Bring Outdoors In:

Biophilic design, though a relatively recent term represents an age-old practice rooted in our dependence on nature. It involves artfully incorporating natural elements into your interiors to foster a connection with the outdoors. Include plants and natural materials like wood, stone, and water elements to add tranquility and promote a sense of well-being. Enhance this effect by merging interior and exterior finishes to promote a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. Think of integrating greenery, daylight, water features, and organic shapes in architecture, furnishings, patterns, and finishes.

 image: @danedeaner        image:@smcinteriordesign 

Mix Old with New:

Minimal and classic interiors evolve to become a mix of eras. In essence, it is all about blending the best of both. This supports a circular economy with upcycled vintage pieces alongside, modern and sculptural designs for a curated timeless feel. Consider modern furniture paired with traditional rugs, panelling, metallic accents, and abstract art for a chic interior design that’s full of character. Follow this link to SMC Interior Design’s product page for a mix of locally made furniture options. https://smcdesign.biz/products/

      image: @fourhandsfurniture     image: @smcinteriordesign    

Embrace Color:

Forgo neutrals – bold vibrant hues are taking over! Paint industry research and fashion trends point to jewel tones, both vibrant and muddy and brighter hues in light and airy pastels. Blues inspired by twilight and the ocean are favored over green, while green appears more neutral. Neutrals are still in the picture, but they are warming up, think butter and blush tones. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the transformative power of colour in your interior design!

                           

Create Versatile Spaces:

Make sure your home’s design works hard! Flexibility is key to ensuring ease of transitions from day to night. For example, a spare bedroom may double as a home office, media room or hobby space. A dining area could be furnished to masquerade as a library, homework station or games centre. Multifunctional millwork like adjustable built-ins, sliding doors or room dividers, storage benches, wall mounted shelving, fold down desks and Murphy beds all support dual purposes. Equally consider modular furniture, pull-up coffee tables, nesting tables, stacking chairs, convertible sofas, daybeds, adjustable lighting and baskets. With some planning you can design your space to evolve and grow alongside changing needs.

                                           2 images: @smcinteriordesign   

Tech-savvy Living:

From voice-controlled assistants to intuitive home automation, integrating smart technology into your interiors is evolving. You don’t have to be tech-savvy to enjoy its benefits. These common home systems can accommodate user preferences, provide peace of mind, conserve resources, money and much more! Smart TVs, lighting, thermostats, door locks, security options, pet and lawn care, kitchen appliances, the list is growing.

 image: Lutron                                                                                              

And voilà, a brief overview of the interior design trends for 2024. To summarize: “embrace nature, blend eras, invite boldness, maximize space, and integrate smart technology.” Whether you’re a seasoned interior design enthusiast or just starting out, there’s never been a better time to get creative. This is the year to make your home truly your own! For another example follow this link to an Architectural Digest post. https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/interior-design-trends-2024