For generations, interior design trends have been used as aesthetic aids in our attempts to find some sort of inner peace.
Consider the ancient Chinese art of feng shui, in which spatial placement matches up with energy flow, or wabi-sabi, the Japanese practice of accepting imperfections, or ancient Rome’s deep affection for using earth-tone colors and geometric shapes to mimic nature’s harmony.
“There is more and more research that reveals the direct effect that our houses have, not only on our emotions but on our general health and well-being,” Timothy Corrigan, interior designer of Timothy Corrigan Inc., says. Is it any surprise, then, that the leading interior design trends in 2022, our third straight year in a worldwide pandemic, will once again center on helping us feel emotionally at ease?
“We have been forced to slow down and spend time in our homes—this fuels a tremendous desire to truly build an environment that represents what it is we are feeling both visually and psychologically.” “Recently, we’ve been paying special attention to how design can produce energy,” says Erick Garcia of the Los Angeles-based design studio Maison Trouvaille. “All of this thrills me tremendously—allowing the senses to drive a space.”
And, more specifically, what are our senses drawn to in 2022? Some of the world’s finest interior designers have some suggestions. For starters, some foresee a surge in the enveloping, earthy color of brown, which will be seen in textiles such as leather and even terracotta walls (how Ancient Rome of us). Others report an increase in nature-inspired surfaces and ornaments, such as marbles and mushroom shapes, while others indicate that their customers can’t get enough of soft, curving furniture. “Clients are looking for warmth, comfort, and airiness—this appears to be a common thread between current and prior projects,” Garcia explains. “Who wouldn’t want to create a home that feels like a warm hug?” says Athena Calderone, founder of Eyeswoon.
Then there’s the common fact that our houses have evolved into the primary settings of our lives: where we work, sleep, and socialize. Every single little thing, everything that surrounds us, must serve a function. Perhaps it’s a technical one—Kelly Wearstler promotes the growth of beneficial home technology—or an expressive one, such as Mark D. Sikes‘ vision of more travel-inspired interiors. “We truly want to evaluate what we love, what we want to live with every day and for years to come,” Roman and Williams’ Robin Standefer adds.
Top Interior Design Trend of 2022
Shades of Brown
“Chocolate browns, camels, and caramels—there has been so much color and pattern in the last few years, especially pastels, that I think consumers will be ready for a palette cleanser.” – Mark D. Sikes
“Chocolate brown has returned!” And as a ’70s baby, I’m overjoyed. However, this time, chocolate brown will not only work with orange shag (cue my childhood living room), but will also work nicely with other hues as a deep neutral for rich, elegant, and timeless interiors.” Danielle Colding Design -Danielle Colding
Nature-Inspired Surfaces and Objects
“With more time spent indoors than ever before, we’re all looking for ways to enhance our bond with nature.” This has sparked a rebirth in natural materials, such as stoneware, terracotta, marble, and travertine, which are being utilized in everything from backsplashes to bathtubs, furniture, and ornamental objects. The raw, porous, flawed quality of these organic materials provides depth, personality, and aesthetic fascination while also emulating the relaxing, healing ambience of nature. This desire to reconnect with nature has also created an interest in huge trees grown in the United States, ranging from the exquisite black olive to Southern magnolias.” –Athena Calderone
Sculptural and Curved Furniture
“A curved shape is seen unconsciously as safe, pleasant, and welcoming.” With everyone feeling a little precious, I believe softer curves and angles will continue to be a prominent trend in furniture and architecture in 2022.”-Sarah Sherman Samuel
Elevated Outdoor Furniture
“As we spend more time socializing outside, outdoor furniture will become more sophisticated and elegant, and our patios will become real extensions of our indoor décor.” –Timothy Corrigan & Co.
Dual-Purpose Rooms
“As we face another year with COVID variations, our living rooms continue to serve as our work rooms, which has become the new normal.” The kitchen remains the conference room, and The Farmhouse Table has replaced the boardroom table.” –Kathryn M. Ireland
