. I THINK (emphasis on think) I can actually enjoy this space. So, I’m KIND OF (emphasis on kind of) looking forward to seeing these rooms.
I think.
No, I’m ready. Seriously. I ready. I’m really looking forward to seeing more formal dining rooms with beautifully set tables, gorgeous linens, amazing buffets, great lighting, the whole experience.
I think.
Just don’t be surprised if this changes.
Fancy Cocktail Parties
Now this one, I know I’m ready for. There’s been a huge surge in fancy parties these last few years. If you go on Pinterest, you’ll see hundreds of images of gorgeous tables set for small parties, fancy cocktail recipes, and DIY party décor. I’m all for the fancy parties!! OMG, I’m excited just thinking about how I’m going to have my own fun, cocktail parties this year. Don’t worry, you guys are invited!!
Colorful Spaces
Ughhhhh!! I’ve been seeing way too many white, brown, and gray rooms on my Pinterest and Instagram feeds lately. I like those spaces, too, but I NEED to see more color this year. Neutral is becoming an epidemic. Neutral with a “pop of color” has been trending way too long. This year I want to see color with a “pop of neutral”!!. Mmmkay? I want to see lots of color. BOLD color. Unusual color schemes. And, unique colorful design elements.
[disclaim]contact me if you need me to design a special, colorful space for you![/disclaim]Ultra-Sleek, Techy Appliances
Now this one won’t be the most accessible thing on my list, because the more tech-y the appliance, the more expensive it. But, they’re so cool and beautiful, ermygawd!! These new appliances (at least the better models) are super energy efficient, ultra-quiet, sleek, and have beautiful LED lighting with fun electrical controls.
Eclectic Spaces with Unique Decorative Accents
I feel like the word “eclectic” is used way too freely. I mean, sure, it’s a very convenient word to use when you can’t pinpoint the design style. And, I definitely define MY design style as eclectic, but I think the rooms that I see with the same label aren’t so much eclectic as much as they are just “undefined” (if that makes sense). To me, eclectic rooms aren’t hard to figure out. Eclectic spaces mix “the old” with “the new”, the modern with the traditional, the golds with the silvers, the hards with the softs (stay with me, guys)… you get the drift. What eclecticism is not: a big, giant, mess full of stuff thrown together with no real thought.
In an eclectic space, you’ll see repetition, great scale and proportion, layered textures, and cohesive colors and patterns. Yes, there may be some mismatch elements, but together the room will be balanced.
This year, I want to see more eclectic spaces with fun, unique design elements. Like really cool wallpaper. Or, an amazing sofa upholstered in an unexpected fabric. Or, a super cool sculpture. I’m drooling just thinking about this space.
More concentration on function over beauty
Now this one, you guys know about me. I have had so many people reach out to me for design services that have purchased stuff that are uncomfortable, don’t fit, or not useful. There are a lot of cheap, uncomfortable, but pretty sofas being sold right now. There are so many super cute pieces of furniture that are falling apart a few months later… you’re probably looking at one right now. (Don’t hate me!!) I’m sure that $20 pillow looked great when you bought it, but it’s probably stiff as a board and not very cuddly.
(I’m all about that cuddly pillow life. Check out my shop!)
This year, I really want to see more ultra-comfy, ultra-functional rooms that are also beautiful. I know it’s possible! Say it with me guys: DON’T BUY ACCESSORIES (OR ANYTHING ELSE), UNTIL I’VE GOT A PLAN AND A BUDGET! Now, write that on a sticky note and put it where you’ll see it. I’m only telling you this, because I hate to see you waste money. This year, I’d like to see homes with sensible floor plans and easy to maneuver furniture layouts.
More Global Design Elements
I’m an African wax print fanatic, so you’ll see some new pillows in my shop in these colorful, graphic patterns. This year I want to see lots of African wax prints and other ethnic design elements. I want to see large Ethnic photography, sculptures, textiles, and globally inspired interiors. I want to see rooms that tell stories of world travels and cultures. To me, these types of rooms are the most interesting.
So, I am dying to know… what are you guys looking forward to see in interiors this year?
Till next time,
Bridget says
Loving all of these ideas! Rose gold is so soft, yet glam. An eclectic bedroom is what I was shooting for them I got frustrated and thought about going traditional, but this article has inspired me to stay with eclectic! #BLMgirl
Whitney says
Yay! So glad I could help I love how much character eclectic rooms have.
Mich says
This -> More concentration on function over beauty!
Love that tip of yours. We will start focusing on those multi-functional stuff than items with little to no use at all. Overall, great tips! Will PIN and SHARE this so I can get back to it whenever I need an idea or inspiration. Thanks for sharing this Whitney!
Mich recently posted…10 Best Public High Schools in Michigan
Whitney says
Thanks so much, Mich! I’m so glad you enjoyed this post!
Starkey says
Great suggestion! Budgets are important especially when you are shopping for your home. I definitely would like to see more signature pieces in 2016.
Whitney says
Definitely!
Darnetha | ChippaSunshine says
I am a firm believer that a room has to be functional first. As a small home dweller that is key. Tell me you saw the new pedestal washers, I must have one in my life!
Whitney says
Yes, I have! They’re gorgeous! My next apartment will have washer/dryer hook up, so I can get me some high tech units! I love cool appliances!
K. Elizabeth (YUMMommy) says
I’m obsessed with fireplaces. I love stone fireplaces in particular. We’ve been house hunting and that’s the top feature on my must-have list. I’m also a fan of formal dining rooms as well.
K. Elizabeth (YUMMommy) recently posted…Thankful Thursday
Whitney says
I love fireplaces, too!! I’m a crazy person, though, so I’m just paranoid when it comes to fireplaces and carpet, because otherwise I would have gotten an electric one for my apartment. HEHE!
Lisa H. says
Whitney, I have a thing for gold…but especially rose gold! I’d love to start incorporating more of it into my home. It gives off such a classic glam effect!
Whitney says
yes, Lisa, I agree!! I love rose gold and definitely feel that it’s so glam.
Alaya says
I love the Global Designs and Function Over Beauty. I’ve shifted more to function over beauty, which makes my life happy and I’ve all for global designs.
Whitney says
Yes, Alaya! There can be beauty in functional design. I wish everyone stopped wasting their money on low-quality pieces and instead choose to invest in pieces that will stand the test of time. Those items can be beautiful, too.