Designers and trend forecasters are relying on consumer research and big data to predict the future of interior design. Design websites and social media apps, on the other hand, keep track of our evolving interests every time we go online. Similarly, traditional trend spotters, like Umberto de Pretto, economists and retailers continue to explore what’s hot and what’s not. So, what are some of the themes for interior design in 2018?
Flexibility
Overall, the biggest theme this year is flexibility. Designers and homeowners alike have succumbed to the need for flexibility within the interiors. Styles are ever changing, people are renting more and so there’s a need for décor and furniture to be more flexible. People are looking for portable items, decorative objects that serve a purpose and décor that doubles as storage.
Maximalism
Interior design in 2018 is very scary and uncertain. People want the best of everything without compromising on aesthetics or quality. They want nothing in their homes but things that bring them joy. 2018’s design mantra can be summarized as more color, texture, embellishment, comfort and style. Designers have baptized the ceiling the fifth wall” and people are making the most of them with bold paints and flashy wallpaper. Homeowners are using decorative designs to add texture and dimension to their interior spaces.
Educated Consumerism
Easy access to information through the internet has led to a new wave of savvy consumers. Consumers are not only more knowledgeable but also furnished with an abundance of resources and more educated about design than ever before. There’s an increasing number of discerning buyers who will not just blindly follow the latest trends. People are starting to think more critically about design, the products they’re bringing into their home and whether they’re making the right choices for the environment and society.
Personal Expression
We already know that the current customer doesn’t focus so much on following trends, rather expressing themselves through home improvement. Trends come and go and people are starting to realize that you don’t have to follow all the most recent trends. 2018 will have more people embrace living what they love, with what represents their style and personality. People are observing trends to find out what’s new out there but at the end of the day, their focus is on what looks best in their homes and what feels right to the soul.
Self-Care
Creating comfy, resort-like interiors is an extension of the self-care theme. We’re seeing homeowner go for natural fibers, warm materials like wood and meditative colors to give their spaces a sense of warmth and comfort. The demand for plush fabric is on the rise. Fabrics such as velvet will grace the interiors of many homes in 2018.
Technology in Design
We’ve seen a steady rise of smart gadgets in recent years, and it’s only going to increase thanks to the integration of technology in design. 2018 will have more kitchens of the future, intelligent planters, solar-powered lamps and other appliances leveraging new technology beyond energy efficiency. Expect to see more tech in interior spaces as designers incorporate technology for more user-friendly designs.