One of the more enjoyable aspects of making an East Bay house a home is the design and decor of a dwelling. It’s fun to see what’s popular now as well as what might just be emerging from the world’s top interior designers.
Design is cyclical and continuously draws from the past. It can be both fun and interesting to look back and bring forward elements of earlier styles (although we can skip plastic sofa covers and carpeted bathrooms). This can help inform an interior design concept, which is the central idea around which all the elements of a design scheme are fashioned, bringing cohesion to the whole project. Here are some intriguing recent trends:
Biophilic design, which has been at the forefront of interior design for some time, describes rooms that are filled with greenery and natural materials like rattan light fixtures. It offers a way for people to connect with the natural world in their everyday settings. The ever popular “indoor-outdoor flow” of a house complements and enhances this style.
The Hellinstic revival was last popular in the 70s and 80s and has come back into fashion. The style reflects the opulence and strength of Greek deities like Aphrodite-inspired fabrics to Corinthian columns.
Another trend that’s surfaced post-pandemic is the Emotional Escape Room. It can be designed to offer singular aesthetic enjoyment, a safe retreat or even a place to vent. If your home has an unused room, alcove, or closet, you might be able to customize that space to promote a healthy psyche.
For those with the instinct to collect, there is Cluttercore. This is not an excuse to hoard, but a design style where beloved objects can be gathered and displayed. A curated collection of your favorite things can offer comfort and consolation. It’s not messy, just cluttered and may also be a response to the recent ubiquity of Minimalism.
One common theme in design today is the use of Curvilinear shapes. Curves and rounded shapes give a sense of continuity, creating a calming and flowing atmosphere where sharp lines and edges are softened. Arches, in both architecture and furniture design, bring peace of mind. According to many psychologists, circles radiate reassurance and security. They also make the space feel more welcoming, as circles are innately associated with happiness.
Your design choices are often a reflection of your personal style, making your home a place of comfort, safety and familiarity. Regardless of personal preference, we are happy to help you assemble resources to bring your interior design dreams to life. Just ask.
*Photos from Open Homes Photography, Peter Lyons Photography, Hopscotch Interactive and Aerial Canvas
