The
New Year brings the perfect opportunity to start out with a fresh
interior update. With the right accessories, nearly any currently
owned furnishing can be reworked, giving it a new look. This of
course can save a lot of money. After the festivities of the Holidays, who would
not want that? Below are the hot, up and coming looks.
When
I first learned of this year's interior design trends, all I could
think of was “yes!” The coming year’s interior design trends
focus on creating a soothing and ultra relaxing home. Less is
definitely more in 2016. The implementation of natural elements with
clean lines create balance. Muted colors and a touch of ethnicity
prevent a sterile environment and add a welcoming atmosphere. What is
great about these trends is that there is still room to change the
look of a room without spending a lot of money. All it takes is a
little creativity.
Natural
elements are big this year and there is something for every budget.
Showy floral arrangements give way to simple statements. Think of a
handful of sticks in a simple glass vase. Rock gardens, wood bowls
and sand all play key parts in bringing nature inside. A twig
lampshade or oversize rattan basket to hold items are also ways to
bring the beauty of nature inside. If a remodel is on the schedule,
satin or matte finishes on counter tops are replacing high gloss
granite. Counter edges are rough to expose the natural beauty but
with just enough sanding to prevent clothing from snagging. Flooring
is more durable and easier to maintain in satin finishes instead of
high gloss.
Another
way to bring nature inside is through the use of indoor gardens. Live
plants not only clean the air inside the home by making oxygen, but
the appearance of live plants adds a touch of serenity to the
environment. If an entire garden is not possible, try grouping
several pots together to create the illusion of a garden. The key to
doing this is to make a statement with the use of live plants but
still have an element of space. There are a lot of low maintenance
plants to choose from to keep from becoming overburdened.
Combining
function with beauty is another trend this coming year. This not only
saves space by lessening the amount of clutter, but offers more bang
for the buck. Leather ottomans that double as storage bins are one
example. Sofabed hybrids are another. In the kitchen, maximizing
cupboard space by adding organizers, spice racks or a lazy Susan help
to get the counter cleared off while still keeping them within reach.
The
coming year brings a calming change to the home and with it comes a
change in the color palate. Colors are muted and soothing. The
vibrant tones of last year give way to colors that are serene and
relaxing. Any preferred color is acceptable as long as it is muted.
Slate blue, plums, sage, softer teals, warm honey and earthy rusts
are all part of creating a relaxing home. If only one interior update
is possible, toning down the color would be it.
In
keeping with the Zen like mood of interiors, less is definitely more.
Clear out clutter. Free up a bit of wall space. Keep furniture lines
clean and window coverings simple. The less that the eyes need to
focus on, the easier it becomes to relax after a chaotic day. There
is less to clean, less to break and generally less to worry about.
This alone can be all that’s needed to create a comforting and less
stressful home.
Which
style do you prefer? I can't make up my mind. I think the beauty of
this year's interior design trends is the simplicity. It really does help in creating an almost spa-like feel to a home. But I also love the idea of bringing nature inside. Regardless of your favorite look, your house is yours and making it unique to you is what makes it home. - Angelica
Mordant
