While the world of interior design is ever-evolving, one thing remains the same: interior designers always have their pulse of what’s new and exciting in terms of interior decor — what works and what doesn’t. Right now, these seasoned designers are extolling the virtues of both classic and modern design elements, emphasizing their enduring appeal and functionality. Some of the favored design motifs we are seeing today are fresh takes on concepts that have been revered for decades due to their ability to seamlessly adapt and enhance a variety of spaces. We are also seeing new, innovative ways to elevate a space. Here, TALD designers offer a curated exploration of these concepts, where tradition meets modernity.
1. Embrace natural materials
Manmade materials like quartz used for countertops, backsplashes and fireplace surrounds as well as engineered wood found in flooring are being replaced by more natural options. TALD designer Jessica Reynaud has seen a shift over the past year. More and more, people are “embracing more natural materials…zellige tile, stone and terracotta tiles,” Jessica mentioned in a recent Forbes article. And for good reason: Natural materials offer versatility that is appealing to designers (and homeowners) who like the idea of a piece that can blend in a style setting…classic to modern.
Susan Galvani of Spruce Interior follows this design philosophy, opting for rattan in many of her design projects. “It’s a lovely natural material that contributes warmth and texture,” Susan shared in a Real Simple article from April.
2. Be inspired by design elements inspired by the environment
Real or faux plants can really make a difference in a room’s design. Visually, they add texture and some color. They can also affect the vibe, giving off calm, serene signals to help reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being. But don’t worry if you don’t have a green thumb. TALD designer Summer Little of Prescott Design shared in a recent article in House Beautiful that “whether faux or real, plants and stems breathe life into any space.”
3. Select lighting sconces that shine in any room
While somewhat traditional, wall sconces are being used in a modern way in almost every room in the home: the kitchen, the living room, the bathroom and even the bedroom. Tami Wassong of Tami Wassong Interiors shared that in the bedroom, they help free up space on top of nightstands. But no matter what room they are placed in, sconces offer the benefit of essential focused lighting, creating a certain ambiance and even highlighting architectural or design elements within the room, such as artwork. Classic to contemporary, they come in a myriad styles to match any design aesthetic.
4. Try minimal decor as less is more
You don’t need a lot to make a design statement. Strategically placing a few key pieces in a space is much better than overcrowding. With too many accessories, you run the risk of the room feeling cluttered and having the design elements get “lost” in the room. The idea is to edit. “Opt for a few statement pieces that complement the overall aesthetic of the room without overwhelming it,” suggested TALD designer Audrey Scheck, of Audrey Scheck Design in a recent Real Simple article.
5. Use texture to create depth in design
Recently TALD designer Kate Spiro was featured in a Real Simple article in which she espoused the importance of using texture as a design element. "Using texture in your home helps to break up a flat space and prevent it from feeling one-dimensional," said Kate. "A space that lacks depth feels smaller and more confined. Layering in textures like soft nubby fabrics, natural elements, and incorporating mixed materials all add visual interest and depth."
6. Tell a story through art
Art for art’s sake is no more. Today, artwork should mean something. It is a way to tell a narrative about the homeowner, a way to portray their personality and style and/or give an actual account of a life event. Susan Galvani is a fan of using art in her designs. She suggested “bringing in artwork with depth to suggest space beyond the walls…”
7. Use colors to match the season
Seasons and geography can have an impact on design. As the warmer months approach, some designers naturally gravitate toward lighter, brighter colors and motifs. Or, they do so if designing for a project in a warmer climate. As TALD designer Rita Donahoe of Rita Chan Interiors recently told House Beautiful, “Moving into warmer months for me also means turning away from darker, heavier colors…and instead embracing more vibrant colors that reflect spring and summer floral blooms like white, yellow and green.”
8. Add design details that are personal
Today, most interior designers collaborate with their clients to help them to express their personal style through key design details. It’s something that Rita is seeing a lot more of, as she told House Beautiful: “I think more designers and individuals are starting to tell their own authentic stories, utilizing the colors and textures and materials that are truest to their clients' stories or lives. Perhaps the trend is just more personal design, and I love that. I want to see a variety of ideas, perspectives, and styles versus so much of the same look. It's so much more inspiring to see creations that are totally unique!"
TALD’s extensive network of interior designers spans diverse styles, innovative approaches and proven track records of transforming special spaces. From contemporary chic to timeless elegance, find the perfect aesthetic to match your sensibilities. Connect with the designers through virtual consultations or hire them for a full-scope project. Start by booking your interior consultation here.
9. Make easy upgrades, from wallpaper to window coverings
In the past, many have shied away from decorating or updating a rental apartment or making smaller changes to the homes they own. A design project doesn’t have to be a big one. More and more, people are realizing that they can make big changes to their decor through just a few small upgrades. For example, TALD designer Noelle Harvey of Sunday House suggests hanging fun wallpaper, upgrading window treatments or even just adding a few houseplants to change the look of a room. “Window treatments can have a much bigger impact than people expect,” Noelle told The Spruce. “I love a good curtain to add some warmth to a room, and this can be a super cost-effective way to change things up.”
Like these design ideas? Connect with a TALD designer today to see how they can be incorporated into your home.
